This watch is brand new and comes in its original box. We managed to acquire two units of this version, which are identical to the current retail models with one key difference: the case backs are un-engraved. These were originally produced as contract watches intended for a military client, who would typically arrange for their own case back engraving. This detail offers a great opportunity for personalisation. Apart from this, the watches are exactly the same as the standard production models in every other respect and with a full 24 month guarantee.
FACTORY DESCRIPTION
SKU Code: TN7/BD/CDB
The MWC NATO chronograph in a stainless steel case is designed to meet the needs of military aircrews, airline pilots, and GA pilots. While based on the same specifications used by several other leading military manufacturers of NATO chronographs, this watch includes several improvements for enhanced operation and visibility. The case size is 45.5mm, and the chronograph uses a high-performance Swiss Ronda 5040.D movement.
Operation:
When you push the top button, you get a crisp response, and the timing hand starts ticking. The stop button at 5 o’clock provides the same crisp feel when stopping the chronograph, and pressing it again snaps the hand straight back to 12. Practical Benefits:
These models are ideal for those who own multiple watches because they don’t need to be wound before wearing them. All they require is a battery swap every few years and a check of the water resistance. One unique aspect is the absence of a tick, making it indistinguishable from a mechanical watch based on behavior alone.
Ronda 5040.D Sub-Dial Functions
Left Sub-Dial (9 o’clock): 60-Minute Chronograph Counter Tracks elapsed minutes when the chronograph is active, up to 60 minutes.
Bottom Sub-Dial (6 o’clock): 12-Hour Chronograph Counter Records total elapsed hours while the chronograph is running, up to 12 hours.
Right Sub-Dial (3 o’clock): Small Seconds Display Displays continuous running seconds for standard timekeeping. This sub-dial runs independently of the chronograph function.
🕹️ Chronograph Controls:
Top pusher (Start/Stop):Starts and stops the chrono.
Bottom pusher (Reset):Resets the chronograph hands to zero (after it’s stopped).
📝 Pro Tip:
If the chrono hands are out of alignment (say, the 1/10th sec hand isn't zeroing properly), you canrecalibratethem via the crown pulled out to the second position — each pusher moves a different hand. This means that whereas with many chronographs they need to be booked into a watchmaker to make minor adjustments. This does not apply in the case of this particular model because it is a simple job to find the calibration yourself if it's ever required.
Key Specifications
Movement: Swiss Ronda 5040.D
Battery: Renata 395
Battery Life: Approx. 54 months
Case Material: 316L stainless steel
Case Diameter: 44mm (excluding crown), 45.5mm (including crown)
Lug-to-Lug: 49mm
Thickness: 13.5mm
Crown: Screw-down locking crown
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Water Resistance: 20 ATM / 200m / 660ft
Dial: Matte black with Super Luminova for maximum visibility in low light
Straps: Supplied with both black and grey 20mm NATO nylon webbing straps
Benefits of Sapphire Crystal:
Synthetic sapphire is extremely strong, shatter-resistant, and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for military and security personnel, police officers, and active outdoor enthusiasts. These groups account for over 70% of our customer base. Our observations show that over 90% of incidents involving cracked watch crystals occur with mineral glass. Even hardened mineral crystals do not match the durability of sapphire. Sapphire crystals are strengthened through heat treatment to remove internal stresses and coated with two layers of anti-reflective coating. Although sapphire crystals are more expensive, they offer superior longevity, resilience, and performance, justifying their use in higher-end watches.
The MWC NATO chronograph in stainless steel combines modern technology's reliability and precision with the rugged design and functionality needed for professional use. Its robust features and user-friendly design make it an exceptional choice for both professionals and enthusiasts.
