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When i was in college Army ROTC in 1980, the PMS (professor of Military Science/Commanding officer) was a LTC Special Forces-5th SF officer. He wore a Rolex Sub with the De Oppressor Libre emblem soldered on the clasp. It was so bitchin' looking. A few years later as a young LT i bought my own Sub to reward myself for being sent to 3 years in a miserable CONUS post. Had it for 22 years. Left the army after one tour. Work in private industry, went to law school, passed the bar, and worked as an attorney with that Sub.
My sterile 34mm Benrus Field Watch I was issued in Vietnam is still with me today and it still runs great after 50+ years. Mine was made in August 1967. ~I removed it's 18mm nylon strap in favor of a rubber strap. I still wear it occasionally.
I was a civilian working with the Air Force special forces people in the seventies. They issued me one of these . I still have it. Although it's gone through a lot of rough handling in those days. Wished I could get it refurbished. God bless America
When I served in the U.S Army, the only watch and last watch I wore was a Timex digital Ironman watch. Never failed me. In basic training (1989) I was able to afford and bought at the PX only a cheap throwaway green plastic Timex, analog manual winding watch. I found later during my training that it was a mistake getting it. So finally I bought my Timex Ironman for a few bucks more. It was very useful through out my Army career until I retired. Honestly, I couldn't afford those fancy watches talked about on this video during those times. Good for those that have.
I served in the US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) from 1980-1992, mainly in Latin America. My watch of choice was a Sea-Dweller. I still own and wear one.
mbapache64 I. I Bought it. Most of my team Members bought/wore Submariners. A couple wore Seiko divers. I remember I got a deal on the SD. At the time, I knew little about watches. It had a Lexan (acrylic) crystal. I don’t recall there being polywatch or even thought of removing its scratches myself so about every 2 weeks I’d take it to a jeweler to get the scratches bugged out. That really bothered me.
We could obtain with relative ease, especially if the Supply Officer or Supply Sgt was a friend, the Hamilton 113. I wore that watch until the day arrived when the PX got a shipment of Rolex GMT Masters. As a young lieutenant on what one might call a limited budget, I paid a visit to the Navy Federal trailer parked outside the PX and promptly borrowed a massive $300.00 or so to get the watch. It remains today in perfect running order. I also still have the little field compass that attached to the web band on the supply issue 113. It’s a bit worn but it still works as well.
Some fun facts about the field/military watches: Hamilton is still making actual field watches that are tougher than ever. They use Tissot's modified PRS80 which is an eta base without the plastic escapement and it is free-sprung balance. Marathon watch is on contract with the government to make watches for soldiers and medical professors. G-shock is the most used military watches in the current times because of you-know-why. Seiko 5 is as the field watch is one of the unsung heroes as it is one of the cheapest watches White dial watches are supposed to be used to not blind the users in snowy places because they bounce the light off.
Thank you for this Tippy! Hamilton and Marathon definitely deserve more attention (and I'd like to focus on them more in the future) Its incredible how field watches are still in circulation today...
Back in the 1990s during Yugoslav wars most of the soldiers used Seiko 5s of all kinds. My dad included. It was a cheap tough enough watch. Most of them didn't know G shocks existed when the war started 91 (Croatia) 92 (Bosnia) and tought they were toys when they appeared on wrists of US and other western peace forces.
It’s because if you wear a Rolex in country it will get damaged eventually and it’s expensive to repair. I carried the classic g shock for 4 years and it’s been through salt water, snow, heavy rain, desert sand storms, and heavy rocks falling on it. Still works, never failed. It’s not sexy but it’s practical.
I served in the US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) from 1980-1992, mainly in Latin America. My watch of choice was a Sea-Dweller. I still own and wear one.
@@xMoDzProductions Rolex watches are a lot tougher than you think. Many SF guys today prefer the automatic Rolex's over electronic G-Shocks. No batteries you need to worry about changing which would otherwise be impossible to get during deployments, no electronics that would be affected by extreme cold or extreme heat, and Rolex's are ISO/deep dive rated.
It’s because they were cheap in Southeast Asia, a vast majority of Vietnam vets probably could only dream of owning a Rolex had they never been soldiers
Before I joined the Army I had settled on a Zodiac Sea Wolf. It was the only watch that survived me. It took me through Basic, AIT, OCS, Airborne, Special Forces Officers Course, Special Forces Underwater Operations Course, and one tour of Vietnam. In Vietnam our Sergeant Major and I were the only ones scuba trained when there was a boat accident in front of our boat dock on the Bassac River. Two water taxis sank. Our HQ sent down two scuba rigs for us, and we dove down to search for bodies, none were found. It wasn't a deep dive, maybe 30 feet, compared to one training dive in Florida to 135 feet. I always knew the correct time. After leaving the service the watch didn't survive me getting drunk and night diving in Greenwood Lake in NJ. Jumped into the water with it. Noticed it was gone some time later. My next watch was, of course, a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf.
@@justinjohnpalmer More history of the Zodiac watches. When they were winding back production on the Sea Wolf and Super Sea Wolf, some one got worried they would lose repair parts for the ones they were using. So they bought out as many parts and watches they could. Who did this, you may ask. Jacques Cousteau's people. At least that is what I heard back then. My Super finally gave up the ghost. The counter balance weight would come off, so it wouldn't wind itself. I fixed it a couple times until one screw broke while removing it. Bummer. I put all the parts in a glass jar where it lived for decades. I finally considered getting a pro to try to fix it, but the repair was many times what I had originally paid. Like $400 +. But I no longer needed an expensive dive watch. And the watchmaker was into them and was a high end repair and restorer. He bought the parts from me, at a very good price. He said he was gonna fix it up proper for his dad, who also collected them.
