Gruen Airflight "24-Hour Dial", 1950s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Gruen was founded in the late 19th century by German immigrant, Dietrich Grun. Based in Ohio, with production primarily handled in Biel/Bienne Switzerland, it at one point had grown to be the largest watch company in the entire US—even larger than household names Hamilton and Bulova—before eventually shuttering its doors forever in 1976. One of the brand's calling cards was their close affiliation with the aviation industry, which is where this Airflight comes in. Its unique dial holds a special secret that was especially useful for pilots – it actually tells the time in 24-hour, "military" time. How? The cut-out indices on the dial show the typical 1-12 hour markers until the time hits noon, at which point the hour markers quickly snap to 13-24 markers. For most of us, it's a novelty and a fun talking point, but for a pilot it would've been super helpful – possibly even instrumental in keeping them on course and on time. Stock # GRNAF Brand Gruen Style Airflight Model N/A Serial N/A Size Men's Material Chrome W/ Stainless Steel Back Dial Silver "12hr-24hr" Millimeters 35 Strap 2pc Handmade Leather Strap CASE & BRACELET The chrome-plated case is in excellent overall condition, showing some honest signs of use with very crisp factory finishing on display. It features a domed crystal and its original Gruen-signed crown. The stainless steel case back is in clean overall condition with minimal wear shown. The watch comes supplied on a brown Craft + Tailored leather strap. DIAL & HANDS The stunning, original silver sunburst dial is in incredible shape, with no signs of patina or age whatsoever. The gold Arabic numerals pop from under the cutout indices and match the fantastic gold combination ring-dauphine handset. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, but the service history is unknown. A movement service can be provided upon request.