A 1950 RAF-issued IWC Mark XI featuring a rare hooked 7 dial, tritium lume and legendary calibre 89 movement

IWC has a long-standing association with military timekeeping, producing robust and highly legible watches for various armed forces throughout the 20th century. While best known for its pilot’s watches, the brand also supplied timepieces built to meet strict military requirements, focusing on reliability, clarity and precision. Its involvement with British military-issued watches reflects this commitment, with designs tailored for practical use in demanding conditions, reinforcing IWC’s reputation for functional, purpose-driven watchmaking.

What's on Offer

An icon of British military timekeeping, this 1950 IWC Mark XI represents one of the most respected RAF-issued watches ever produced, built to exacting Ministry of Defence standards.

The matte black dial is all about clarity, with crisp Arabic numerals, a precise minute track and beautifully aged tritium lume, denoted by the circled “T.” A particularly appealing detail here is the hooked 7, a subtle dial variation prized by collectors and indicative of period-correct production. 

The stainless steel case shows honest wear consistent with its age and service, while the fixed bar lugs have been removed and replaced with traditional spring bars which may suit some people as it can be worn on any traditional strap it can still however be used with a NATO-style strap as we have fitted for our images in classic olive green. If you prefer however we can have the fixed bars refitted for you before delivery. 

On the case-back, the military engravings remain visible, including the 6B/346 designation, confirming its RAF issue and adding real historical weight. 

Powered by the legendary IWC calibre 89, one of the finest manual-wind movements of its era, this is a watch built for precision and longevity.

A true military classic—authentic, nuanced, and highly collectible.