When I was in Iraq our jamming equipment blew up g shocks and our suunto. So lots of us went with luminox and cheap marathon mechanicals. I was us marines infantry. Demolitions mainly
A coworker of mine brought to work a Vietnam era Seiko 5 watch his father was issued during the Vietnam War. He was an officer in SOG.The watch was running fast and stopping at times. Initially he didn't get it serviced because he thought the service cost would surpass the value of the watch . I suggested that since it's his fathers watch he should have it serviced. I did a search on e-bay and google and found out it was a special procurement of watches by SOG from Seiko and could go for over $1000.00. That changed everything the service cost about 100 bucks and he comes into work sometimes wearing his dads watch.
@@ID-Guy He thought it was just a run of the mill Seiko. One I showed him how horologically significant his Dad's watch was the look on his face was priceless.
As a Special Forces officer in VN, I wore a couple of Seiko watches at different times. Easier to get versus a Rolex. I first wore a Seiko that was simple and inexpensive and had a stainless steel watchband, then because it did not glow in the dark, I bought a Seiko dive watch with a rubber watchband, which I understand was discontinued because it infringed on Rolex patents (solid machined case and a screw down sealed winding crown). This one was much more expensive, but had luminous numbers and hands, including a second hand, which I used for timing artillery shells at night. I still have both.
You tell the story of telling the time, and you do it well. These hypnotic videos about the history of military watches command me to listen, and then listen again. Maybe it's not just the teller. Maybe the story itself is also highly compelling. At any rate I have truly enjoyed this video and one or two others that you have made in a similar vein.
I served with that guy wearing the 5th Special Forces flash beret in your video thumbnail. We often ribbed him because he had been a recruiting "poster boy" in the 1980s. We still wore the Vietnam flagged flash until 1985. His photo was taken in the early 1980s and I don't believe he was a Vietnam vet. Still a great guy and and cool photo.
I just read across the fence by John Stryker Myer of MACV-SOG he talks about his "luminous" seiko watch. He says it's so bright he had to hide it under his gloves as to not give him away.
We would cut the top 4 inches off a summer weight field sock fasten the strap over half of it then double it over the face of the watch to hide its reflection during daylight and lume come hours of darkness.
Thank you for featuring my Bathy and Sub submissions on your last live show (check it out, those just visiting). As per this video, watches are all well and good. But, it's the personal stories we attach to the objects that remain closest to us, that are of most importance. My pepsi Seiko Samurai has just bust a gasket, but - have taught my son to swim whilst wearing it over last couple of years. Even if it never runs again, will always be with me
And that's ultimately what makes them so special at the end of the day, absolutely. Speaking of which, I've been playing around with the idea of a "Testimonial" series that's in the works ;) Maybe it's got some legs. Thanks a lot for the comment, Charles!
Always interesting to watch these historical highlights of watches that were worn by different people. This time American soldiers in the Vietnam 🇻🇳 war. Some really nice pieces highlighted by you here. Very interesting stuff. As always, another great video my friend. ✊
It was a monster to put together, but hell, it's always great seeing it come together. Thank you as always, brother! Hope you're still doing well and keeping busy!
Wow! Yet another amazing video IDGuy, well done sir! I really enjoy these videos on military watches. My favorites of this episode are the Glycine Airman, the Rolex GMT Master 1675 and the Tudor Mil Sub. Thank you.
There are just so many pieces that we'd all lust over on this list... the Tornek Rayville... Benrus DTU... It was such a pleasure sinking my teeth into their histories. Thank you as always, Blueshirt!
As a new subscriber I enjoyed this video, the stories behind every single watch and of course it was nice to see one of my favourites watches, which is the Seiko 6105-8110 that my grandfather gave me a few years ago and that in addition to loving me,it still works perfectly and is in great condition. Many thanks for your video and for sharing.
Thanks a million Lee! I really wanted to blend History with Design in this one (and it was so great looking at a point in time instead of following a full series of watches over the decades) BUT I've been working on a new episode "Watches of the French Armed Forces" Which is about 65% done and the history behind those pieces is eye-opening!
From 1965 till 1992 in USSR Army we knows Komandirskie and Amphibia by Vostok (Восток)😂 It was best of the best for us))) another watches we did not see))) and this watches can buy soldiers and officers in specials military market only, citizen can not to buoyed Komandirskie, it was Soviet Law) sorry for my English) Hello 🤝👋 from Russia 🇷🇺
This is exactly why mechanical movements will forever be a part of watches and why smart watches just can’t make the cut. These will take a beating, be exposed to the elements, and never be near electricity and keep on moving. The same can’t be said for a fragile, electric, smart watch that needs to be charged. Smart watches also don’t have the style, aesthetics, beauty, and history that mechanical time pieces possess. It’s a bond between human and watch.
Rayville is kind of an anagram of the town Villeret (french, can be pronouced as: Villeray). Villeret was the town where Blancpain was founded in 1735 and headquartered for over 200 years. Later "Villeret" became a collection of Blancpain watches.
It was a mammoth writeup, not going to lie ;) The sound recording thrashed my voice by the end (2 hours worth), but hell, it's always a pleasure seeing the final product. Thanks a million, brother!
An uncle of mine served with 5th SF in Vietnam in 1967. The professional SF soldiers (my uncle only served one enlistment) wore Rolex watches and Ray Bans. Mind you, these were not issued watches like the MacV Sog Seiko. They bought their own. Also, in a book about the early days of SF called “Aaron Banks’ Children”, there’s a line about early SF sergeants being guys who showed up at Ft Bragg every so often with “a bag of laundry, a Rolex watch, and an erection.”
