SKU: ORD1/AU

During WWII, Ordnance watches were produced for the US military by Waltham, Hamilton, Bulova, and Elgin. Due to wartime conditions and material shortages, these original watches were made of nickel-plated brass instead of stainless steel, making it difficult to find one in good condition today. The original Ordnance watches were small, measuring 33/34mm, but we have slightly increased the size to 36.5 mm (excluding the crown) and 39 mm (including the crown) for a more contemporary fit.

The US Army Ordnance Department watches were designed for non-aviation personnel, while the similar A-11 model, with a black dial, was issued to USAAF aircrew. Interestingly, the British War Office had procured a similar watch design in 1938, two years prior to the introduction of the ORD watches, explaining the near-identical look of both.

Historical Context:

Before WWII, soldiers, particularly in WWI, often adapted civilian pocket watches or trench watches for military use. It wasn’t until shortly before WWII that the British War Office began procuring watches specifically designed for military use, with the US Army Ordnance Department following suit two years later. The ORD DEPT. issued these watches during the war, with the 1940 Ordnance Department specifications standardizing the timepieces for military personnel. This watch, though automatic, captures the spirit of the original hand-wound design. We also offer a manual hand-winding version for those seeking a closer match to the WWII models.

Comparison:

The last two images, shared by a watch enthusiast, show original WWII Elgin ORD watches, while the third image displays a Grana ATP British military watch. As seen in the photos, both follow a nearly identical design, with minimal differences.

Specifications:

• Case Diameter: 36.5 mm (excluding crown), 39 mm (including crown)
• Lug to Lug: 43 mm
• Thickness: 13.5 mm
• Lug Type: Spring Bars
• Dial Color: Off White
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Caseback: 316L Stainless Steel
• Crown: 316L Stainless Steel
• Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
• Movement: 21-jewel automatic with a 36-hour power reserve
• Hacking Function: Yes
• Subsidiary Second Hand
• Glass: Plexiglass / Perspex
• Luminous Material: Luminova
• Serial Number: Engraved on caseback
• Strap: 18 mm canvas
• Guarantee: 24 months

This watch is a tribute to the original US military Ordnance watches, combining a vintage design with modern functionality.