Launched in 1948 as a collaboration between IWC and JLC, the Mark XI was crafted to meet British Ministry of Defense (MoD) specifications, producing timeless classics with similar styles. While JLC discontinued production in 1953, IWC continued until the Mark XI's decommissioning in the early 1980s. Adhering to MoD standards, the Mark XI featured a broad arrow designation on the dial, movement, and case, signifying government property. Models after 1951, such as this, house the legendary manually wound caliber 89, renowned for its accuracy for British pilots during their missions.
This example has a lovely condition 36mm steel case. The screw down case back features the engravings of the broad arrow, 6B/ 346 plus issue numbers, dating this watch to 1952. The watch houses a black dial ( made in iron , onsiderably thicker than those of regulation wristwatches as requested by MOD)in excellent condition with tritium painted Arabic hours and tritium hands, which were later replacements by the MOD and IWC following the end of radium usage on watches. The watch comes on the pictured leather strap. This military IWC comes with a certificate confirming it was delivered in 1952. The IWC calibre 89 movement has been fully serviced by our watchmaker.Fun fact ; the crown has been engraved with a cross , we understood these were done as a sign for good luck for the air force pilots !
Military watches have always been of special interest to us, and we love to share them with all you watch lovers! Come and visit us at our lounge or arrange a call to discuss this watch more.
Specifications:
- IWC Mk11 reference 6B/346
- 36mm steel case with fixed lugs
- Military case back engraving
- mvmt number 1162xxxx
- Dates to 1952
- Black dial with Broad Arrow marking
- IWC calibre 89 movement
- Certificate confirming 1952 delivery
- Comes on the pictured strap
- Fully serviced by our watchmaker
- One-year mechanical warrantee
- Includes a handmade leather watch pouch
- Free worldwide Fedex Priority shipping