I can tell you that (especially with Ray Bans) things were the same on the other side of the world. My old man was a part of the Rhodesian Light Infantry SAS and did well over 1000 jumps. Look up the "Rhodesian Bush War" Lots of Vietnam vets (professional soldiers) came over and helped out the special forces on that side. Dad tells me they were "crazy". Anyway, all the SAS paratroopers were issued these incredible Aviators. They are the only pair of sunglasses he has ever owned (from about 1973). Thanks for the comment Patrick
IDGuy I’ve always been interested in the RLI. A lot of Rhodesians in the old LRDG, too, another long time fascination for me. Some of those books about the Bush War get very pricey though.
A long time ago, I volunteered to serve in a foreign army and ended up in a combat tracker unit. Everyone in the team were told to get a robust, watertight watch, and even when this was pre-G-Shock days, most ended up getting similarly looking black digital Casios. No idea what models they were as I wasn't into watches then. For myself, it was a Seiko, only because the watch shop I stumbled into happened to sell a lot of Seikos, and also I liked the watch model's name: SilverWave Z.
As a big fan of your channel I cannot explain how I missed on this one since I am so interested into that period and conflict. Thanks to the algorithme I finaly saw it and I learned a lot thx and keep on the good work
My dad was 1st force recon and had a Tornek-Rayville. he has tons of pictures of him wearing it in Vietnam. He was able to keep it somehow and it lived in his glove compartment for years. It was no longer working and he didnt really know what to do with it since you cant exactly service it due to the polonium so he threw it away. DAMN IT........
@GuitarD30 Hey there, wondering if you have any more info about your father's Tornek-Rayville, I am working on a story and any details from back in the day would be great.
Thanks a million, Craig! It was a monster to put together, but it feels great seeing the finished product (with the watches all in one place, you know?)
Great video - well researched. One slight correction though - the triangular lumed hour markers with arabic numerals on the Zodiac Sea Wolf were not unique but are cribbed from the early 1950s Eterna KonTikis. Eterna created that design.
This is truly an excellent video! Thank you! I think you may be on to something with the Rolex GMT red, white and blue as well. Just a thought, PX's are also located on US bases and my guess is many of the watches you describe were purchased at these post exchanges before the soldiers shipped out. Of course, the PX's overseas were very important as morale boosters to the troops. Back in the day I noticed many Rolex watches for sale there myself, as well as many of the other brands. (Nowadays, not so much!) I myself purchased a Chronosport in one, a watch made by Breitling I believe. (Still have it.) If I may, we used to be concerned about the glint of light a flat crystal might provide an enemy soldier and thereby betray our position. As a result, we used to wear wide nylon, velcro straps to cover the watch. One problem was that when checking the time one had to pull back the velcro which made a racket. As a result, I've often believed that a true field watch needed a curved crystal.
Thank you for your insights Malik! Fascinating! Just on the point of wearing watches in those situations (I'm sure many didn't for that reason) My old man and the boys of the Rhodesian Light Infantry would use their socks to cover them up ;) Such amazing histories tied to these little time-tellers. Thanks again for the comment!
@The Watch Colonel Found this in the Rolex forums: "Yup, those were the days when Rolex was sold in the PX/BX/NEX. They first stopped selling them in US stores (late 70s), then in overseas stores (90s). AAFES used to sell Rolex in its catalog many years ago for OCONUS buyers only. They no longer sell them and haven't since at least 1999 if memory serves." This rings true to me.
@@ID-Guy You're welcome! Food for thought: those using divers for diving, or pilots, didn't mind a flat crystal. Only infantry or combat arms types would care. imho, a curved crystal distinguishes a field watch from the others. I'd be interesting to see if the DoD wrote that into the contract specs.
We used the cut down sock over your watch here in the New Zealand Army too. I remember using electrical tape to cover the bling of my grandfather's Seiko while in the field sometimes.
I really wanted to add a few more stories with other pieces (but testimonials are hard to come across and it probably would have turned into an hour long video haha!) Thanks a lot, Chris
It's going to happen! I'm really enjoying these "snippets" of watch history instead of covering all of the watches from a country ;) Hamilton's & Elgin's need some more of the limelight
Thanks a million, Tony! Wouldn't you believe but I have a video on the "Watches of the French Armed Forces" in the works (began it a few weeks before this) So! It will be out soon. Thanks for the comment, brother
Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed this historical look back at an interesting time in U.S. warfighting, and the timepieces that kept the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines on target.
An absolute pleasure, Neel. I really enjoyed discussing their designs in more detail as well (instead of only focusing on their background) Thank you for the comment!
Of related interest: the small American brand MKII offers perfectionist/improved new releases of classic military watches. For example the Paradive 3 isa reborn Benrus Type 1, and they boughtthe Tornek-Rayville brand as well forthat remake.
My dad was an Australian Advisor with a ARVN Armored unit, working under American command, so he used all American equipment. Dad brought home his issued field watch, which looks similar to the Benrus, but has a green plastic case that seems to be sealed. There are no manufacturers markings on it though so I assume it was a mass produced ' throw away ' made for the military.
I have the O&W M5 a reissue of the Surfmaster sold in the PX shops in Vietnam,I also have a curio in the MWC Vietnam reenactor's copy of the typical field watch issued by the army A black resin case and field watch dial,a quartz movement replaces the 5 jewel movement of the original watch.Very simple but it does the job and has the look required................
I’ve always loved watches! This is an excellent video! I can’t afford real expensive watches but I can still appreciate an attractive, functional pice of art! Thank You Sir!
