This watch, allocated NSN number 6645-99-969-5589 by the MOD (Ministry of Defence) codification agency, traces its origins to models MWC first manufactured between the early 1990s and 2004. While some design details, such as the dial, have evolved over time, the 1999-2001 pattern dial remains a favorite due to its easily readable, uncluttered layout and excellent nighttime performance. This watch retains that original dial pattern.
Key Upgrades:
Movement: Upgraded from the Ronda 705 (5-year battery life) to the Ronda 715li, which requires a battery replacement only once every 10 years.
Crystal: Upgraded from hardened mineral glass to sapphire crystal, which is highly scratch and shatter-resistant.
Bezel: Improved from a 60 or 90 click bezel to a 120 click bezel.
These enhancements, combined with its high specifications, have garnered significant attention from various procurement agencies, leading to the allocation of an NSN number, making it available to NATO forces worldwide.
PVD Finish: The PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) finish is often specified in military contracts for special forces units, anti-terrorist units, and covert operations. The PVD process alters the color of the steel at a molecular level, making it highly durable and resistant to fading or rubbing off, unlike painted finishes on budget watches. The PVD-treated case can withstand heavy usage, though it may be compromised by severe damage or abrasion.
Historical Significance: These watches are based on a case design originally made by the Swiss case-making firm MRP S.A. Founded in 1953, MRP S.A was bought by Georges Hauert in 1979 and remains an independent company. The case design has seen minimal changes since the late 1970s. Besides MWC, companies like Precista, Nilax, Elvia, Heuer (predecessor to Tag Heuer), Chronosport, and CWC have used this case pattern. This case design has been in continuous production for over 40 years, demonstrating its historical significance and durability.
Specifications:
Casing: Stainless Steel with matte finish
Crown: Screwdown Locking
Water Resistance: 30ATM/300m/1000ft
Movement: Ronda 715li with 10-Year Battery Life
Case Diameter: 42.25mm (2 o’clock to 8 o’clock)
Width (Including Crown): 46mm
Width (Excluding Crown): 44.5mm
Thickness: 13.1mm
Lug to Lug: 47.5mm
Crystal Diameter: 31mm
Crystal Type: Sapphire with non-reflective coating
Luminous Paint Type: Luminova
Bezel: 120 Click Unidirectional
Weight: 89.5g
Strap: Black heat-welded NATO webbing strap
Fixed Solid Strap Bars
Guarantee: 24 Months
Benefits of Sapphire Crystal: Synthetic sapphire is the best material for watch crystals due to its strength and resistance to shattering and scratching. These characteristics make it ideal for military and security personnel, police officers, and active outdoor enthusiasts, who account for over 70% of our customers. Unlike mineral glass crystals, sapphire crystals undergo heat treatment to remove internal stresses, making them more durable under adverse conditions. Although more expensive, sapphire crystals are usually fitted to higher-end watches, including this model.
For more information on MRP S.A, visit their website.
