Why We Love It

You can't get much more iconic than a no-frills military/field wristwatch.

Produced under contract for the US Military in various formats since World War II, these simple watches were fashioned by a handful of manufacturers for American servicemen. Many of these timepieces were used extensively - forged in the infernos by the heroes that wore them.

This particular example, produced by Marathon Watch Company for a February 2004 contract, is based off a specification worn extensively by American troops during the Iraq and Afghanistan conflicts following 9/11. The watch features a 34mm black polymer case, quartz movement, and a stark black dial with printed Arabic 12/24 hour indices with copious amounts of luminous material and matching syringe handset.

Fitted to a matching black nylon single-pass strap with pin buckle, this watch remains in near-mint unused condition. With a manual movement, ultra-lightweight case construction, and spartan military styling that is always en vogue, these timekeepers are the perfect companions for everything from everyday wear to fighting battles in dank jungles.

NOTE: This special watch comes from the collection of a wristwatch obsessed 30-year veteran of the US Military who saw combat in Iraq, and served at the Pentagon and for the United Nations and US Department of Defense. His badges, awards, and decorations include The Combat Action Badge, The Parachutist Badge, The Legion of Merit, The Bronze Star Medal and a Purple Heart.