I'd settle on a Blancpain "Military" ;) But what a watch... Just imagine the killing they would make if those pieces were ever remade and reissued today?
Being a bit of a mad Steve McQueen fan, I bought several Mil-Spec watches some years ago. I have 3 Benrus, 2 Bulova & 1 Hamilton. Yeah I got on a roll after my first Benrus!🤣 They have never been serviced to my knowledge but all still keep very good time.👍🏼😎🇦🇺
In my time in (conventional forces, only a non-combat deployment), I saw mostly Garmins and G-Shocks. The guys I met who were into watches were mostly rocking Seikos. Only notable exception would be the guy I deployed with who wore a Hublot on a leather strap 😂
Nothing beats them, Paolo. We get to learn so much about the reasons for them being so favoured (and just how their technology has evolved over the years) Thanks for the comment, brother!
Superb...I was in later during the colld wat. I had baught a Pulsar Quarts as a junior rescue aircrewman. My senior Petty Officer wore the Seiko Diver. He made more bucks.
The various issue watches such as the Benrus all looks similar because they were made to a DOD design specification. They weren’t copying each other rather all were made to the requirements laid down for that type watch.
The VN war was fought with most GIs wearing a Timex, a GI issue field model (Benrus and many other makers), possibly a Seiko. Lots of Speidel bands. Our base wage, monthly for enlisted soldiers was less than $400. Certainly adds credo to the Timex jingle then "takes a licking and keeps on ticking". Of course some GIs who were watch aficionados and went upper crust, a Rolex or similar. Lots of special units were issued Tudor Subs and others but the bulk worn were over the counter nothing special watches that lasted you the 12 month tour. I bought a PX Seiko 6105, nobody called them that, it was just the Seiko diver which lasted me an entire 1970s decade of hard military use. I gave it to my bonefish guide on Christmas Island he's probably still wearing it.
I still have my Glycine Airman purchased for $56.25 at the Base Exchange at Thule AFB, Greenland in June 1966. It still exists and works though it is now mostly retired to a drawer it is worn occasionally. I love the 24 hour dial. It was fun to be sitting on the subway and somebody would be looking at the watch trying to catch the time but not wanting to ask me. I imagine the wondered why I was wearing a watch that was obviously "wrong". The Glycine was replaced on my Wrist by a Rolex GMT "Pepsi" purchased in Geneva in 1968 for 180 USD
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Bought my Zodiac Sea Wolf at the PX in DaNang,1967, still have it, still keeps good time.
Awesome!!!
Out of curiosity, What would it take to get that off your hands?
@@froggyspond1133 weirdo
When i was in college Army ROTC in 1980, the PMS (professor of Military Science/Commanding officer) was a LTC Special Forces-5th SF officer. He wore a Rolex Sub with the De Oppressor Libre emblem soldered on the clasp. It was so bitchin' looking. A few years later as a young LT i bought my own Sub to reward myself for being sent to 3 years in a miserable CONUS post. Had it for 22 years. Left the army after one tour. Work in private industry, went to law school, passed the bar, and worked as an attorney with that Sub.
My sterile 34mm Benrus Field Watch I was issued in Vietnam is still with me today and it still runs great after 50+ years. Mine was made in August 1967.
~I removed it's 18mm nylon strap in favor of a rubber strap. I still wear it occasionally.
Das Piper wow. Very nice. Thank you for your service to our country as well!
Thank you for serving our country.
I was a civilian working with the Air Force special forces people in the seventies. They issued me one of these . I still have it. Although it's gone through a lot of rough handling in those days. Wished I could get it refurbished. God bless America
What kind of watches did ARVN soldiers wear?
When I served in the U.S Army, the only watch and last watch I wore was a Timex digital Ironman watch.
Never failed me.
In basic training (1989) I was able to afford and bought at the PX only a cheap throwaway green plastic Timex, analog manual winding watch. I found later during my training that it was a mistake getting it. So finally I bought my Timex Ironman for a few bucks more. It was very useful through out my Army career until I retired.
Honestly, I couldn't afford those fancy watches talked about on this video during those times. Good for those that have.
I served in the US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) from 1980-1992, mainly in Latin America. My watch of choice was a Sea-Dweller. I still own and wear one.
Jose in Talisay; that’s a 7500 watch today. Did you buy it or was it issued?
mbapache64 I. I Bought it. Most of my team
Members bought/wore Submariners. A couple wore Seiko divers. I remember I got a deal on the SD. At the time, I knew little about watches. It had a Lexan (acrylic) crystal. I don’t recall there being polywatch or even thought of removing its scratches myself so about every 2 weeks I’d take it to a jeweler to get the scratches bugged out. That really bothered me.
We could obtain with relative ease, especially if the Supply Officer or Supply Sgt was a friend, the Hamilton 113. I wore that watch until the day arrived when the PX got a shipment of Rolex GMT Masters. As a young lieutenant on what one might call a limited budget, I paid a visit to the Navy Federal trailer parked outside the PX and promptly borrowed a massive $300.00 or so to get the watch. It remains today in perfect running order. I also still have the little field compass that attached to the web band on the supply issue 113. It’s a bit worn but it still works as well.
Some fun facts about the field/military watches:
Hamilton is still making actual field watches that are tougher than ever. They use Tissot's modified PRS80 which is an eta base without the plastic escapement and it is free-sprung balance.
Marathon watch is on contract with the government to make watches for soldiers and medical professors.
G-shock is the most used military watches in the current times because of you-know-why.
Seiko 5 is as the field watch is one of the unsung heroes as it is one of the cheapest watches
White dial watches are supposed to be used to not blind the users in snowy places because they bounce the light off.
