MWC Mechanical/Quartz Hybrid NATO Pattern Military Pilots Chronograph in Non Reflective Black PVD Finish with Sapphire Crystal

Product Details

SKU Code: CHR21/PVD/HY

The MWC PVD NATO chronograph is based on the specifications used by leading manufacturers of NATO chronographs, enhanced with several improvements for better operation and visibility. Although designed to meet the needs of military aircrews, it is also ideal for airline and GA pilots. The case size is 45.5mm, and the chronograph uses a VK68 hybrid movement.

Key Features

This chronograph includes a 24-hour (Military Time) sub-dial, allowing users to track time in a 24-hour format. This feature is crucial for personnel working extended periods without natural daylight exposure.

The main difference between hybrid watches and mechanical chronographs is their power source. Mechanical models are powered by a mainspring regulated by a balance wheel and controlled by precision levers, hammers, and gears. In contrast, hybrid chronographs are powered by a battery, regulated by a quartz crystal, and controlled by precision mechanical components. This combination provides the appearance and feel of a mechanical watch with the accuracy of quartz.

Hybrid Movement Benefits

• Operation: Hybrid watches outwardly function like mechanical ones. The top button provides a crisp response, starting the timing hand in 1/5 sec increments. The stop button at 5 o’clock has the same crisp feel, with the hand snapping back to 12 upon reset.
• Accuracy: The factory rating for accuracy is +/-20 seconds per month, superior to mechanical chronographs, which are typically accurate to +/-2 or 3 seconds per day.
• Maintenance: Hybrids require significantly less maintenance and are more reliable in the long term.
• Convenience: Ideal for those owning multiple watches, as hybrids do not need winding before use. A battery swap every few years and a water-resistance check is all that’s required.

Covert Matt Black PVD Finish

The special matt black non-reflective PVD finish is often specified in military contracts for special forces and anti-terrorist units. The PVD process alters the color of the steel at a molecular level, ensuring it will not deteriorate under heavy usage, unlike painted finishes which can fade or rub off.

Technical Specifications

• Case Diameter: 44mm excluding the crown, 45.5mm including the crown
• Lug to Lug: 49mm
• Thickness: 13.5mm
• Dial Color: Black
• Crown: Screw-down locking
• Case Material: 316L PVD Steel
• Caseback: 316L stainless steel
• Water Resistance: 10 atm (100m or 330ft)
• Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating*
• Illumination: Super Luminova for maximum nighttime performance
• Movement: VK68 Mechanical/Quartz Hybrid
• Strap: 22mm NATO (NATO Nylon Webbing Strap)
• Battery: Silver Oxide SR936SW
• Battery Life: Approx. 3 years
• Warranty: 24 months

Benefits of Sapphire Crystal

Synthetic sapphire is extremely strong, shatter-resistant, and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for military and security personnel, police officers, and active outdoor enthusiasts. These groups account for over 70% of our customer base. Over 90% of incidents involving cracked crystals occur with mineral glass. Even hardened mineral crystals cannot match the durability of sapphire. The sapphire crystal is heat-treated to remove internal stresses and coated with two layers of anti-reflective coating. While more expensive, the superior longevity, resilience, and performance justify its use in higher-end watches.

This MWC PVD NATO chronograph combines the reliability and precision of modern technology with the rugged design and functionality needed for professional use. Its robust features and user-friendly design make it an exceptional choice for both professionals and enthusiasts.

• Delivery

  • Shipping Information

    Europe, UK, and Rest of World

    Tracked Mail:

    • Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
    • UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
    • Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

    Express Courier (UPS or FedEx):

    • Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
    • UK (UPS/DPD):  £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
    • Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

    Note: The exact shipping cost may vary slightly depending on the weight and dimensions, but it will only differ by a small amount and will be shown at checkout. The above rates cover approximately 85% of parcels.

    Order and Shipment Confirmation

    You will generally receive two emails after placing an order:

    1. Confirmation of receipt of the order and payment.
    2. Notification of shipment once the goods are dispatched.

    Processing Time: Orders are shipped by the Post Office or Courier within 48 hours of payment processing. Note that our shipping centers are closed on Saturdays and Sundays; therefore, orders placed during this time may take up to 72 hours to be dispatched. This includes orders placed after 14:00 (CET) on Fridays.

    Estimated Delivery Times (in working days):

    • Europe:
      • UPS: 2 to 5 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 14 days
    • UK:
      • DPD or UPS: 24 hours
      • Tracked Mail: 1 to 2 days
    • Rest of World:
      • UPS: 3 to 10 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 21 days*

    *Some countries are notoriously slow to process goods on arrival, including Israel, Hong Kong, Macau, Mexico, South Africa, and some South American countries. Significant delays can also occur in other countries in Africa. For time-sensitive deliveries, we recommend using UPS, DHL, or FedEx.

    All shipping estimates exclude Saturdays and Sundays.

    While we strive to deliver within the above timeframes, they are guides, and delivery cannot be guaranteed. We are not responsible for delays caused by couriers or any national postal service. If your goods are not delivered within the estimated time, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch, and we will do our best to resolve the issue promptly. We are not liable for any loss caused by late delivery.

    Our delivery charges cover the cost of shipping to you but do not include import charges and administration fees to clear the goods when entering your country if applicable.

    It is the purchaser's responsibility to understand that charges may be levied and to pay all subsequent import taxes and duties on goods shipped to their country. If items are returned to MWC due to rejected payment, subsequent charges incurred (such as import duty and processing costs) will be deducted from any refund issued. For more information, please contact accounts@mwc-distribution.com

    If you need to clarify any details regarding local taxes for your location, please contact us before placing an order. For clarification, goods shipped to the EU can be dispatched from our EU location if ordered at https://mwc.eu/, and we also have a dedicated UK shipping center at https://mwcwatches.co.uk/. In the United States, orders under $800 do not incur taxes or fees. In Australia, orders up to AU$1000 are tax-free. Many other countries have similar regulations, which you can verify using this helpful link: Zonos De Minimis Values and also this link to calculate taxes for shipments to most countries worldwide https://www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator/

    We do not accept liability for goods lost after delivery to a PO Box. We reserve the right to cancel orders where the delivery address is a PO Box. Similarly, we do not accept liability for goods lost after confirmed delivery to APO or BFPO locations.

    Customer Notification: It is the customer's responsibility to notify us if goods are not received within 21 days of the estimated delivery date. If no notification is made within this period, the buyer is deemed to have received the goods.

    Safe Place Deliveries

    Some delivery companies allow for delivery without a signature, leaving the item in a "safe place" (e.g., shed, garage, porch). If you choose this option, it is at your own risk. We initially send items by a secure service requiring a signature or proof of delivery. Using a "safe place" increases the risk of theft. We advise ensuring deliveries require a signature to ensure safe receipt.

    Failed Deliveries

    If an item is refused and returned to us, we will refund the order less the outbound and inbound shipping charges once the item is received back at our packing and shipping center. For business locations, please notify the receiving personnel of the expected delivery to avoid refusals. Usually, we will be notified of delivery issues and will email you for instructions. It is important to act quickly to avoid return and associated costs.

    For any questions or further assistance, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch.