Jaeger-LeCoultre WWW: A British Military Watch from 1944-1945

amanico · 2020-04-06T14:59:06Z

Explore the Jaeger-LeCoultre WWW, a British military-issued watch from 1944-1945, featuring the unique Caliber 479 movement. See collector photos and insights.

Nicolas (amanico) shares an exceptional look at his Jaeger-LeCoultre WWW, a military-issued timepiece from 1944-1945. His detailed photographs highlight the watch's robust construction and the surprisingly refined Caliber 479 movement. This article delves into the unique characteristics that make this vintage JLC a significant piece of horological history and a testament to the brand's wartime contributions.

A military watch issued for the British Infantry in 1944 and 1945.

35 mm chromium plated case,

Screw in case back:

And last nut not least, the movement, the Cal 479, superbly decorated and finished.

One of the many jewels from the Grande Maison.

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The Caliber 479 movement is unique to the JLC 'WWW' model, and its high level of decoration and finishing for a wartime military watch is considered remarkably extravagant.
A question arises regarding the infrequent use of chromium plating in watches, despite its potential benefits like durability, thinness allowing base metal finish, and cost-effective re-plating, with nickel sensitivity suggested as a possible drawback.
Another community member shares an additional wristshot of a similar Jaeger-LeCoultre WWW, showcasing the watch in wear.
The original author provides an additional image of the Jaeger-LeCoultre WWW, further illustrating its design and condition.

The Discussion

batholith

Apr 6, 2020

I don't care what's been done to it; it is simply beautiful.

Berkeleygis

Apr 6, 2020

Thanks Nico! Hopefully one day I can find and afford Mark XI 😇

elliot55

Apr 6, 2020

... The first one looks like it should be in a JLC history book. - Scott

winther502

Apr 8, 2020

Hi Nicolas What great photos of a truly ...hmmm... COOL watch. The cal. 479 is uniqui to the JLC "WWW". Using a movement like that,- in a watch like that,- in wartime,- is simply (to use a wartime expression) fabulously NUTS. Yours Jacob/Copenhagen

Fastwong

Apr 9, 2020

I wonder why chrome isn't used more often on watches. Hard chrome is thin enough to take on the finish of the base metal (polished, brushed, blasted, etc), way more durable than stainless, and can easily/inexpensively be replated... Maybe the nickel content is tough on people with nickel sensitivity?

Jaeger-LeCoultre WWW: A British Military Watch from 1944-1945

Key Points from the Discussion

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