Ailager is a dedicated militaria maker specialising in accurate reproduction military timepieces from the Second World War. Rather than producing delicate mechanical showpieces, the brand builds utilitarian field watches fitted with dependable modern quartz movements. This practical approach gives living historians, outdoor enthusiasts, and vintage watch collectors the iconic look of wartime service kit without the four-figure price tag or constant servicing demands of original antiques.
Wartime Specifications Rebuilt for Daily Use
Original issue timepieces manufactured under wartime government contracts were designed for strict legibility, water resistance, and field durability. Ailager recreates these exact historical specifications using robust stainless steel cases, scratch-resistant crystals, and high-contrast dials with luminescent markings. Each piece features period markings on the case back, alongside 3 ATM water resistance to withstand rain and wet woodland conditions.
British Army Field Standards: The Dirty Dozen and Commando
Towards the close of the war, the British Ministry of Defence commissioned twelve Swiss watchmakers to produce custom wristwatches known under the WWW (Wrist Watch Waterproof) standard. The Ailager® British Army Dirty Dozen Watch (from £51.95) captures this renowned pattern with its stark black dial, railroad minute track, and dedicated sub-seconds register at six o'clock. Fitted with an olive drab webbing strap, it provides an understated profile that sits comfortably alongside surplus woollen service dress or modern field kit.
Ailager® British Army Dirty Dozen Watch
from £51.95For frontline raiding operations, British units required an even hardier design. The Ailager® The Commando British Army Watch (from £51.95) reflects this tactical requirement, featuring bold luminous Arabic numerals housed in a polished case with an embossed WWW steel back. Its reinforced brown canvas strap lined with soft backing ensures comfortable wear during long days in the field.
Allied Aircrews and Tactical Chronographs
Across the Atlantic, the United States military standardised the iconic A-11 navigation timepiece for infantry officers and USAAF aircrew. The Ailager® "The G. I." A-11 Military Service Watch (from £51.95) delivers that clean, functional layout with high-visibility white numerals on a matte black face and an outer minute track. Its compact military proportions make it an ideal everyday field watch that fits neatly under heavy jackets or windproof smocks.
Ailager® "The G. I." A-11 Military Service Watch
from £51.95Aviation timepieces required specialised complications for dead-reckoning navigation and target timing. The Ailager® German Luftwaffe Pilot Chronograph Watch (from £94.95) is modelled on the dual-pusher fluted-bezel chronographs issued to wartime pilots. Featuring a dual-register bicompax dial and an external rotating bezel, this model combines classic aviation geometry with modern battery reliability.
Choosing the Right Military Field Watch
Selecting between these models comes down to your personal kit requirements and period preference. If you want a classic British Army profile for living history or outdoor use, the Dirty Dozen and Commando models offer proven military simplicity. For aviation enthusiasts or those seeking distinctive wrist presence, the A-11 and Luftwaffe Chronograph provide distinctive functional character that handles everyday wear with ease.