British Military Issue LONGINES "Greenlander" Wrist Watch. c.1952

SOLD

Large, robust, stainless steel, British military issue Longines wrist watch dating from around 1952. This very sought after model is known within watch collecting circles as the "Greenlander" as it was originally believed to have been specially developed to be used by the British armed forces taking part in the British North Greenland Expedition between 1952 & 1954. However, it is now accepted that this is not likely to be the case. (click on link below for the 'Military Watch Resource' forum discussion).

Large, heavy stainless steel case with screw on back. Strong fixed strap bars. Inside of case stamped with the British military marks : "British War Department arrow, "W.W.W" (Wrist Watch Waterproof), "23088 - 910" (the same marks would have originally been repeated on the outside of the case, but at sometime have been polished off). Case width (not including crown) : 37mm. Case condition : 85% (some minor tool marks on back of case).

Original matt black dial with subsidiary seconds. White numerals (a few have been retouched). Signed "Longines", also marked with British War Department arrow. Luminous hour markers and hands. Fitted with original UB acrylic crystal (a couple of minor faults around edge). Dial condition : 85%.

Good quality, gilt, 15 jewel Longines movement. Signed "Longines" (calibre 12.68Z). Chaton set jewels. Shock absorber. Movement condition (appearance) : 95%. Time keeping : good.

Currently fitted with an olive coloured nylon Nato style strap.

LONGINES "Greenlander" - Fact or Fiction?