The Lost Navigator 6BB-6645 99-5238290 RAF Wristwatch c.1976
The Lost Navigator is considered to be something of an enigma amongst vintage military watch collectors and enthusiasts.
At first glance, it appears to be very similar in terms of appearance and specification to the more commonly found Hamilton and CWC wristwatches produced for the British military throughout the 1970s.
However, The Lost Navigator differs due to its sterile dial and case which, intriguingly, does not feature any brand or makers markings. Consequently, we do not know who actually produced these watches. Furthermore, the A.Schilds 2160 calibre hacking movement of the Lost Navigator is a higher grade than that of the ETA 2750 movement which powers its Hamilton and CWC counterparts.
It is believed only around 2,000 of these watches were produced, all of which were issued to the RAF in 1976.
Interestingly, Hamilton’s contract to supply wristwatches to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) ended in 1976 and CWC took over the supply at around the same time. It is, therefore, possible The Lost Navigator was produced as a potential replacement to the Hamilton wristwatches shortly before CWC procured the contract.
We may never know the complete history regarding The Lost Navigator 6BB. However, its rarity and the mystery surrounding its production make it an extremely appealing proposition to any serious vintage military watch collector or enthusiast.
