We have acquired a quantity ofunused MWC 2001 model PVD stainless steel divers' watcheswhich came via a company which originally purchased them for an ongoing procurement contract between 1999 and 2022. We had come across some of these watches once in the past so as soon as these appeared, we naturally snapped them up because they were extremely popular a few years ago when we had an opportunity to purchase some previously.
These watches are the original versions of the models which are still sold on the MWC factory website today. While MWC still produces variations of this design, these particular models are especially interesting as they date right back when they were first introduced around 25 years ago. The current versions can be seen here
After acquiring the watches, we sent them to our watchmaker, who: ✔ Installed newbatteries ✔ Fitted newseals ✔Pressure-testedthem to ensure water resistance
These watches are inperfect condition, as they have never been removed from their original packaging since being purchased for the contract in2000/2001. Visually, they are nearly identical to current production models, withminor specification differences.
The watch case is PVD treated, a finish often specified in military contracts for special forces units, anti-terrorist units, and various covert operations. In the PVD process, the steel is not black all the way through; the color is created by a special chemical PVD plating process, which is vastly superior to the painted finish used on many budget watches that can easily fade or rub off. The PVD process alters the color of the steel at a molecular level, ensuring it does not deteriorate even during heavy usage, though it can be compromised if the case is badly damaged or worn down by heavy abrasion against rocks or similar surfaces.
Historical Significance & Design
This model wasin production from the early 1990s to 2004. Over time, minor design elements—such as dial layouts—were updated. However, we believe that the1999–2001 dial patternwas the best iteration. It closely resembles thecurrent MWC models, with only small differences in font and detailing.
🧭 Comparable Models
This model was always popular because basically it's a classic British military dive watch design, made not only by MWC but also by other manufacturers such as Precista, ELVIA and CWC, all of these watches have historically used the same case design as have a number of other military manufacturers which is covered below in a bit more detail. For comparison CWC’s current models can be seen here: 🔗 https://www.cwcwatch.com/collections/divers-watches
At a fraction of the price of the newer CWC offerings, these MWC watches represent outstanding value—but quantities are extremely limited.
The watch is particularly interesting because the design traces its lineage back to the British Ministry of Defence specification, as seen in the final images of the listing.
These watches are exceptionallyrareand are likely among thelast original 2001 models available. Having been in storage for over 20 years with anMWC contract client, they are essentiallynew old stock (NOS)—never issued, never used.
Each watch features aSwiss Ronda 705/715 movementand comes with:
A new battery and seals
Pressure testingto confirm its300m water resistance
A 12-month guarantee
MWC tin packaging
Case Design & Legacy
This case design was originally developed byMRP S.A., a renowned Swiss case manufacturer. Established in1953by Marchand, Roth, and Petignat, MRP was later acquired byGeorges Hauert in 1979. Today, the company remainsindependent, under the leadership ofPatrick Hauert.
Aside fromminor updates, the case remains largely unchanged from the late 1970s. Watches using this case pattern have also been produced by the companies below and two of them are still manufacturing watches to the same pattern as they made many years ago.
Precista
Nilax
CWC -Still made in a range of variants
Heuer(before it becameTAG Heuer) – notably for theHeuer 844-1 (1979)
Chronosport– known for theSea Quartz 30, famously worn byTom Selleck in Magnum P.I.
Elvia– Another 1970s manufacturer which continues to produce watches with this case design
This case pattern is historically significant and hasstood the test of time, remaining in continuous production forover 45 years.
For comparison, current CWC diver watches can be found here:CWC Diver Watches. These MWC watches offer similar heritage and build quality at a fraction of the price, but only a small quantity is available.
It seems unlikely that any more of these watches will surface in the future. However, it's impossible to be entirely certain, as the only confirmed figure for MWC's sales of these between 1998 and 2002 is at least 3,000 units based on the fact that their Australian distributor at the time was buying 500 units per year over a period of four years. It is quite apparent that they must've sold large numbers generally but exactly how many and in which countries is hard to determine because so many years have passed.
Specifications
Casing:Black PVDStainless Steel
Crown:Screw-down Locking
Water Resistance:30ATM / 300m / 1000ft
Movement:Swiss Made Ronda 705/715 (60-month battery life)
Packaging: Please note that the packaging remains consistent, but the logo on the tin may vary. We presume that the watches were originally going to different locations. The three images attached show typical examples of these logo variations. Unfortunately, we cannot offer a choice of packaging or tin, as all watches are dispatched directly from our packing and shipping centres.
This model is based on aBritish defense specification, as shown in the final image.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for ahigh-quality, historically significant military diver's watch, this is anexceptional opportunity. Given thesmall available quantity, these are likely the last remainingNOS 2001 MWC divers' watches.