Thank you for this Tippy! Hamilton and Marathon definitely deserve more attention (and I'd like to focus on them more in the future) Its incredible how field watches are still in circulation today...
Tony they’re virtually indestructible.
@@LNR65 And cheap at the PX!
@Tony they sell them cheap at soldier shops in plain English
Back in the 1990s during Yugoslav wars most of the soldiers used Seiko 5s of all kinds. My dad included. It was a cheap tough enough watch.
Most of them didn't know G shocks existed when the war started 91 (Croatia) 92 (Bosnia) and tought they were toys when they appeared on wrists of US and other western peace forces.
Today most soldiers wear gshock, and can only dream of owning a rolex... A bit sad if you ask me
It’s because if you wear a Rolex in country it will get damaged eventually and it’s expensive to repair. I carried the classic g shock for 4 years and it’s been through salt water, snow, heavy rain, desert sand storms, and heavy rocks falling on it. Still works, never failed. It’s not sexy but it’s practical.
I served in the US Army Special Forces (Green Berets) from 1980-1992, mainly in Latin America. My watch of choice was a Sea-Dweller. I still own and wear one.
@@xMoDzProductions Rolex watches are a lot tougher than you think. Many SF guys today prefer the automatic Rolex's over electronic G-Shocks. No batteries you need to worry about changing which would otherwise be impossible to get during deployments, no electronics that would be affected by extreme cold or extreme heat, and Rolex's are ISO/deep dive rated.
It’s because they were cheap in Southeast Asia, a vast majority of Vietnam vets probably could only dream of owning a Rolex had they never been soldiers
@@hochspannunglebensgefahr5339 how a rolex cheap
Before I joined the Army I had settled on a Zodiac Sea Wolf. It was the only watch that survived me. It took me through Basic, AIT, OCS, Airborne, Special Forces Officers Course, Special Forces Underwater Operations Course, and one tour of Vietnam. In Vietnam our Sergeant Major and I were the only ones scuba trained when there was a boat accident in front of our boat dock on the Bassac River. Two water taxis sank. Our HQ sent down two scuba rigs for us, and we dove down to search for bodies, none were found. It wasn't a deep dive, maybe 30 feet, compared to one training dive in Florida to 135 feet. I always knew the correct time.
After leaving the service the watch didn't survive me getting drunk and night diving in Greenwood Lake in NJ. Jumped into the water with it. Noticed it was gone some time later. My next watch was, of course, a Zodiac Super Sea Wolf.
ha, cool story. ive been looking at the sea wolf.
@@justinjohnpalmer More history of the Zodiac watches. When they were winding back production on the Sea Wolf and Super Sea Wolf, some one got worried they would lose repair parts for the ones they were using. So they bought out as many parts and watches they could. Who did this, you may ask.
Jacques Cousteau's people.
At least that is what I heard back then.
My Super finally gave up the ghost. The counter balance weight would come off, so it wouldn't wind itself. I fixed it a couple times until one screw broke while removing it. Bummer. I put all the parts in a glass jar where it lived for decades.
I finally considered getting a pro to try to fix it, but the repair was many times what I had originally paid. Like $400 +. But I no longer needed an expensive dive watch. And the watchmaker was into them and was a high end repair and restorer. He bought the parts from me, at a very good price. He said he was gonna fix it up proper for his dad, who also collected them.
When I was in Iraq our jamming equipment blew up g shocks and our suunto. So lots of us went with luminox and cheap marathon mechanicals. I was us marines infantry. Demolitions mainly
Seiko 6105 is the most iconic watch of period for me. Very beautiful
A coworker of mine brought to work a Vietnam era Seiko 5 watch his father was issued during the Vietnam War. He was an officer in SOG.The watch was running fast and stopping at times. Initially he didn't get it serviced because he thought the service cost would surpass the value of the watch . I suggested that since it's his fathers watch he should have it serviced. I did a search on e-bay and google and found out it was a special procurement of watches by SOG from Seiko and could go for over $1000.00. That changed everything the service cost about 100 bucks and he comes into work sometimes wearing his dads watch.
Such a cool story and thank you for sharing Wally! We can't put a price on a story like that either... it's amazing that those pieces held up so well.
@@ID-Guy He thought it was just a run of the mill Seiko. One I showed him how horologically significant his Dad's watch was the look on his face was priceless.
As a Special Forces officer in VN, I wore a couple of Seiko watches at different times. Easier to get versus a Rolex. I first wore a Seiko that was simple and inexpensive and had a stainless steel watchband, then because it did not glow in the dark, I bought a Seiko dive watch with a rubber watchband, which I understand was discontinued because it infringed on Rolex patents (solid machined case and a screw down sealed winding crown). This one was much more expensive, but had luminous numbers and hands, including a second hand, which I used for timing artillery shells at night. I still have both.
I also have the Benrus Field Watch that I was issued in 1967.
You tell the story of telling the time, and you do it well. These hypnotic videos about the history of military watches command me to listen, and then listen again. Maybe it's not just the teller. Maybe the story itself is also highly compelling. At any rate I have truly enjoyed this video and one or two others that you have made in a similar vein.
I served with that guy wearing the 5th Special Forces flash beret in your video thumbnail. We often ribbed him because he had been a recruiting "poster boy" in the 1980s. We still wore the Vietnam flagged flash until 1985. His photo was taken in the early 1980s and I don't believe he was a Vietnam vet. Still a great guy and and cool photo.
I just read across the fence by John Stryker Myer of MACV-SOG he talks about his "luminous" seiko watch. He says it's so bright he had to hide it under his gloves as to not give him away.
mgmmaze great book.
