MWC 24 Jewel 1982 Pattern 300m Automatic Military Divers Watch in Black PVD with a Sapphire Crystal on a NATO Webbing Strap (Date Version)
£279.00 GBP
Product Details
Product Code: DIV/82PVD/AU/D
Automatic 300m Diver’s Watch – Black PVD Stainless Steel Case
This diver’s watch is a modern reissue of one of our classic 1980s models, now upgraded with advanced materials and refined detailing. The robust black PVD stainless steel case delivers exceptional durability and stealth aesthetics, making it ideal for both demanding operational use and everyday wear.
One version of this watch was specially commissioned by a U.S. contractor following a large-scale order from one of their clients, reinforcing its credentials as a serious professional tool.
Powered by a high-performance 24-jewel automatic self-winding movement (NH35A), the watch offers reliability, precision, and a 41-hour power reserve. Several enhancements have been made over the original specification, including:
- A shatter- and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
- 300m (1000ft) water resistance
- An updated, non-radioactive Luminova dial for excellent night visibility
PVD Finish – Military-Grade Covert Coating
The matte black, non-reflective Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) finish used on this model is frequently specified in military procurement, particularly for special forces and anti-terrorist units. Unlike painted coatings used on lower-quality watches, PVD plating chemically bonds to the surface at a molecular level. The result is a highly durable finish that resists wear and fading under harsh conditions.
While the coating is extremely hard-wearing, it's worth noting that deep gouges or continuous heavy abrasion may still damage the surface—though such wear is rare under normal use.
Historical & Technical Background
This model draws inspiration from the 1980 UK MOD DEF STAN 66-4 (Part 1) Issue 3 specification, originally issued for automatic diver’s watches. It retains several key features from the original military design:
- Bold dial layout with luminous markers
- Unidirectional rotating bezel
- Screw-down crown and caseback
Although the original MOD specification included a mineral glass crystal (as shown in the final two reference images), this updated version benefits from modern advances including a sapphire crystal and Luminova-based luminescence, replacing the now-obsolete tritium paint.
Dimensions & Specifications
- Water Resistance: 300m / 1000ft
- Case Width: 45mm (including crown), 40mm (excluding crown)
- Thickness: 15mm
- Lug-to-Lug: 49mm
- Crystal: Flat sapphire with double anti-reflective coating (31mm diameter)
- Movement: NH35A automatic, 24 jewels, 41-hour power reserve
- Crown: Screw-down locking
- Caseback: Screw-down stainless steel
- Weight: 89.5g
- Strap: 20mm NATO webbing (multiple colour options available)
- Packaging: Presentation gift box
Why Choose Sapphire Crystal?
A common question among customers is: Why sapphire? The answer lies in its unmatched strength, clarity, and resilience.
Synthetic sapphire is the industry standard for premium watch crystals due to its exceptional:
- Scratch resistance
- Shatter resistance
- Optical clarity (especially with anti-reflective coating)
Sapphire is particularly valued by professionals in military, law enforcement, security, and outdoor sectors, who account for over 70% of our clientele.
In our experience, over 90% of cracked crystal cases involve mineral glass, even when hardened. In contrast, sapphire’s structural integrity is preserved through precision heat-treatment and internal stress elimination during manufacturing. Once formed, two layers of anti-reflective coating are applied for maximum visibility.
The same material is now used in modern iPhones—a testament to its durability and quality.
While sapphire crystal adds slightly to the cost, it’s a hallmark of a serious timepiece, offering superior longevity and performance under pressure.
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