Dear All

For sale is this Longines C.O.S.D. “Tuna Can” British Military Wristwatch c.1945

These very rare and unique timepieces were originally thought to have been produced for British WW2 special forces and paratroopers for use during D-Day and Operation Market Garden.

However, this long-established theory now seems unlikely and it is now believed these watches may have been designed and issued for use by specialist underwater demolition teams.

The design of the watch, with its iconic oversized crown and “Tuna Can” waterproof casing, certainly lends itself to the notion it was manufactured for use in underwater activities.

The markings on the case back, C.O.S.D, stands for “Combined Operations Stores Depot”. The Combined Operations Command was established in 1940 by Winston Churchill immediately after the evacuation of Dunkirk and its sole objective was to undertake offensive operations against the enemy via a combination of land, sea and air forces.

Intriguingly, very little is known for certain about these wonderful watches and their specific history and purpose remains unclear. However, what we can be sure of is they are exceptionally rare and very difficult to find, especially in such lovely original condition as the example offered for sale.

The watch for sale is in lovely overall condition and is sold having been recently serviced.

The original factory dial is in wonderful condition with no obvious flaws or blemishes.

The hands and crown are all correct to the original specification of the watch.

As expected, there is some tarnishing, marks and scratches to the outer casing of the watch which is commensurate with age.

The 12.68N calibre movement is in excellent condition and is currently running well and keeping excellent time.

The watch diameter is 36mm.

Please see photos below:

The watch is currently listed for sale on our website for £12,995. The watch comes complete with two new NATO straps and a quality handmade leather watch pouch.

All our items are guaranteed to be completely genuine and authentic examples of their kind. We offer a fourteen-day "no quibble" money-back guarantee on all the items we sell together with a full six-month warranty on all our wristwatches and clocks. This means that you can buy from us with complete confidence.

For further information on the watch for sale please feel free to call us on 0207 117 2807 or email us direct via info@finest-hour.co.uk

Many thanks and regards

Finest Hour

www.finest-hour.co.uk