This stunning, early wristwatch dates from World War One (1915) and is finished in solid silver.  It measures an impressive 34mm in diameter excluding the fixed lugs and winding crown. 

The style is known as an 'officers' or 'trench' watch.

The need for watches for the wrist moved from a bold fashion statement (circa 1906-12) to the practical needs of those involved in the trenches of WW1.  This practicality had been aptly demonstrated by the sporting pioneers of the age such as balloonists and aviators – it was obviously easier to view a watch on ones wrists as oppose to fumbling around for a watch on a chain in ones pocket.  This, of course, transcended to the trenches, fob watches proving unsuitable as can be imagined.  Thus the term ‘Trench’ watch was born.  

However, even the ownership of a basic pocket watch was the domain of the higher end of society, furthermore the superior costs associated with the new ‘wristwatch excluded all but the fortunate few.  In short, in the trenches of WW1 only the high-ranking officers owned such pieces, hence the term of the ‘Officers’ watch.  

The silver case is in good condition, it has fixed lugs and hinged case back that opens to reveal the London import hallmarks for silver and 1915 alongside the initials for the case importer, George Stockwell and a references of 99272 7.

The white dial is porcelain has no cracks or chips and the Arabic hours are luminous with the original hands to match.  The watch also has a subsidiary seconds dial.

The jewelled movement has a Geneva striped finish, it was last serviced in 2015 and runs keeping good time.  

The watch comes on a black leather strap, please do take the time to see my other vintage watches and thanks for looking.