LeCoultre – Pilot Original 1940`s 24Hr. Dial Steel Watch – Cal. 450 / 3A

This vintage LeCoultre 24-hour wristwatch, dating from the 1940s, belongs to a small and historically significant group of pilot-oriented timepieces produced by Jaeger-LeCoultre during the Second World War.

While not officially issued as military equipment, models such as this were often acquired privately by pilots and aviation professionals for their practical functionality, particularly the 24-hour dial format, which was useful for reading military or aeronautical time without ambiguity.

The watch has a 33.5 mm stainless steel case (measured excluding the original crown), which is in very good condition, showing only minor signs of wear. The screw-down caseback is correctly signed and has the appropriate serial numbers. The plexiglass crystal is clean and free of cracks or scratches.

The original silvered two-tones dial shows both a 12-hour and an inner 24-hour scale, with bold Arabic numerals and a minute track at the outer edge. The layout is designed for quick legibility, and the black Alpha hands are original to the model. The dial has developed an even patina consistent with age, though all printing and numerals remain well-preserved and easily readable.

This watch is powered by the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 450/3A, a manual-winding movement known for its robust construction and use across various watches of the 1940s. The 450 family was introduced during wartime and offered stable timekeeping, low maintenance requirements, and good resistance to shocks—qualities that suited professional use in aviation or field conditions.

The watch is fitted with a vintage-style leather strap, appropriate to the period and in excellent condition.

It has been serviced in-house and is fully operational. It is delivered with our six-month guarantee and originality certificate.

Worldwide shipping is available. Further details are available upon request.