HSTE initiates a captivating exploration into the artistry of vintage watch case-backs, categorizing them into prototypes, military, commemorative, and other special designs. His initial examples, including an IWC Aquatimer ref. 812 and various military-issued timepieces, set the stage for a rich community discussion.
I was wearing this week one of my two IWC Aquatimers (ref. 812) which has this very nice symbolized submariner on the outer case-back. This ignited the idea of browsing through all the nice, special case-backs of vintage watches.
I would categorize them into 4 Topics
- propotype
- army
- commemorative
- other
I will give it a start with some examples - have fun.
Prototype - IWC 3700 with prototype geo-2 bracelet making it a 3702
Army - Heuer 2446 Autavia Argentinian Air Force
Army - Blancpain Fifty Fathoms No Radiation Bundeswehr
Army - Heuer 1550 SG Bundeswehr
Army - Omega CK2444 Malayan Air Force
Army - Omega CK2451 Argentinian Air Force
Army - IWC Ocean 2000 Ref 3529 Bundeswehr
Army - IWC Mark X - British Army
Army - IWC Mark XI - British Army
Army - Zenith Cairelli - Italian Army (Civilian Version)
Army - Longines - Army version, I do not know which Army
Diver - IWC Aquatimer ref. 812
Diver - Longines Diver 7594
Diver - Breitling Superocean Ref. 2005
Commemorative - Omega OT2850 'Cross of Merit - Melbourne'
Commemorative - Omega 145.022 Speedmaster 1st Moonlanding
Other - Audemars Piguet Royal Oak A-12xx 'Karl'
Other - Audemars Piguet Royal Oak A-8xx
Other - Omega 'La Magique' - quite experimental low production
Other - Vacheron Constantin '222'
Other - Audemars Piguet Royal Oak A-3x
About the Omega Ref. CK2451
The Omega CK2451 is a chronograph model from the mid-20th century, representing a period when Omega was establishing its reputation for robust and precise timekeeping instruments. This reference is part of a series of chronographs that utilized movements from Lemania, a key supplier to Omega during this era. Its design reflects the functional aesthetic prevalent in tool watches of the period, prioritizing legibility and operational reliability. It stands as an example of Omega's commitment to producing high-quality chronographs for a discerning market.
This particular reference houses the Omega Calibre 27 CHRO C12 T2 PC, also known as the Lemania 2310, a manually wound column-wheel chronograph movement. The case is typically constructed from stainless steel, though other precious metal variants may exist. While specific case dimensions can vary slightly across production batches, these models generally feature a moderate diameter suitable for daily wear. The crystal is commonly made of Hesalite, a durable acrylic material often found on watches of this vintage.
For collectors, the CK2451 is valued for its reliable and well-regarded movement, which is shared with other significant chronographs of the era. Its appeal lies in its historical significance as a foundational piece in Omega's chronograph lineage, offering a blend of technical merit and understated design. Variants often include different dial configurations and case finishes, providing collectors with a range of options within this reference.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Omega 27 CHRO C12 T2 PC (Lemania 2310)
- Case
- Stainless Steel
- Diameter
- 35 mm
- Dial
- Silver
- Crystal
- Hesalite
About the Omega Omega Vintage Ref. CK2444
The Omega CK2444 is a notable example within the brand's extensive history of military-issued timepieces, specifically commissioned for the British Ministry of Defence (MoD). It belongs to a series of watches known to collectors as the 'Dirty Dozen,' a group of twelve different manufacturers that supplied watches to the British Army during World War II. These watches were designed for robust performance and legibility in demanding field conditions.
This reference typically features a stainless steel case, often with a fixed lug design, and is powered by the manual-winding Omega Caliber 30T2. Dials are characterized by a black finish with Arabic numerals, a railway minute track, and often a subsidiary seconds register at 6 o'clock. The 'VB' dial, as seen on some examples, signifies a replacement dial produced by the MoD's horological services, indicating the watch's continued service life and maintenance within the military.
For collectors, the Omega CK2444 represents a significant piece of horological and military history. Its robust construction and utilitarian design are highly valued, particularly examples with documented military provenance or distinctive MoD markings. The presence of a 'VB' dial adds a unique layer of historical context, reflecting the practical aspects of military equipment maintenance and the enduring service of these timepieces.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 30T2
- Case
- Stainless steel
- Diameter
- 35mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the IWC 18.01 Ref. Ocean2000
The IWC Ocean 2000, reference 18.01, represents a significant development in high-performance tool watches, distinguished by its robust construction and functional design. It was developed in collaboration with Porsche Design, marking a period of innovative material use and engineering in watchmaking. This model is notable for its substantial water resistance while maintaining a profile that was considered relatively slender for its capabilities at the time of its introduction. It stands as a testament to the era's pursuit of extreme utility in wristwatches.
This reference features a case crafted from titanium, a material chosen for its strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, particularly advantageous for watches intended for demanding environments. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, ensuring reliable timekeeping. Its crystal is designed to withstand the pressures associated with its high water resistance rating, contributing to the overall integrity of the timepiece. The design prioritizes legibility and durability, reflecting its purpose as a precision instrument.
For collectors, the Ocean 2000 holds interest as a product of the IWC and Porsche Design collaboration, representing a specific chapter in the evolution of professional-grade watches. Its technical specifications and material choices appeal to those who value engineering and practical application in watch design. The model's historical context and its influence on subsequent designs contribute to its relevance within the broader landscape of modern watch collecting, particularly for enthusiasts of technically advanced timepieces.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 37521
- Case
- Titanium
- Diameter
- 42mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 2000m
- Crystal
- Sapphire