54023: Longines, Rare C.O.S.D. "Tuna Can" British Milit

Longines, Rare C.O.S.D. "Tuna Can" British Military Wristwatch, circa 1945 Case: 35 mm, nickel plated metal, two body, oversize crown, fixed bars between the lugs, screw down case back engraved with broad arrow, 2072, C.O.S.D. 2340, No. 2340 Dial: silvered metal, black Arabic numerals, inner red 24 hour numerals, outer minute track, luminous blued steel needle hands, arrow form center sweep hand Movement: gilt finished manual wind movement, caliber 12.68 N, 16 jewels, No. 6896490 Band: leather strap with steel buckle Signed: Longines on the dial and movement This rare and iconic timepiece was originally thought to have been produced for British WW2 special forces and paratroopers for use during D-Day and Operation Market Garden. There is also a theory that these watches may have been designed for use by underwater demolition teams. The markings on the case back, C.O.S.D, stands for "Combined Operations Stores Depot". The Combined Operations Command was established in 1940 by Winston Churchill immediately after the evacuation of Dunkirk and its sole objective was to undertake offensive operations against the enemy via a combination of land, sea and air forces.

HID03101062020

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Condition Report: Type: Longines, Rare C.O.S.D. "Tuna Can" British Military Wristwatch, circa 1945Dial: silvered metal, black Arabic numerals, inner red 24 hour numerals, outer minute trackHands: luminous blued steel needle hands, arrow form center sweep handMetal: nickel plated metalCase: #No. 2340Case Info: two body, oversize crown, fixed bars between the lugs, screw down case back engraved with broad arrow, 2072, C.O.S.D. 2340Case Width: 35 mmCase Thickness: 12 mmCrystal: acrylicWatch Movement: gilt finished manual wind movement, caliber 12.68 N, 16 jewels, No. 6896490Band: leather strap with steel buckleCondition: This ultra-rare military watch presents in good, all original overall condition. Movement runs and sets as it should. Heritage does not guarantee timekeeping accuracy. We always recommend servicing for daily use and timekeeping accuracy. Heritage Auctions strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Heritage regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only And should Not be relied upon as statements of fact, And do Not constitute a representation, warranty, Or assumption of liability by Heritage. All lots offered are sold "As Is"

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