WW2 Royal Navy HS⩚5 Survey Vessel's Pocket Watch

In 1939, the Royal Navy appears to have had in service, 9 Survey Vessels, but by 1943 only four of the ships remained; HMS Challenger, Franklin, Scott and White Bear, with most having been lost in the first year of action.

The Survey Ships' work involved the preparation of nautical charts, which included the position plotting of sea-mines. However, between 1943-44 the Hydrographic Survey was very much involved in the mapping of the French coastline, which helped to determine the best D-Day beeches and locations for the harbours that were to be erected.

This particular watch, with its HS⩚5 reference, was specifically for the issue to one of the RN's Survey Vessel and as such, it is a rare timepiece. Amazingly it is in excellent condition, with no damage - just minor service wear.

Unlike the more common RN navigational deck watches, these timepieces have more of a utility function about them. Nevertheless, the 15 jewel Swiss movement is of more robust quality, as is the hermetic case and thick crystal. Presented in working order and keeping time, this watch is a difficult example for the collector to find, especially in a condition as fine as this.

A Premium Service watch facility is available with 12 month warranty.

Code: 51142