Record – Original “D – Dienshuhr” German WWI Military Luftwaffe Pilot Watch

The Record Watch Co. was founded in 1903 by a group of investors based in Tramelan, who established the company with the specific aim of acquiring a patent held by the Turin-born engineer Giovanni Sgherlino. The patent concerned an innovative pocket watch with a triangular case and triangular movement, featuring a retrograde hour display—a bold technical and aesthetic concept for its time. In 1916, amid a broader phase of consolidation within the Swiss watch industry, Record merged with other manufacturers and adopted the name Record Dreadnought Watch Co. SA.

This period marked an important stage of industrial expansion and international positioning for the brand. In 1949, the company returned to its original name, Record Watch Co., reaffirming its historical identity and continuity with its early roots. Record Watch Co. of Geneva supplied both Allied and Axis forces during WWII, producing distinct designs for each. The “D” marking denotes Luftwaffe (German Air Force) issue. Record utilized caliber 022K movements with Incabloc shock protection in nickel-plated brass cases.

The company produced approximately 25,000 pieces for German forces from 1940-1945. Luftwaffe D-marked examples exhibit higher collector demand due to Air Force association. Survival rates prove lower than British equivalents, enhancing rarity despite originally larger.

German procurement numbers.

Case material: Chromed metal
Back Style: screw
Diameter: 34 mm
Caliber: Record 022
Rarity: *** rare
Condition: *** good