WWI Imperial German Navy Submarine “Kaiserliche Marine” Trench Wristwatch c1916

This timepiece is a classic example of a “transitional” or trench watch. During WWI, the necessity of checking the time quickly during maneuvers moved watches from the pocket to the wrist.

The case back features a highly detailed engraving of the Iron Cross superimposed over a U-Boat (Submarine) silhouette, flanked by the Gothic script “Kaiserliche Marine” (Imperial Navy). These watches were often private purchases or commemorative pieces for sailors and officers serving in the German submarine fleet—a branch that defined the naval conflict of the Great War.

Detailed Specifications

The Dial & Hands

• Aesthetic: Crisp white enamel-style dial with bold black Arabic numerals.

• Military Scale: Features a red “12” and an inner 24-hour track in red (13–24), essential for naval 24-hour timekeeping.

• Hands: Original “Poire” style blued steel hands that still retain a vibrant cobalt hue when they catch the light.

• Sub-dial: Recessed small seconds at the 6 o’clock position.

The Case

• Construction: A robust 32mm nickel or silver-alloy case. This is a three-piece screw case (the bezel and the back both screw onto the center section), a high-end feature for the era designed to protect the movement from the damp, salty environments of naval service.

• Lugs: Fixed wire lugs, characteristic of the earliest wristwatches.

• Case Back: Features the iconic Imperial German Navy submarine insignia and Iron Cross.

The Movement

• Manufacturer: Marked Gilomen Swiss. The Gilomen family was a respected name in Swiss horology (Lengnau), known for producing reliable, high-grade movements for export.

• Quality: 10 Jewels. It features a traditional bridge layout and is currently in clean, visible condition.

Condition Report

• Dial: Excellent vintage condition with minimal aging. Numbers are sharp and legible.

• Case: Shows honest wear consistent with age. The engravings on the back remain deep and clear.

• Crystal: Clear with minor surface marks that do not detract from the view.

• Strap: Fitted with a premium red crocodile-grain leather strap that complements the red accents on the dial.

• Functional Note: The movement winds and ticks. However, as with all 100-year-old mechanical timepieces, a professional service is recommended for daily use and timekeeping accuracy.

Why Add This to Your Collection?

Authentic “Kaiserliche Marine” pieces are increasingly difficult to find, especially those featuring the submarine/U-boat motif. Whether you are a Great War historian, a naval enthusiast, or a vintage watch collector, this piece offers a tangible link to the “Silent Service” of the early 20th century.

Please review all high-resolution photos for a closer look at the stunning engravings and movement details.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $3500