Description
Produced for the German military, all issued wristwatches were required to follow a specific standard, this being: case made of a chromium plated brass; a manual winding movement; water resistant; dust/moisture proof; and are a total of 15 jewels. A secondary hand is to be located at the 6 o’clock position indicating seconds, and both main hands are to be luminous.
This Swiss-made Phenix watch is in EXCELLENT functioning condition. Though the crystal has some scratches, the dial and hands are in near MINT condition, with NO damage or corrosion! The manufacture name is clearly marked on the face, as was manufactured between 1939 and 1945. The reverse is stamped with “D 31403 H” (D = Dienstuhr; H = Heer), indicating it was an issued timepiece. This was brought back by an RAF Serviceman at the end of the war, and was worn for many years. Being in used condition, the case does show some signs of wear (scratches, marks, patina), and almost all the original finish is gone. The strap is a replacement from the 1950s, which also shows wear and staining. I had it running for almost 24 hours on a full wind, however I suggest it be cleaned for daily use.
DH: Dienstuhr Heer
D: Dienstuhr Luftwaffe
DRGM: Deutsches Reich Gebrauchsmuster
RLM: Reichsluftfahrtministerium
KM: Kriegsmarine
DU: Dienstuhr (Verwaltung)
Though the “D” marked watches were specific to Luftwaffe units, there is evidence that “DH” coded watches were also issued to Luftwaffe personnel and possibly other service organizations.
A VERY nice and original item for any collection, or display!
