RARE WWI German Army Tank Brigade Officer Award Alarm Pocket Watch | Totenkopf

An exceptionally rare and historically significant WWI German Army Tank Brigade officer’s award alarm pocket watch. Housed in a robust 50.5mm gunmetal case with gold-filled trim, this museum-grade timepiece features a specialized hinged back that allows it to stand upright as a desk or campaign clock. The case back is masterfully engraved with military honors, distinctly marking it as a specialized award for the early armored divisions.

During the First World War, the deployment of armored tanks was a revolutionary and highly dangerous new frontier of combat. Awards specifically designated for tank brigades from this era are incredibly scarce.

The reverse of this case features a highly detailed engraving depicting an early WWI-era tank advancing across a battlefield within a central shield, framed by a traditional oak leaf military wreath. Above the shield sits the Totenkopf (skull and crossbones). While sometimes mistaken for an aviation insignia, the Totenkopf was the traditional emblem of elite German cavalry (the Husaren), a lineage that was later adopted by and directly evolved into the armored tank divisions (Panzerwaffe). This distinct iconography confirms its provenance as a Tank Brigade award.

Detailed Specifications

• Case Details :

  • Material: Dark gunmetal with striking gold-filled trim on the crown, bow, and hinges.

  • Diameter: 50.5mm (excluding crown/bow).

  • Special Feature: The outer case back features a built-in hinged stand, allowing the watch to be propped up on a desk or nightstand—a highly practical feature for a commanding officer in the field 

  • Engraving : Deep, crisp engraving of a Totenkopf skull over crossed bones, surmounting a shield that displays an early tank, all bordered by a classic military wreath.

• Dial & Hands :

  • Original, pristine white enamel dial.

  • Bold, highly legible Arabic numerals.

  • Two sunken sub-dials: An alarm-setting dial at the 12 o’clock position and a running seconds dial at the 6 o’clock position.

  • Original hands featuring aged green luminescence.

• Movement :

  • High-quality Swiss-made mechanical movement equipped with an alarm complication.

  • Stamped with “SWISS MADE” and patent registrations “D.R.P.” (Deutsches Reichspatent) and “BREVET S.G.D.G.” (French patent).

  • The movement is clean, well-preserved, and features exposed alarm hammer mechanics.

Condition Report

• Aesthetic Condition: Perfect antique condition. The gunmetal retains a beautiful, deep original patina that contrasts perfectly with the gold-filled accents. The enamel dial is flawless, free of hairlines, chips, or restorations. The military engraving on the reverse is incredibly sharp and has not been polished down.

• Mechanical Condition: The watch is currently running, and the alarm complication engages as intended. (As with all antique mechanical timepieces, a routine service by a professional horologist is recommended for optimal daily timekeeping accuracy).

Shipping & Handling: The timepiece will be meticulously cataloged, securely packaged with substantial protective padding, and shipped via fully insured, expedited courier service with signature confirmation required upon delivery. International buyers are welcome; please review your local customs duties prior to bidding.

Please review all provided high-resolution photographs carefully, as they are an integral part of the description.