Aeschbach WW2 Pattern Germany Luftwaffe / Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM) Pilots Watch with an Automatic Swiss 31 Jewel Sellita SW260 Movement and a Domed Vintage Box Sapphire Crystal

Product Details

SKU Code: AESCDUH1CHA

This classic WW2-style military watch is a faithful recreation of an original Aeschbach* model used by the German Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe during the Second World War. While it retains the authentic look and feel of the original 1940s design, this updated version incorporates significant modern upgrades, including a robust 31-jewel Sellita SW260 automatic movement, 100m water resistance, and a scratch- and shatter-resistant box sapphire crystal that visually mimics the original plexiglass.

Though the wartime originals are now rare and highly collectible, this model is outwardly almost indistinguishable from its 1940s counterparts. However, it has been subtly enhanced for daily wear, delivering reliability and durability without compromising authenticity. The original hand-wound 15-jewel movement has been replaced by a modern Swiss automatic movement, improving functionality while preserving historical character.

Historical Context

During WW2, Aeschbach was among over 100 manufacturers producing timepieces for the Wehrmacht, Luftwaffe, and Kriegsmarine. The company was established in 1923 and was originally based in Pforzheim, a German city heavily bombed in February 1945. Tragically, the air raid destroyed the Aeschbach workshops and much of the city, putting an end to production at the time.

Decades later, the brand was revived when a descendant of the Aeschbach family discovered a trove of surviving watches and original technical drawings in a deceased relative’s belongings. This discovery allowed the company to restart production, preserving a unique piece of horological history.

Why Sapphire Crystal?

The original watches featured plexiglass crystals—lightweight but prone to scratches and cracks. Modern versions use synthetic sapphire, chosen for its superior durability.

• Scratch-Resistant: Exceptionally hard, second only to diamond
• Shatter-Resistant: Tougher than mineral or acrylic alternatives
• Anti-Reflective Coating: Applied in two layers for optimal clarity

This makes it an ideal choice for military personnel, first responders, and anyone leading an active lifestyle—over 70% of our customer base. Watches with plexiglass or standard mineral glass are far more prone to damage under pressure, especially in demanding environments.

Specifications

• Case Diameter: 36.5 mm (excluding crown), 39 mm (including crown)
• Lug to Lug: 43 mm
• Thickness: 12.5 mm
• Lug Type: Drilled for easy strap changes
• Dial Colour: Black
• Case & Caseback: Military-grade 316L stainless steel
• Crown: Screw-down stainless steel, locking
• Water Resistance: 100m / 330ft / 10 ATM
• Crystal: Box sapphire, shatter- and scratch-resistant with anti-reflective coating
• Movement: Swiss Sellita SW260, 31-jewel automatic with hacking function
• Subdial: Small seconds at 6 o’clock
• Luminous Material: Luminova for visibility in low light
• Strap: 18mm black leather
• Packaging: Supplied in presentation box
• Warranty: 24 months
• Serial Number: Engraved on caseback

For a deeper dive into WW2 German military watch manufacturers, a near-complete list compiled by enthusiasts can be found here. If you have knowledge to contribute, they welcome your input to help complete the archive.

• Delivery

  • Shipping Information

    Europe, UK, and Rest of World

    Tracked Mail:

    • Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
    • UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
    • Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

    Express Courier (UPS or FedEx):

    • Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
    • UK (UPS/DPD):  £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
    • Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

    Note: The exact shipping cost may vary slightly depending on the weight and dimensions, but it will only differ by a small amount and will be shown at checkout. The above rates cover approximately 85% of parcels.

    Order and Shipment Confirmation

    You will generally receive two emails after placing an order:

    1. Confirmation of receipt of the order and payment.
    2. Notification of shipment once the goods are dispatched.

    Processing Time: Orders are shipped by the Post Office or Courier within 48 hours of payment processing. Note that our shipping centers are closed on Saturdays and Sundays; therefore, orders placed during this time may take up to 72 hours to be dispatched. This includes orders placed after 14:00 (CET) on Fridays.

    Estimated Delivery Times (in working days):

    • Europe:
      • UPS: 2 to 5 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 14 days
    • UK:
      • DPD or UPS: 24 hours
      • Tracked Mail: 1 to 2 days
    • Rest of World:
      • UPS: 3 to 10 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 21 days*

    *Some countries are notoriously slow to process goods on arrival, including Israel, Hong Kong, Macau, Mexico, South Africa, and some South American countries. Significant delays can also occur in other countries in Africa. For time-sensitive deliveries, we recommend using UPS, DHL, or FedEx.

    All shipping estimates exclude Saturdays and Sundays.

    While we strive to deliver within the above timeframes, they are guides, and delivery cannot be guaranteed. We are not responsible for delays caused by couriers or any national postal service. If your goods are not delivered within the estimated time, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch, and we will do our best to resolve the issue promptly. We are not liable for any loss caused by late delivery.

    Our delivery charges cover the cost of shipping to you but do not include import charges and administration fees to clear the goods when entering your country if applicable.

    It is the purchaser's responsibility to understand that charges may be levied and to pay all subsequent import taxes and duties on goods shipped to their country. If items are returned to MWC due to rejected payment, subsequent charges incurred (such as import duty and processing costs) will be deducted from any refund issued. For more information, please contact accounts@mwc-distribution.com

    If you need to clarify any details regarding local taxes for your location, please contact us before placing an order. For clarification, goods shipped to the EU can be dispatched from our EU location if ordered at https://mwc.eu/, and we also have a dedicated UK shipping center at https://mwcwatches.co.uk/. In the United States, orders under $800 do not incur taxes or fees. In Australia, orders up to AU$1000 are tax-free. Many other countries have similar regulations, which you can verify using this helpful link: Zonos De Minimis Values and also this link to calculate taxes for shipments to most countries worldwide https://www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator/

    We do not accept liability for goods lost after delivery to a PO Box. We reserve the right to cancel orders where the delivery address is a PO Box. Similarly, we do not accept liability for goods lost after confirmed delivery to APO or BFPO locations.

    Customer Notification: It is the customer's responsibility to notify us if goods are not received within 21 days of the estimated delivery date. If no notification is made within this period, the buyer is deemed to have received the goods.

    Safe Place Deliveries

    Some delivery companies allow for delivery without a signature, leaving the item in a "safe place" (e.g., shed, garage, porch). If you choose this option, it is at your own risk. We initially send items by a secure service requiring a signature or proof of delivery. Using a "safe place" increases the risk of theft. We advise ensuring deliveries require a signature to ensure safe receipt.

    Failed Deliveries

    If an item is refused and returned to us, we will refund the order less the outbound and inbound shipping charges once the item is received back at our packing and shipping center. For business locations, please notify the receiving personnel of the expected delivery to avoid refusals. Usually, we will be notified of delivery issues and will email you for instructions. It is important to act quickly to avoid return and associated costs.

    For any questions or further assistance, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch.