Original Item: One Only. This is extremely unusual item, very rarely seen today. The early 20th century was when wrist watches first gained popularity, as the ability to make movements small and robust enough for that use had not existed previously. Here we have a very nice British private-purchase officer’s ‘Trench Wrist Watch’, with a great shrapnel protector to protect the dial. Most likely made about 1915, it is still in fine condition, and comes with the original leather wrist band. The watch currently does not run, and it feels like the mainspring is fully wound, so it is in need of service. The time adjustment still works by pulling out the winding button.
The dial is marked “Services” / SPORTS under the 12, and the bottom is marked FOREIGN, so this was made in England using an imported movement, or imported intact. The body is about 1 1/4″ inches wide, and it has a white face with gold numbers, and hands that glow in the dark.
The shrapnel protector looks to be made from nickel alloy, and is marked with PATENT 20696 as well as RD 647078 on the inside. It is spring loaded, and easily goes over the watch. Research indicates that the British patent for the protector was granted 10 June 1915, and it was also registered with the board of trade. This patent was applied for by Charles Adolf Schierwater of Liverpool in 1914.
A Private Purchase British Officer’s TRENCH Watch from WW1, with a great shrapnel protector.The watch comes ready to be repaired or displayed!