Military pocket watches are a fast-growing segment of horological collecting especially watches used during World War II. This Jaeger-LeCoultre Cal 457 served in the British military. The engraving on the case back of this watch tells the story. The G.S.T.P. stamp with the arrow pointing up was a temporary marking for official British military timepieces from 1939 to 1945. G.S.T.P. is an acronym for General Service Timepiece/Temporary Pattern mark for the British Army specifically.

When it comes to authentic World War II military watches, it is important to understand the differences in the stampings on British military issue watches because the G.S.T.P. will have variations that indicate which branch of the military the watch served. For example, Royal Airforce timepieces were stamped with a number series that started with 6B. Whereas the Army issue watches were presented with the stamping like the one found on this watch. The XX marking is a matter of debate among modern historians, and many believe it was a quality stamp, indicating that this Jaeger-LeCoultre was a high-quality timepiece.

This is a rare watch used in a defining moment in history. The legacy of this timepiece can make for a great investigative undertaking to determine the exact history of this watch, from its Swiss-made origins to being put into service in the British Army. Did it see action in Europe, Africa, or in the Pacific against the Japanese? The journey and the story of this watch are worthy of a closer look. Meanwhile, its clearly defined attachment to the World’s Finest Hour makes it an incredible piece of horological history.

This watch is perfect for any military or World War II memorabilia collection, its horological value makes it a rare and important timepiece for collectors. Prefect for everyday carry or display in the office or on the mantelpiece.