We would cut the top 4 inches off a summer weight field sock fasten the strap over half of it then double it over the face of the watch to hide its reflection during daylight and lume come hours of darkness.
Fantastic release ! I really enjoyed this one. Thank you for putting the time into it.
An absolute pleasure Sean. It's always a treat seeing the finished product ;)
Thank you for featuring my Bathy and Sub submissions on your last live show (check it out, those just visiting). As per this video, watches are all well and good. But, it's the personal stories we attach to the objects that remain closest to us, that are of most importance. My pepsi Seiko Samurai has just bust a gasket, but - have taught my son to swim whilst wearing it over last couple of years. Even if it never runs again, will always be with me
And that's ultimately what makes them so special at the end of the day, absolutely. Speaking of which, I've been playing around with the idea of a "Testimonial" series that's in the works ;) Maybe it's got some legs. Thanks a lot for the comment, Charles!
Always interesting to watch these historical highlights of watches that were worn by different people. This time American soldiers in the Vietnam 🇻🇳 war.
Some really nice pieces highlighted by you here. Very interesting stuff. As always, another great video my friend. ✊
It was a monster to put together, but hell, it's always great seeing it come together. Thank you as always, brother! Hope you're still doing well and keeping busy!
Oh, look! Its Thomas Burnett!!
Wow, feels like I visited a museum with a guide after watching this video. Really great presentation.
Seiko Willard is my favourite watch....period.
I'm so happy that it was left till last. It really is the one watch that defined that era (at least, I believe) Thanks a lot for the comment, brother!
@Watch Aficionado I wore the 6105 while I served in Vietnam. Pity Martin Sheen wore the wrong model year.
@@ID-Guy, Good review. What branch of the military did you serve?
Have always loved that and the Submariner. Have a Sub but so want the Seiko. A Turtle or one of the many homage watches now out there won't do.
Wow! Yet another amazing video IDGuy, well done sir! I really enjoy these videos on military watches. My favorites of this episode are the Glycine Airman, the Rolex GMT Master 1675 and the Tudor Mil Sub. Thank you.
There are just so many pieces that we'd all lust over on this list... the Tornek Rayville... Benrus DTU... It was such a pleasure sinking my teeth into their histories. Thank you as always, Blueshirt!
As a new subscriber I enjoyed this video, the stories behind every single watch and of course it was nice to see one of my favourites watches, which is the Seiko 6105-8110 that my grandfather gave me a few years ago and that in addition to loving me,it still works perfectly and is in great condition. Many thanks for your video and for sharing.
That was awesome! Proud to say that I have one of them...the Benrus 1966 issue.
The Milsub is watch perfection.
Been waiting for this one
I think it was because of your recommendation that I decided to do it, man. Such a great set of pieces. Thanks as always for the comment!
@@ID-Guy Got a new pic of the Willard up on my IG page if interested
Outstanding historical video, and thanks also for the other links! Great content on your channel, as always.
Thanks a million Lee! I really wanted to blend History with Design in this one (and it was so great looking at a point in time instead of following a full series of watches over the decades) BUT I've been working on a new episode "Watches of the French Armed Forces" Which is about 65% done and the history behind those pieces is eye-opening!
From 1965 till 1992 in USSR Army we knows Komandirskie and Amphibia by Vostok (Восток)😂 It was best of the best for us))) another watches we did not see))) and this watches can buy soldiers and officers in specials military market only, citizen can not to buoyed Komandirskie, it was Soviet Law) sorry for my English) Hello 🤝👋 from Russia 🇷🇺
Another fantastically-researched, informative video. I used to own a Glycine Airman 18. Loved that watch and the history behind it.
This is exactly why mechanical movements will forever be a part of watches and why smart watches just can’t make the cut. These will take a beating, be exposed to the elements, and never be near electricity and keep on moving. The same can’t be said for a fragile, electric, smart watch that needs to be charged. Smart watches also don’t have the style, aesthetics, beauty, and history that mechanical time pieces possess. It’s a bond between human and watch.
You have such a good voice for this. Easy and soothing to listen to. You should do audio books.
Rayville is kind of an anagram of the town Villeret (french, can be pronouced as: Villeray). Villeret was the town where Blancpain was founded in 1735 and headquartered for over 200 years. Later "Villeret" became a collection of Blancpain watches.
A lot of work went into this and it shows - thanks
It was a mammoth writeup, not going to lie ;) The sound recording thrashed my voice by the end (2 hours worth), but hell, it's always a pleasure seeing the final product. Thanks a million, brother!
Fantastic history lesson - entertaining and informative - Thank you Guy 😊👍
An uncle of mine served with 5th SF in Vietnam
in 1967. The professional SF soldiers (my uncle only served one enlistment) wore Rolex watches and Ray Bans. Mind you, these were not issued watches like the MacV Sog Seiko. They bought their own. Also, in a book about the early days of SF called “Aaron Banks’ Children”, there’s a line about early SF sergeants being guys who showed up at Ft Bragg every so often with “a bag of laundry, a Rolex watch, and an erection.”
I can tell you that (especially with Ray Bans) things were the same on the other side of the world. My old man was a part of the Rhodesian Light Infantry SAS and did well over 1000 jumps. Look up the "Rhodesian Bush War" Lots of Vietnam vets (professional soldiers) came over and helped out the special forces on that side. Dad tells me they were "crazy". Anyway, all the SAS paratroopers were issued these incredible Aviators. They are the only pair of sunglasses he has ever owned (from about 1973). Thanks for the comment Patrick
IDGuy I’ve always been interested in the RLI. A lot of Rhodesians in the old LRDG, too, another long time fascination for me.
