This watch is closely based on a case design manufactured by MWC in 1985. While watches from that era could not match today's performance standards—particularly in water resistance and features like sapphire crystal—this model retains many of the original design influences while incorporating modern upgrades such as a contemporary Swiss Ronda 715li movement with 10 year battery life.
For several years, customers have requested this model, so MWC decided to produce a limited run for private clients and select dealers. While the original 1985 watches used tritium, this version features Luminova for improved luminosity. However, the encircled "T" marking has been retained for historical accuracy.
This case design and finish is particularly notable as a predecessor to our current range, this case pattern dates right back to the late 1970s.
Historical Background
This model range was originally discontinued nearly 20 years ago. However, an unexpected discovery reignited interest. A few years ago, an MWC distributor in Australia uncovered 500 brand-new watches in their stockroom. These watches, manufactured between 1999 and 2001, had been shipped in batches of 500 over three years. The final batch was overlooked until a stock check was conducted upon the retirement of the owner’s father.
MWC repurchased these watches, which quickly sold out. Due to their popularity, we decided to recreate the design, incorporating modern advancements in watch manufacturing. Two models were specifically introduced and to the range which were the 1973 automatic and the 1985 quartz which have been regularly requested by a large number of buyers.
Upgraded Features:
Movement: The original quartz movement which was used in the 1980s had a very short battery life and was upgraded to the Swiss Ronda 715li which has an extremely long battery life of 10 years this movement also has hacking for precise synchronization.
Crystal: The previous hardened mineral glass was upgraded to sapphire crystal, known for its superior scratch and shatter resistance.
Bezel: The original 60 or 90-click bezel has been upgraded to a 120-click unidirectional bezel for improved functionality.
Design and Specification
The design of this MWC model follows the British MOD specification (refer to the final two images). Unlike other models in this range, which are based on designs from the early 1990s to 2004, this is one of the closest to the original 1973 pattern case.
Case & Dimensions:
Case Material: Chromed Stainless Steel
Crown: Screw-down locking
Water Resistance: 30 ATM / 300m / 1000ft
Dimensions:
Width (including crown): 45mm
Width (excluding crown): 40mm
Thickness: 13.1mm
Lug-to-lug: 46.5mm
Crystal Diameter: 31mm
Bezel: 120-click unidirectional bezel
Weight: 89.5g
Movement & Performance:
Caliber: Ronda 715li
Battery Life: 10 Years
Hacking function
Straps & Accessories:
Strap Type: 20mm nylon military webbing strap
Included Straps: 1 x Black and 1 x Grey Nylon Webbing Straps
Shoulderless Strap Bars
Warranty: 24 Months
Why Sapphire Crystal?
Many customers ask about the advantages of sapphire crystal over standard mineral glass.
✔ Scratch & Shatter Resistance: Synthetic sapphire is extremely durable, making it ideal for military personnel, police officers, and outdoor enthusiasts. These groups account for over 70% of our customers. ✔ Impact Durability: Over 90% of cracked crystals reported by customers involve mineral glass, even when hardened. ✔ Anti-Reflective Coating: Our sapphire crystals undergo heat treatment to remove internal stress, followed by the application of two layers of anti-reflective coating for optimal visibility. ✔ Premium Quality: Sapphire crystals are standard in higher-end watches and even used in the latest iPhone screens due to their superior strength.
While sapphire adds to the cost, its benefits in durability and longevity make it the best choice for serious users.
