KM Selza Kriegsmarine Issued Watch / WWII Military Watch (Circa 1940)
This stunning KM Selza service watch, a WWII military timepiece from the German Kriegsmarine, is in original condition and fully functional. It features a classic, minimalist military design with a robust hand-wound Selza caliber 06 movement and small recessed seconds. The chrome-brass case has a diameter of 31 mm (excluding the crown).
The patinated champagne-colored "Radium Dial" showcases Arabic numerals, railroad minute markers, and openworked lance-shaped hands, all finished in a faded radium. At the 12 o’clock position, the designation "km" indicates its military affiliation (KriegsMarine) along with the manufacturer's signature, "Selza," in a two-line format. The steel case back, securely sealed, displays the inventory number 500889, allowing for precise identification of its use within the Kriegsmarine.
The Selza caliber 06 is a slim Swiss lever movement featuring 17 jewels, a Breguet hairspring, and shock protection. The movement is marked with "Selza Biel," the caliber designation, and is elegantly finished with Côtes de Genève. This well-preserved and rare military wristwatch shows signs of age and wear, serving as a valuable testament to its era, and runs intermittently after winding. It comes with a brand new grey NATO strap.
The Selza Watch Company, founded in 1924 by Hans Gisiger in Biel, supplied watches under various brands, including military timepieces for the German armed forces. The KM Selza was among the models provided to the German navy.
This watch is featured on page 270 of Konrad Knirim’s Militäruhren: German Military Timepieces. I can confidently say that my watch is in much better condition than the example shown in the book. According to Konrad, the Selza is a very rare Kriegsmarine watch.
The watch keeps excellent time, and while the original crystal has been replaced, it will be included with the sale.
Overall, this is an exceptionally rare watch in fantastic condition.
Reduced Price: $590 + shipping in CONUS
I’ve been around on this forum for years and have references I can furnish.