Some of those books about the Bush War get very pricey though.
A long time ago, I volunteered to serve in a foreign army and ended up in a combat tracker unit. Everyone in the team were told to get a robust, watertight watch, and even when this was pre-G-Shock days, most ended up getting similarly looking black digital Casios. No idea what models they were as I wasn't into watches then. For myself, it was a Seiko, only because the watch shop I stumbled into happened to sell a lot of Seikos, and also I liked the watch model's name: SilverWave Z.
The Glycine Airman Special really sing to me!
The classics will never die
Outstanding review! My favorite is the "modified" Blancpain.
As a big fan of your channel I cannot explain how I missed on this one since I am so interested into that period and conflict. Thanks to the algorithme I finaly saw it and I learned a lot thx and keep on the good work
Always enjoy your videos keep up the good work getting better all the time !!
Thanks a million, Junior. This was a biggie, but it's so worth it in the end (seeing all the pieces in one place) I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
My dad was 1st force recon and had a Tornek-Rayville. he has tons of pictures of him wearing it in Vietnam. He was able to keep it somehow and it lived in his glove compartment for years. It was no longer working and he didnt really know what to do with it since you cant exactly service it due to the polonium so he threw it away. DAMN IT........
@GuitarD30 Hey there, wondering if you have any more info about your father's Tornek-Rayville, I am working on a story and any details from back in the day would be great.
Brilliant video
Thanks a million, Craig! It was a monster to put together, but it feels great seeing the finished product (with the watches all in one place, you know?)
My favorite video of yours yet!
Wow! An excellent and comprehensive video on the subject
Thanks a lot, man! It was great seeing the final result (with all the watches in one place, you know?) Really appreciate the comment
Great video - well researched. One slight correction though - the triangular lumed hour markers with arabic numerals on the Zodiac Sea Wolf were not unique but are cribbed from the early 1950s Eterna KonTikis. Eterna created that design.
Outstanding!! I love the history you put behind these pieces.
Such a pleasure Chris. It was a treat to put together (the recording, not so much) but the final edit always makes it worth it ;)
IDGuy,
Would love to see an episode on WW1, WW2 and Korea watches.
This is truly an excellent video! Thank you! I think you may be on to something with the Rolex GMT red, white and blue as well. Just a thought, PX's are also located on US bases and my guess is many of the watches you describe were purchased at these post exchanges before the soldiers shipped out. Of course, the PX's overseas were very important as morale boosters to the troops. Back in the day I noticed many Rolex watches for sale there myself, as well as many of the other brands. (Nowadays, not so much!) I myself purchased a Chronosport in one, a watch made by Breitling I believe. (Still have it.) If I may, we used to be concerned about the glint of light a flat crystal might provide an enemy soldier and thereby betray our position. As a result, we used to wear wide nylon, velcro straps to cover the watch. One problem was that when checking the time one had to pull back the velcro which made a racket. As a result, I've often believed that a true field watch needed a curved crystal.
Thank you for your insights Malik! Fascinating! Just on the point of wearing watches in those situations (I'm sure many didn't for that reason) My old man and the boys of the Rhodesian Light Infantry would use their socks to cover them up ;) Such amazing histories tied to these little time-tellers. Thanks again for the comment!
@The Watch Colonel Found this in the Rolex forums: "Yup, those were the days when Rolex was sold in the PX/BX/NEX. They first stopped selling them in US stores (late 70s), then in overseas stores (90s). AAFES used to sell Rolex in its catalog many years ago for OCONUS buyers only. They no longer sell them and haven't since at least 1999 if memory serves." This rings true to me.
@@ID-Guy You're welcome! Food for thought: those using divers for diving, or pilots, didn't mind a flat crystal. Only infantry or combat arms types would care. imho, a curved crystal distinguishes a field watch from the others. I'd be interesting to see if the DoD wrote that into the contract specs.
We used the cut down sock over your watch here in the New Zealand Army too. I remember using electrical tape to cover the bling of my grandfather's Seiko while in the field sometimes.
Jeez...the days when one had no choice
but to wear a mechanical watch.
Great great great video! I especially appreciate the story that went with the Sub. Thanks
I really wanted to add a few more stories with other pieces (but testimonials are hard to come across and it probably would have turned into an hour long video haha!) Thanks a lot, Chris
What a great summary of vintage military tools. Congrats with cheers fm Singapore+
Please do American WW2 watches! My grandfather was a Marine in the pacific.
Good for him. But what about you?
It's going to happen! I'm really enjoying these "snippets" of watch history instead of covering all of the watches from a country ;) Hamilton's & Elgin's need some more of the limelight
Another great and detailed episode, cant wait for the next one
Thanks a million, Tony! Wouldn't you believe but I have a video on the "Watches of the French Armed Forces" in the works (began it a few weeks before this) So! It will be out soon. Thanks for the comment, brother
Excellent video, thanks!
Such a pleasure, Talia! Thank you for the comment!
Absolutely LOVE your perspectives on the history of these watches.
Thank You Again!!
(Subscribed and thumbs up!!)
Brilliant video. Reed is going to love this one 🙏🙏👏👏
Thanks so much Mark! I really hope you're well - We missed you during Saturday's show ;)
IDGuy Hi. I apologise. I watched it after but we had a family call. Hope you are keeping well.
Yes, I thoroughly enjoyed this historical look back at an interesting time in U.S. warfighting, and the timepieces that kept the soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines on target.
Another great video !!
The Chronosport udt was an excellent watch plus used in navy seal movies by Steven Sagal And Sylvester Stallone
Great video and very informative! Thank you 🙂
Bravo! Great video and very well researched, as always!
