MWC 1999-2001 Pattern Black PVD Automatic Military Divers Watch - Sapphire Crystal and 60 Hour Power Reserve - Ex Display Watch Reduced
SKU: DIV2001/PVD/AUT
MWC 300m/1000ft Military Diver Watch – Automatic | PVD Case | Sapphire Crystal | Miyota 8315 | 60-Hour Power Reserve
MWC originally produced the predecessor to this 300m/1000ft water-resistant diver’s watch from the early 1990s until 2004. While subtle design elements—such as the dial layout—evolved during that time, the standout favourite remains the 1999–2001 dial pattern, known for its clean, highly legible layout and exceptional night-time visibility. This new model revives that classic dial design, now enhanced with Luminova instead of the original tritium, though the encircled 'T' remains as a nod to the original military design.
A Rediscovered Classic – Reborn and Upgraded
Though the watch was discontinued nearly two decades ago, an unexpected discovery in Australia reignited its legacy. Two years ago, one of our distributors uncovered 500 brand-new watches in storage—left behind when the owner's father retired. These models, manufactured between 1999 and 2001, were originally supplied in batches over three years. One final delivery had been inadvertently shelved and forgotten. When offered the opportunity to buy them back, we didn’t hesitate. Unsurprisingly, they sold out quickly.
Given their popularity, we decided to reintroduce the model—preserving the original design while implementing modern upgrades made possible by two decades of advancement in watchmaking.
Major Enhancements:
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Automatic Movement: Replacing the older quartz models, this version is powered by a Miyota 8315 automatic movement with a 60-hour power reserve—a feature virtually unheard of when the original was produced. The movement is also hand-windable and features hacking for precise time setting.
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Crystal: Upgraded from mineral glass to sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, dramatically improving resistance to scratches and shattering.
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Bezel: Now features a 120-click unidirectional bezel, offering greater accuracy and a more tactile, professional feel than the original 60 or 90-click variants.
Rugged PVD Finish – Built for the Field
The stainless steel case is finished with a non-reflective black PVD coating, a process widely used in military specifications for elite units and covert operations. Unlike painted finishes, which can chip or fade over time, PVD plating alters the steel at a molecular level, creating a durable surface that withstands years of heavy use. While no coating is indestructible, PVD is vastly superior to budget alternatives and won’t degrade under normal or even demanding field conditions.
A Case with a 40-Year Legacy
This model is based on a classic case design originally developed by Swiss case-maker MRP S.A., a company established in 1953 by Marchand, Roth, and Petignat. Still independently owned and going strong, MRP’s designs have been used by iconic brands including Heuer (predecessor to TAG Heuer), Precista, Nilax, Elvia, and Chronosport—whose Sea Quartz 30 was worn by Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I. MWC are also official distributors for Elvia, who still manufacture watches with this case design.
Even today, brands such as CWC and others continue to use this proven case format, which has been in continuous production for over 40 years—a testament to its enduring reliability and appeal.
Military DNA
The overall design of this model follows a classic British Ministry of Defence (MOD) specification, reflected in the last image. It offers the rugged practicality, precision, and heritage that modern military personnel and collectors alike appreciate.
Dimensions & Technical Specifications:
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Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel with Black Non-Reflective PVD Coating
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Crown: Screw-down, locking
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Water Resistance: 30 ATM / 300m / 1000ft
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Movement: Miyota 8315 Automatic with Hacking, Hand-Winding, and 60-Hour Power Reserve
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Width: 45mm (including crown), 40mm (excluding crown)
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Lug to Lug: 46.5mm
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Thickness: 12mm
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Crystal Diameter: 31mm
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Crystal: Sapphire with Anti-Reflective Coating
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Bezel: 120-Click Unidirectional
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Lume: Luminova
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Strap: 20mm Black Nylon Military Webbing (NATO-compatible)
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Spring Bars: Included
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Weight: 89.5g
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Warranty: 24 Months
Why Sapphire Crystal?
We’re often asked: “What makes sapphire crystal so special?” Simply put, it’s the gold standard. Synthetic sapphire is exceptionally strong, resistant to scratches and shattering, and retains its clarity even under tough conditions—making it ideal for military personnel, law enforcement, and outdoor adventurers (who make up over 70% of our customers).
While hardened mineral glass is a decent option, the majority of cracked crystals we see come from mineral-equipped watches. Sapphire, by contrast, is heat-treated to eliminate internal stress and finished with dual anti-reflective coatings. It's no wonder sapphire is also used in high-end smartphones like the iPhone. Yes, it adds to the cost—but for durability and performance, it’s simply unmatched.