Rare Longines C.O.S.D. British Military Paratroopers 'Tuna C...

Hammer

£6,000

Rare Longines C.O.S.D. British Military Paratroopers 'Tuna Can' gentleman's wristwatch, circa 1940s, silvered dial with black Arabic numerals, inner red 24 hour chapter, luminous markers within outer tracking, military arrow, signed gilt cal. 12.68N 16 jewel manual wind movement, no. 6990xxx, nickel plated case with fixed bars, original crown, Company Ordnance Supply Depot issue markings 'C.O.S.D. 2340', expanding bracelet, 36mm (requires repair)
-
** This watch was inherited by a former Royal Navy Engineer Officer from Mrs Jean Harris, the widow of the original owner in 1944, Captain N H Harris MBE MN following his death in 1976.
-
** Captain N H Harris MBE MN was the Second Officer of the SS Fort Stikine, an armed merchant Liberty Ship. On 14 April 1944, the ship, carrying a mixed cargo of cotton bales, timber, oil, gold, and ammunition including around 1,400 tons of explosives with an additional 240 tons of torpedoes and weapons as well as two Spitfires, caught fire in Bombay harbour and was destroyed in two massive explosions. This resulted in the sinking of a further 11 ships in the vicinity and vast devastation in the city surrounding the port area. Some 800-1300 people were killed and 80,000 made homeless in consequence. For his actions in trying to control the fire and subsequently to minimise the impact of the coming explosion, Mr Harris was awarded the Lloyds of London Silver Medal for Meritorious Service. Quite how he survived the incident is beyond comprehension.     

More Information

Movement - the movement is clean and functions but will require attention as the crown is currently seized.
Dial - original dial with nice patina as expected for the period - see image.
Glass - surface marks and small crack.
Hands - original hands with nice patina.
Case - well worn case as expected - please view images for general guidance.
Crown - appears to be the original crown, but is seized and it is not possible to change hands at present.
Bracelet - later replacement.
-
Condition reports are provided for general guidance only. Please view images and further information can be obtained upon request. Gardiner Houlgate do not guarantee the working order or time accuracy of any lots. Due to the opening of the wristwatch case backs, it is recommended watches are re-sealed by professional technicians to ensure any stated water resistance is retained