An absolute pleasure, Neel. I really enjoyed discussing their designs in more detail as well (instead of only focusing on their background) Thank you for the comment!
I am lucky to own 4 watches on this list : Rolex 5513, Tudor Sub 7928, Rolex GMT 1675 and a1969 benrus watch military.
Great video my friend 👍🏼
Always a pleasure bringing these out, brother. It was a monster to put together but seeing the end result is always a treat! I hope you're well!
Just bought a MWC … Beautiful, simple, no nonsense, quality
I really enjoyed this video, now I start liking Tudor
Very informative. Very interesting, Overall just excellent. Thank You!
OUTSTANDING video (as always)!
Of related interest: the small American brand MKII offers perfectionist/improved new releases of classic military watches. For example the Paradive 3 isa reborn Benrus Type 1, and they boughtthe Tornek-Rayville brand as well forthat remake.
Great historical/informative video! Thanks for sharing.
Excellent presentation - very helpful for collectors. Thanks!
This is a really great overview. Thank you!
My dad was an Australian Advisor with a ARVN Armored unit, working under American command, so he used all American equipment. Dad brought home his issued field watch, which looks similar to the Benrus, but has a green plastic case that seems to be sealed. There are no manufacturers markings on it though so I assume it was a mass produced ' throw away ' made for the military.
I have the O&W M5 a reissue of the Surfmaster sold in the PX shops in Vietnam,I also have a curio in the MWC Vietnam reenactor's copy of the typical field watch issued by the army
A black resin case and field watch dial,a quartz movement replaces the 5 jewel movement of the original watch.Very simple but it does the job and has the look required................
I’ve always loved watches! This is an excellent video! I can’t afford real expensive watches but I can still appreciate an attractive, functional pice of art! Thank You Sir!
Fantastic video, I really appreciate this.
The TR900 you featured is my no1 grail, alongside the Chs Frod. Double Impulse
Gah, don't want to increase competition for these pieces
I'd settle on a Blancpain "Military" ;) But what a watch... Just imagine the killing they would make if those pieces were ever remade and reissued today?
Brilliant presentation
Great video for that era. Now it's all Casio and for good reason. Tough, Cheap and a lot of bells and whistles a lot are solar now to so perfect :)
Being a bit of a mad Steve McQueen fan, I bought several Mil-Spec watches some years ago. I have 3 Benrus, 2 Bulova & 1 Hamilton. Yeah I got on a roll after my first Benrus!🤣 They have never been serviced to my knowledge but all still keep very good time.👍🏼😎🇦🇺
In my time in (conventional forces, only a non-combat deployment), I saw mostly Garmins and G-Shocks. The guys I met who were into watches were mostly rocking Seikos. Only notable exception would be the guy I deployed with who wore a Hublot on a leather strap 😂
Awesome video. Very informative
Awesome research, thank you so much (love military watches and the story behind)
Nothing beats them, Paolo. We get to learn so much about the reasons for them being so favoured (and just how their technology has evolved over the years) Thanks for the comment, brother!
Superb...I was in later during the colld wat. I had baught a Pulsar Quarts as a junior rescue aircrewman. My senior Petty Officer wore the Seiko Diver. He made more bucks.
“How I was almost killed during the Vietnam War thanks to a Rolex Submariner.”
UDT/SEAL always had Rolex. Most purchased at the NEX. Some issued. The Bar Girls would say "Big watch means little dick".
The various issue watches such as the Benrus all looks similar because they were made to a DOD design specification. They weren’t copying each other rather all were made to the requirements laid down for that type watch.
Excellent content. Bravo 👏🏼 🇺🇸
The VN war was fought with most GIs wearing a Timex, a GI issue field model (Benrus and many other makers), possibly a Seiko. Lots of Speidel bands. Our base wage, monthly for enlisted soldiers was less than $400. Certainly adds credo to the Timex jingle then "takes a licking and keeps on ticking". Of course some GIs who were watch aficionados and went upper crust, a Rolex or similar. Lots of special units were issued Tudor Subs and others but the bulk worn were over the counter nothing special watches that lasted you the 12 month tour. I bought a PX Seiko 6105, nobody called them that, it was just the Seiko diver which lasted me an entire 1970s decade of hard military use. I gave it to my bonefish guide on Christmas Island he's probably still wearing it.
👏 that was great! Thank you for Great content
I still have my Glycine Airman purchased for $56.25 at the Base Exchange at Thule AFB, Greenland in June 1966. It still exists and works though it is now mostly retired to a drawer it is worn occasionally. I love the 24 hour dial. It was fun to be sitting on the subway and somebody would be looking at the watch trying to catch the time but not wanting to ask me. I imagine the wondered why I was wearing a watch that was obviously "wrong". The Glycine was replaced on my Wrist by a Rolex GMT "Pepsi" purchased in Geneva in 1968 for 180 USD
Fantastic Document
Did the USMC Force Recon use any in particular? In the photos you can't tell what brand they are, but they weren't diving.
Crackin vid, man!
I wonder what Simon the watch guy thinks of your videos.
I still have my issue type II, and wear it daily!
Excellent video, 👏
I own a Blue Tudor Snowflake, I love that watch.
Great video
Thanks a lot Laurence! It was great putting it together (and seeing all the watches in one place)
Great work!
I love coming back to this video. What kind of straps did they use?
Часы Мартина Шина в "Апокалипсис сегодня" -Seiko 6105.
Современная версия этих часов Seiko Prospex 1970 Diver’s Re-Creation Limited Edition SLA033.
Great Watch Video