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 shortly before WWII that the British War Office began procuring watches specifically designed for military use, with the US Army Ordnance Department following suit two years later. The ORD DEPT. issued these watches during the war, with the 1940 Ordnance Department specifications standardizing the timepieces for military personnel. This watch, though automatic, captures the spirit of the original hand-wound design. We also offer a manual hand-winding version for those seeking a closer match to the WWII models.

Comparison:

The last two images, shared by a watch enthusiast, show original WWII Elgin ORD watches, while the third image displays a Grana ATP British military watch. As seen in the photos, both follow a nearly identical design, with minimal differences.

Specifications:

• Case Diameter: 36.5 mm (excluding crown), 39 mm (including crown)
• Lug to Lug: 43 mm
• Thickness: 13.5 mm
• Lug Type: Spring Bars
• Dial Color: Off White
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Caseback: 316L Stainless Steel
• Crown: 316L Stainless Steel
• Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50 meters)
• Movement: 21-jewel automatic with a 36-hour power reserve
• Hacking Function: Yes
• Subsidiary Second Hand
• Glass: Plexiglass / Perspex
• Luminous Material: Luminova
• Serial Number: Engraved on caseback
• Strap: 18 mm canvas
• Guarantee: 24 months

This watch is a tribute to the original US military Ordnance watches, combining a vintage design with modern functionality.

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.

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If you are not satisfied with your purchase or it does not meet your requirements, you can return it within 14 days of receipt. The item must be in its original condition and packaging. To return a watch, please notify us using the form at the link below.

Please note that the watch, strap, or other purchased item must be in new and resalable condition. The returns policy will not apply if the item has been worn, the plastic protectors on the dial and/or caseback have been removed, or if there are other signs of usage, such as a worn strap. Essentially, the goods should not have been used beyond what would be expected if you had handled or examined an item in a shop before purchase.

To request a return authorization number, please visit this link.

Read our full returns policy here