Longines 6B/159 RAF Pilots Wristwatch c.1943
These beautiful wristwatches were issued to RAF navigators and pilots during the Second World War.
RAF watches from this period were supplied by several prestigious watch manufacturers including Omega, Jaeger Le-Coultre and Longines. All these watches followed a standard specification, which included a white dial with black Arabic numerals, centre seconds and blued steel non-luminous hands. These watches are commonly referred to by their RAF stores reference number 6B/159. This RAF stores reference refers to aircraft navigation equipment.
The Longines 6B/159 watch for sale was produced around 1943 at the heart of WW2. The watch would have been shipped to Arthur Baume, the Longines dealer in London before being forwarded to the RAF for active service. The last watch of its kind is recorded as being delivered to Baume in London on 31 May 1943.
Interestingly, the watch features a rare and seldom found black Ministry of Defence (MoD) dial variant and original blue steel hands, which have been lumed.
Due to the increasing popularity and appreciation of these watches, Longines has recently produced a homage watch, which is based upon their illustrious wartime 6B/159. Naturally, this has further enhanced the interest and demand for good original examples, such as the one listed for sale.
The Longines 6B/159 for sale, therefore, represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a superb piece of horological and military history.
