MWC first introduced this 300m/1000ft water-resistant diver’s watch model in the early 1990s, with production continuing through 2004. The original models underwent minor changes in dial design, but the clear and easily readable 1999-2001 dial remains a favorite for its uncluttered layout and exceptional nighttime readability. This reissue retains that original dial pattern, and although Luminova replaces the original tritium, the encircled "T" marking remains for historical accuracy.
In an unexpected turn, we discovered 500 unused watches from this line stored by a distributor in Australia. When the current owner’s father retired and a detailed inventory was conducted, these watches—manufactured between 1999 and 2001—came to light. Although they quickly sold out, their popularity inspired us to remake this model with several significant upgrades, capitalizing on advancements in watchmaking. Improvements include a sapphire crystal (replacing the original mineral glass) for enhanced scratch and shatter resistance, and an upgraded 120-click unidirectional bezel versus the earlier 60 or 90-click versions. This reissue also introduces a day/date display.
The watch case is based on a historic design originally crafted by the Swiss case-making company MRP S.A., which has been used by notable brands like Heuer, Precista, Nilax, and Chronosport, among others. First produced in the late 1970s, this case design remains in continuous production over 40 years later, a testament to its durability and appeal. The watch measures 45mm including the crown, 40mm excluding it, and uses a 20mm NATO-style military webbing strap.
Dimensions and Specifications
Casing: Stainless Steel, Satin Finish
Crown: Screw-Down Locking
Water Resistance: 30 ATM / 300m / 1000ft
Movement: Swiss Ronda 517 Day/Date
Battery Life: 45 Months
Dimensions:
Width (Incl. Crown): 45mm
Width (Excl. Crown): 40mm
Thickness: 12mm
Lug to Lug: 46.5mm
Crystal Diameter: 31mm
Crystal Type: Sapphire with Non-Reflective Coating
Luminous Pigment Type: Super Luminova
Bezel: 120-Click Unidirectional
Weight: 89.5g
Straps: Comes with 1 Grey and 1 Black NATO strap
Strap Bars: Solid Fixed
Guarantee: 24 Months
Benefits of Sapphire Crystal Many ask, What makes sapphire crystal superior to mineral glass? Synthetic sapphire is the top choice for durability and scratch resistance, especially favored by military and security personnel, law enforcement, and outdoor enthusiasts who make up over 70% of our customers. In our experience, over 90% of cracked watch crystals involve mineral glass, despite its hardening treatments. Sapphire, however, is stronger due to its manufacturing and heat treatment processes, which remove internal stresses before application of two anti-reflective layers, ensuring clarity and resilience. Sapphire crystals are even used on the latest iPhone models and are commonly found on high-end watches due to these attributes.
