IWC Mark XI Ref 6B/346 (1951)

Ref: 6B/346

Year: 1951

The watch movement has been serviced in preparation for sale and is running strong. The crystal, case, dial and hands have been left in untouched & original condition. The case edges are sharp and it shows only minor signs of use. There are some minor surface marks on the crystal. It will come presented on a reproduction 6B/2617 strap, this was the first nylon NATO strap issued in 1954 for the MK11 navigator watches, the 6B/346 . Close up/ magnified photos of the watch and movement can be provided on request. The watch dates to 1951, it has a Tritium lume dial , hence the circled ‘T’

Many of our favourite conversations have started with the words ‘ I’ve got a watch in a drawer that belonged to my father…’ All of these watches have significant sentimental value and interesting tales behind them, if the watch itself could talk I’m sure there’d be more. This watch has been in the same family since the early 50’s , worn only occasionally in recent years and our client is hoping it will be bought and treasured by a collector.

The IWC MkXI is one of the most iconic military watches ever produced, originally commissioned in the aftermath of WWII as a navigators watch. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) put out requirements for a navigation timekeeping wristwatch, that would have a highly accurate movement with hack-device, an inner soft iron cage forming a shield to protect the movement from magnetic interference, a stainless steel waterproof case with a screwed ring to protect the crystal from a sudden decrease of pressure, and a black dial with luminous hands.