Antique WWI German Navy U-Boat Officer’s Alpina Wristwatch – Iron Cross Dial

Presented here is a rare and historically significant Alpina wristwatch from the World War I era, featuring a unique U-Boat (submarine) and Iron Cross dial design. This early wristwatch, converted from a pocket watch format, was likely commissioned for an officer of the Imperial German Navy’s U-Bootwaffe (submarine service) during or shortly after the First World War.

The watch houses the Alpina Calibre 365 movement, a high-grade 15-jewel mechanism typical of Alpina’s precision engineering of the period. The dial features two distinct military emblems — an Iron Cross at 9 o’clock and a finely detailed German U-boat engraving at 3 o’clock — symbols closely associated with German naval heroism and valor.

The case is marked “Acier Staybrite Alpina” with serial number 760420, made from early stainless steel, showing the transitional technology of the 1910s–1920s. The fixed wire lugs and crown-at-12 layout confirm this model’s wartime officer’s trench watch origins.

Historical Context

During the First World War (1914–1918), wristwatches became essential military tools. For naval and U-boat officers, accurate timekeeping was critical for coordinating torpedo attacks, navigation, and surfacing operations. German officers often commissioned or were gifted personalized watches bearing military insignia, and Alpina was among the prestigious manufacturers catering to the officer class.

Alpina, founded in 1883, was a cooperative of elite Swiss watchmakers supplying high-precision timepieces to European militaries. Their watches were renowned for durability and accuracy under extreme conditions — qualities indispensable to U-boat crews enduring the perilous underwater missions of the Great War.

The Iron Cross emblem was awarded for valor and bravery, and the U-boat engraving further indicates this piece’s naval association — likely presented to or purchased by a decorated submarine officer between 1916 and 1918.

Details

• Maker: Alpina
• Movement: Alpina Cal. 365 (manual wind, 15 jewels)
• Case Material: Acier Staybrite stainless steel
• Case Number: 760420
• Dial: Original, cream-tone with Iron Cross & submarine motifs
• Hands: Heat-blued spade hands
• Crystal: Acrylic (replacement)
• Diameter: Approx. 48mm (excluding crown)
• Lug Type: Fixed wire lugs (military/trench style)
• Strap: Modern black leather strap
• Condition: Excellent working order; minor patina consistent with age. Dial remains original and unrestored.

Provenance & Significance

This Alpina U-boat officer’s watch represents a rare piece of German naval history — blending horological excellence with military symbolism. Few authentic WWI-era wristwatches with direct U-boat connections have survived in such condition. It’s a remarkable collectible for enthusiasts of early military watches, naval memorabilia, or German wartime artifacts. The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3500

Shipping & Handling

• Worldwide shipping with tracking and insurance.
• Watch will be safely packed for international transport.
• Please note: as with all antique timepieces, occasional regulation or servicing may be required for long-term accuracy.