MWC Ltd Edition 1999-2001 Pattern Quartz Day/Date Military Divers Watch with Stainless Steel Case and Sapphire Crystal

MWC Ltd Edition 1999-2001 Pattern Quartz Day/Date Military Divers Watch with Stainless Steel Case and Sapphire CrystalSKU: DV2001 DD QZ SBZ This watch is a strictly limited edition of just 250 pieces, making it a particularly rare release. The watch shown in the images is the pre production prototype. The first batch is scheduled to arrive in July, with subsequent production taking place in a series of small, batches over the following two years. MWC originally produced the predecessor to this 300m (1000ft) water resistant divers watch between the early 1990s and

SKU:  DV2001/DD/QZ/SBZ 

This watch is a strictly limited edition of just 250 pieces, making it a particularly rare release. The watch shown in the images is the pre production prototype.

The first batch is scheduled to arrive in July, with subsequent production taking place in a series of small, batches over the following two years. 

MWC originally produced the predecessor to this 300m (1000ft) water-resistant diver’s watch between the early 1990s and 2004. While minor details evolved over that period, the 1999–2001 dial pattern proved to be the most successful, thanks to its exceptionally clear, uncluttered layout and outstanding low-light visibility.

This model retains that proven dial design. While the original watches used tritium, the current version utilises modern Luminova, delivering excellent night-time performance without the use of radioactive materials.

Rediscovery & Revival

Over 20 years after this range was discontinued, an unexpected discovery brought it back to life. An MWC distributor in Australia uncovered 500 brand-new watches dating from 1999–2001, originally produced for a procurement contract.

Following their rediscovery during a detailed stock check, we acquired the entire batch. Their immediate popularity led directly to the decision to reintroduce the model, preserving its original character while incorporating modern upgrades.

Upgrades & Improvements

Advances in manufacturing over the past two decades have allowed us to significantly enhance the specifications:

• Crystal: Upgraded from hardened mineral glass to sapphire crystal for superior scratch and impact resistance
• Bezel: Improved to a 120-click unidirectional bezel (earlier models used 60 or 90 clicks)
• Movement: Fitted with a Swiss Ronda 517 Day/Date quartz movement

Historical Case Design

This watch is based on a case design originally produced by the Swiss case manufacturer MRP S.A., founded in 1953 and still operating today under Patrick Hauert. The design has remained largely unchanged since the late 1970s—testament to its durability and practicality.

Heritage & Notable Use

This case pattern has been widely used across the industry by brands such as Precista, Nilax, Elvia, and Heuer (pre-Tag Heuer). Notable examples include:

• Heuer 844-1 (1979)
• Chronosport Sea Quartz 30 (famously worn by Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I.)

The design continues to be produced today and has remained in continuous use for over four decades. The overall configuration of this MWC model is also closely aligned with British Ministry of Defence specifications.

Specifications

• Casing: Satin-finished non-reflective stainless steel
• Crown: Screw-down locking crown
• Water Resistance: 30 ATM / 300m / 1000ft
• Movement: Swiss Ronda 517 Day/Date quartz
• Battery: 371 / SR920SW with up to 60 months (~5 years) battery life

Dimensions

• Case Diameter (excluding crown): 44.5 mm
• Case Diameter (including crown): 46.0 mm
• Case Width (2H–8H): 42.5 mm
• Lug-to-Lug Length: 47.5 mm
• Case Thickness: 13.1 mm

Construction & Materials

• Crystal: Sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating
• Bezel: 120-click unidirectional rotating bezel with stainless steel insert
• Luminous Material: Luminova
• Strap Bars: Shoulderless spring bars

Strap & Weight

• Strap: Supplied with an Admiralty Grey NATO Strap
• Weight: 89.5 g

Warranty

• Guarantee: 24-month manufacturer’s warranty

Why Sapphire Crystal?

Sapphire is widely regarded as the premium material for watch crystals due to its exceptional scratch and impact resistance.

In practical terms, the vast majority of cracked crystals occur on watches fitted with mineral glass. Sapphire offers significantly greater durability under demanding conditions, making it the preferred choice for military personnel, law enforcement, and outdoor professionals.

Each sapphire crystal is heat-treated to relieve internal stresses and finished with an anti-reflective coating to enhance clarity. While more costly, it is typically reserved for higher-end watches—and increasingly used in premium consumer devices as well.