WWII German Etanche Dienstuhr Heer Wristwatch (French-Made)
This original WWII German dienstuhr (service watch) was manufactured by Etanche, a French watchmaker. It is uncertain whether Etanche contracted with the Wehrmacht to produce these watches or if they came from captured French stocks following the German invasion and were re-serialed by the Wehrmacht. It exhibits the iconic black dial with the number "12" beneath "ETANCHE", sub-seconds, and luminescent painted indicators. Additionally, these are usually marked on their caseback with serial numbers, and depending on the format of the serial number, the branch to whom the watch was issued can be determined. This particular watch is marked on its caseback with the serial number "D 0034466 H", denoting use by the Heer. Its original mechanical movement is the Cupillard caliber 233. This watch is in good, running condition, however it could likely benefit from a complete servicing. Its case diameter measures approximately 29 mm, while its stationary "spring bars" are 16 mm wide. The last image shows the timepiece under ultra violet blacklight.
Radium Disclosure
Timepieces from the 1930s and 40s often exhibited dials painted with a luminescent substance known as radium. Radium is radioactive, and is known to cause cancer. Prior to purchasing, buyers should familiarize themselves with the potential health risks associated with collecting vintage timepieces. This particular watch has been tested with a GMC-300S Geiger Counter, and did not indicate the presence of radium higher than that of naturally occuring background levels (i.e., approximately 0.11 µSv/h.).
