A rare WWII Grana ‘Dirty Dozen’ Military wristwatch. Undoubtedly the Holy Grail for WW2 wristwatch

A rare WWII Grana ‘Dirty Dozen’ Military wristwatch. Undoubtedly the Holy Grail for WW2 wristwatch collectors, this Grana example is one of only 1000-1500 made during the late WW2 era. 12 manufacturers were contracted to make British military watches (hence the Dirty Dozen moniker), and Grana made by far the fewest. Marked with a broad arrow to the back cover, and the letter W.W.W, which stands for ‘Watches,Wrist, Waterproof’. The serial number M18694 is marked below the WWW, indicating a 1945 manufacturer date. The case is of stainless steel, with a black dial with subsidiary dial, sword style hands, and a screw on back cover. Luminescent numerals and hands. The black dial has undergone an interesting modification during the post war era, with the military broad arrow having been (almost invisibly) painted out. Information supplied by the vendor suggests that his father had this minor alteration made in order for it to not be obviously of military origin. The removal of this painted modification may be possible. The watch is currently fitted with a later, likely 1960’s stainless steel expanding bracelet strap by Fixo-Flex. The watch measures 3.8cm wide, not including the crown. Condition: cosmetically very good. Normal light signs of service wear, with fine scratches to the glass and stainless steel casing. The movement would appear to work when wound, with both the minute and second hands operating as they should. Note: regarding watches/pocket watches please note movements untested, functionality untested, for more information request a condition report with specific questions or please view in person