MWC 1999-2001 Pattern Automatic Military Divers Watch with Sapphire Cr

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We have two of these watches due to arrive in Mid May from the 2025 Border Security Expo. They are both brand new, and in perfect condition but the strap might show signs of having been tried on, and the packaging might be slightly soiled but both have a full 24 month guarantee from the manufacturer.

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MWC 300m Automatic Divers Watch (SKU: DIV2001/SS/AUT)

A Dive Watch with Proven Military DNA and Modern Upgrades

MWC first produced the predecessor to this 300m/1000ft water-resistant dive watch between the early 1990s and 2004. Over the years, the design evolved slightly—especially the dial—but the 1999–2001 version stood out for its clean, highly legible layout and excellent low-light performance. That’s the version we’ve brought back—with some serious upgrades.

While the original watches used tritium lume, the new version uses Luminova for safety and durability. However, we’ve kept the encircled “T” on the dial for historical authenticity.

The Comeback Story: From Forgotten Stock to Modern Classic

This model was discontinued nearly two decades ago. But in an unexpected twist, one of our Australian distributors found 500 brand-new original watches in storage when his father retired and handed over the business. The watches, produced between 1999 and 2001, had been delivered in batches over three years—and the final batch had somehow been forgotten. We bought them back, and unsurprisingly, they sold out fast.

The response was so enthusiastic that we decided to recreate the watch using the original design—but with several key improvements that reflect 20 years of progress in watchmaking.

Upgraded for Today

• Movement: The original quartz movement has been replaced with the robust Miyota 8315 automatic, featuring a 60-hour power reserve, hacking function, and the ability to hand-wind. This kind of power reserve was unthinkable 20 years ago.

• Crystal: We’ve upgraded from hardened mineral glass to a sapphire crystal with a non-reflective coating—highly scratch and shatter-resistant, and now used even in smartphones.

• Bezel: The updated 120-click unidirectional bezel replaces the older 60 or 90-click versions for smoother and more precise operation.

A Legendary Case Design That’s Still Going Strong

The case design is based on a robust and time-tested model originally made by MRP S.A., a respected Swiss case manufacturer founded in 1953. Aside from a few minor tweaks, the case remains faithful to the design from the late 1970s.

This exact case pattern has also been used by iconic brands such as Precista, Nilax, Elvia, Heuer (before becoming TAG Heuer), and Chronosport—who made the Sea Quartz 30, worn by Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I.. Even today, brands like CWC and Elvia continue to use this design due to its outstanding durability and timeless appeal.

Few realize just how significant this case is—it’s been in continuous production for over 40 years and shows no signs of going out of style.

Rooted in Military Tradition

The design of this watch traces its lineage back to the British Ministry of Defence (MOD) specifications—referenced in the final image on this page.

It measures 45mm including the crown (40mm excluding), and fits standard 20mm NATO straps—making it easy to swap between a wide range of strap styles.

Specifications

• Casing: Matt non-reflective stainless steel

• Crown: Screw-down locking

• Water Resistance: 300m / 1000ft / 30 ATM

• Movement: Miyota 8315 (Automatic, 60-hour power reserve, hand-wind, hacking)

• Width: 45mm (inc. crown), 40mm (excl. crown)

• Thickness: 12mm

• Lug to Lug: 46.5mm

• Crystal Diameter: 31mm

• Crystal Type: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating

• Luminous Material: Luminova

• Bezel: 120-click unidirectional

• Weight: 89.5g

• Straps Included: 1 x Black and 1 x Grey NATO-style nylon webbing strap

• Warranty: 24 months

Why Sapphire Crystal?

We’re often asked why sapphire crystal is such a game-changer. The answer is simple: durability. It’s incredibly resistant to scratches and shattering—perfect for military, police, and outdoor use. Over 70% of our customers fall into these categories, and they need gear that holds up under tough conditions.

Even though we previously used hardened mineral glass, sapphire performs significantly better. It undergoes heat treatment to eliminate internal stresses, followed by anti-reflective coating. It's the same material used in high-end watches—and even in the latest iPhones.

Yes, sapphire adds cost, but it’s worth every penny for those who demand reliability and resilience.