WWII 1940 Pattern American Army Ordnance / ORD Watch (Automatic)
SKU: ORD1/AU During WWII, Ordnance watches were produced for the US military by Waltham, Hamilton, Bulova, and Elgin. Due to wartime conditions and material shortages, these original watches were made of nickel-plated brass instead of stainless steel, making it difficult to find one in good condition today. The original Ordnance watches were small, measuring 33/34mm, but we have slightly increased the size to 36.5 mm (excluding the crown) and 39 mm (including the crown) for a more contemporary fit. The US Army Ordnance Department watches were designed for non-aviation personnel, while the similar A-11 model, with a black dial, was issued to USAAF aircrew. Interestingly, the British War Office had procured a similar watch design in 1938, two years prior to the introduction of the ORD watches, explaining the near-identical look of both. Historical Context: Before WWII, soldiers, particularly in WWI, often adapted civilian pocket watches or trench watches for military use. It wasn’t until