These 2 watches are brand new but were overlooked during a stock check and will need a new battery either now or soon. Since they are currently in our EU packing and shipping center, we have reduced the price by 60% to avoid the need for them to be returned for a battery replacement. This is a routine procedure as they use a standard, readily available battery as detailed below:
Battery Details
Type: Silver Oxide
Size/Code: SR936SW (also known as 394)
Voltage: 1.55V
Typical Life: ~3 years (depending on usage, especially chronograph functions)
These watches are now quite rare because MWC are sold out of them so this is probably the last new and unused one remaining.
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SKU Code: CHR21/SS/HY
The MWC NATO Chronograph with a stainless steel case is based on the classic NATO-spec chronographs used by various military contractors, but with several key upgrades to improve functionality and visibility. While originally designed with military aircrews in mind, this watch is equally well-suited to airline pilots, general aviation (GA) professionals, and anyone who appreciates robust and precise instrumentation.
Case and Movement This model features a rugged 316L stainless steel case measuring 45.5mm including the crown (44mm excluding), with a lug-to-lug distance of 49mm and a thickness of 13.5mm. At its heart is the high-performance VK67 Meca-Quartz hybrid movement — a clever fusion of quartz precision and mechanical charm.
What is a Hybrid Chronograph? Unlike traditional mechanical chronographs, which rely on a mainspring, balance wheel, and an intricate network of gears and levers, this hybrid chronograph is powered by a battery and regulated by a quartz oscillator — but with mechanical chronograph actuation. In other words, you get the tactile, crisp push-button feel and reset snap of a mechanical chronograph, along with the accuracy and reliability of quartz.
The movement is rated at ±20 seconds per month, but in our experience, it typically performs even better — significantly more accurate than any purely mechanical chronograph, which is usually rated at ±2–3 seconds per day.
Low Maintenance, High Performance One of the standout advantages of this hybrid movement is reduced maintenance. There’s no need for winding, and no concerns about lubricants drying up or timing drift from wear. Just a simple battery change every few years and the occasional water resistance check — that’s it.
Even seasoned watchmakers have mistaken this model for a mechanical piece at first glance. The sweep of the chronograph hand, ticking in 1/5-second increments, mimics a mechanical chronograph so convincingly that it fooled one of our team into thinking it had a Valjoux 7750 inside.
A Mechanical Feel Without the Fuss
Push the top pusher to start the chronograph — feel that sharp, precise click.
Stop the chronograph with the same satisfying response.
Hit the reset pusher, and the hand snaps cleanly back to 12. It looks, sounds, and feels like a mechanical chronograph — but with none of the hassle.
Technical Specifications
Case Diameter: 44mm (excluding crown), 45.5mm (including crown)
Lug to Lug: 49mm
Thickness: 13.5mm
Dial Colour: Black
Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
Case Back: 316L Stainless Steel
Glass: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
Water Resistance: 10ATM / 100m / 330ft
Straps: 22mm NATO (Includes 1 x Black + 1 x Grey NATO strap)
Illumination: Super-LumiNova for optimal low-light visibility
Movement: Seiko VK67 Meca-Quartz Hybrid
Battery: Silver Oxide SR936SW
Battery Life: Approx. 3 years
Why Sapphire Crystal?
We’re often asked why we use sapphire rather than mineral glass — the answer is simple: durability. Synthetic sapphire is exceptionally strong, highly scratch-resistant, and far more shatterproof under impact. This makes it ideal for military personnel, law enforcement, outdoor adventurers, and anyone living life on the move — groups that make up over 70% of our customer base.
To give you some perspective: in cases of accidental crystal damage, over 90% of reports involve mineral glass (even hardened types). Sapphire, on the other hand, is far tougher. After production, it’s heat-treated to eliminate internal stress and improve resilience. We also apply a double layer of anti-reflective coating for optimal clarity in bright light.
In fact, sapphire crystal is now used in premium smartphones like the latest iPhone — and for good reason. It’s not cheap, but it’s a worthwhile investment in real-world durability.
