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He did all sorts; flew Tiger Moths, worked on carriers as an engineer, helped design the precursor to Blue Streak. He could tell you how to build a missile system, but not if he remembers if it his was his watch, very sad...
Amazing info, thank you, I think I might have seen your name on MWR forum?! I've ordered a leather strap because I would wear it every day if I could, it's beautiful. I'm guessing swapping straps isn't something I can easily do myself?
TooTallTim-
Yes, I post over at MWR. It'll most likely have been issued to him if he worked in the F.A.A. Like I mentioned, these are very rare, so would be awfully coincidental if he acquired one after leaving the F.A.A.
When at work, the watches would be handed out and this would be noted in a pilot's/navigator's log book. When people left, then they often took their watches with them, even though they weren't supposed to. That's why there's a broad-arrow o the back to mark it as government property. These were often filed off after being pinched from work.
You'll need an "open ended" strap to suit the fixed lug bars as they are not removable. Alternatively a "pull through" strap like a NATO type is also suitable. These would originally be worn on either a Bonklip or a tan leather strap.
rodabod
Well, it's probably worth somewhere in the region of £750 without the strap, and the strap I'd maybe add another £100. However, these are rapidly increasing in value. They've maybe doubled in prive in the last few years. Only around something like 7000 were made. There is a more common version marked 6B/159 too. Having an heirloom like this is a fantastic thing. I would ask any relatives if they can give you any information about what he did in the Fleet Air Arm. It's a pilot / navigator's watch. They required chronometer-grade watches to help them navigate using astro-navigation.
I would wear it occasionally. The cases are fragile as they were made with a brittle alloy when steel became too expensive during the war. So, don't let the lugs or strap get knocked as the fixed bars get snapped off easily. You could wear on a leather strap if you preferred.