Description
The Type A-8 was a navigation stopwatch designed for timing ground speed meters for determining the velocity of aircraft relative to the ground. One revolution of the Type A-8 hand was equivalent to ten seconds. The dial was white on early Wittnauer Type A-8 watches and black on Waltham watches produced from 1940 onwards.The watch is equipped with the “Jitterbug” high beat movement that beats at an amazing 108,000 bph making this a true foudroyante dial that goes round in just 10 seconds.
Elgin produced a Type A-8, 15 jewel, black dial stopwatch under military specification no. 27749. Waltham, the Federal Television Corp. and Aristo Import Co. manufactured Type A-8 stopwatches under military specification MIL-W-6510 (specification published in August 1951 and superseded No. 94-27749A published in July 1945). Under MIL-W-6510, continuous running movements were required to have not less than 15 jewels and the non-continuous movements were required to have not less than 9 jewels.
Made of brass and steel, this Elgin Type A-8 Navigator Stopwatch is in EXCELLENT used condition. Complete in the original box, transport case, it is dated December 29, 1944. Some scratches, marks, and wear, due to the age, but noting that detracts. The plastic crystal has yellowed over time, but that could be replaced, if one wished. Not broken parts, and it is 100% FUNCTIONAL…but only for a few seconds. I have examined the movement, and it appears to only just need a cleaning. Though faint, the reverse is marked with all the correct spec information, including the Serial Number, Contract Number, Part Numbers, and Manufacture Info. The box is worn, but solid. Also features some hand-written notations. Would make an EXCELLENT addition to any collection or display!
