MWC first produced the predecessor to this 300m / 1000ft water-resistant professional diver’s watch in the early 1990s, with production continuing until 2004. While minor design details evolved over that period, the 1999–2001 dial layout is widely regarded as the best of the series, thanks to its exceptional legibility, uncluttered design, and outstanding night-time visibility.
This modern version faithfully retains that original dial pattern, using retro-toned luminous paint that closely matches the appearance of MWC watches from over 30 years ago. While the original watches used tritium, this updated model uses Luminova, with the encircled “T” retained for historical authenticity.
Why This Model Exists
Although the original watch was discontinued nearly 20 years ago, an unusual discovery changed everything. Around two years ago, an Australian MWC distributor uncovered 500 brand-new, unused watches during a detailed stock check following a retirement. These watches—manufactured between 1999 and 2001—had been supplied in batches of 500 over three years, with the final delivery inadvertently overlooked.
We purchased the entire remaining stock, and they sold out quickly. Demand was so strong that we decided to re-issue the watch in the same classic design, while incorporating a series of major technical upgrades made possible by advances in modern watch manufacturing.
Modern Upgrades (Without Losing the Soul)
Key improvements over the original model include:
Automatic movement with 60-hour power reserve (unheard of when the original was made)
Manual winding and hacking seconds for precise synchronisation
Sapphire crystal replacing hardened mineral glass
120-click unidirectional bezel (earlier models used 60 or 90 clicks)
These updates significantly enhance durability, accuracy, and everyday usability—without altering the original aesthetic.
Non-Reflective Military PVD Case
The case features a black satin non-reflective PVD finish, a treatment frequently specified in military, special forces, and counter-terrorism contracts. Unlike painted finishes found on budget watches, PVD is a chemical vapour deposition process that alters the surface of the steel at a molecular level.
As a result, the finish does not fade or rub off, even under heavy use. Only severe physical damage or extreme abrasion would compromise the coating.
A Historically Significant Case Design
This watch is based on a legendary case originally produced by MRP S.A., founded in 1953 by Marchand, Roth, and Pétignat. The company remains independent and active today. Official website: https://www.mrp-sa.ch
This same case pattern has been used over the decades by numerous respected brands, including Heuer (predecessor to TAG Heuer), Precista, Nilax, Elvia, and CWC. One particularly famous example is the Heuer 844-1 from 1979.
Chronosport also used this case for the Sea Quartz 30, worn by Tom Selleck in the TV series Magnum P.I..
Few realise just how historically important this case design is—it has remained in continuous production for over 40 years, a testament to its strength, ergonomics, and timeless functionality.
Military Origins
The core design of this MWC diver traces back to British Ministry of Defence (MOD) specifications, illustrated in the final two images.
The watch measures 40 mm excluding the crown (45 mm including crown) and uses a standard 20 mm military nylon webbing strap, allowing compatibility with a wide range of NATO strap options.
Dimensions & Specifications
Case Material: Stainless steel with black satin non-reflective PVD finish
Crown: Screw-down, locking
Water Resistance: 30 ATM / 300 m / 1000 ft
Movement: Miyota 8315 automatic
Power Reserve: 60 hours
Case Width: 45 mm (including crown), 40 mm (excluding crown)
Thickness: 12 mm
Lug-to-Lug: 46.5 mm
Crystal Diameter: 31 mm
Crystal: Sapphire with anti-reflective coating*
Bezel: 120-click unidirectional
Lume: Luminova
Weight: 89.5 g
Strap: Black nylon webbing strap (20 mm)
Spring Bars: Heavy-duty military type
Guarantee: 24 months
Why Sapphire Crystal?
Synthetic sapphire is exceptionally strong, shatter-resistant, and highly scratch-resistant, making it ideal for military, security, law-enforcement, and outdoor use. Over 70% of our customers fall into these categories.
In our experience, over 90% of cracked crystals occur on watches fitted with mineral glass, even when hardened. Sapphire undergoes heat-treatment to remove internal stresses, followed by the application of dual anti-reflective coatings. This is why sapphire crystals are typically found only on higher-end watches—and even on the latest smartphones.
