Jaeger LeCoultre, Mark 11 (XI), 6B-346, Military RAF Issued Watch, circa 1948

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A Superb Manually Wound Jaeger LeCoultre Mark XI RAF Watch in Fantastic Original Condition with Original Military Engravings, c.1948 An accurate and revolutionary tool watch for the British Royal Air Force; not just for the UK but for many of the Commonwealth countries around the world. The Mark XI's can claim to be the first wristwatch in the world designed from scratch to be anti-magnetic. Both JLC and IWC feature a very thick iron dial, which is cup-shaped and so covers the side of the movement; the movement "iron cover" is similarly shaped and rises to meet the dial sides. This means that the movement is completely encased in a non-magnetic "Faraday Cage", thereby providing a high degree of anti-magnetic shielding. These particular watches were not produced in large numbers, and many were decommissioned from military service later in their lives, a few like ours, live on - thankfully! What's on Offer We are very pleased to offer a fantastic opportunity to own this rare Jaeger LeCoultre Mark 11 RAF watch in superb condition. It is very timely that we have managed to acquire it as we have recently sold one of these pieces and they are becoming more and more sought-after. The watch has been very well preserved given its age of 80 years plus. The dial has all of the hallmarks one would expect to see including the bold white Arabic numerals and military pheon (the arrow on the dial which denotes the watch as property of the MoD). This watch was originally manufactured with either cathedral hands or the boxed stick/syringe hands you see on this example - both are completely original. The hour plots at 12, 3, 6 and 9 still boast their original lume and there is also the same in the hands. The dial is encapsulated underneath shatterproof Plexiglas and encased in stainless steel. The case and lugs are in exemplary condition and to the caseback you will note original military engravings. We had the watch serviced very recently, by our revered military watchmaker, so it is in excellent shape! A fantastic watch with much historical relevance. We do not expect this one to be around for long.