A rare and historically significant Swiss-made military pocket watch, produced by ARSA (Auguste Reymond SA) of Tramelan, Switzerland, and issued to the German Wehrmacht (Deutsches Heer) during World War II.
Known as "D-H" service watches, these timepieces were stamped on the caseback with the "D...H" code (Deutsches Heer — German Army) along with an individual issue number. This example bears the stampings D 4737 H, confirming its authentic military provenance. ARSA was one of several Swiss suppliers of service pocket watches to the German military during this period.
The dial presents in classic field-issue style: matte black with luminous Arabic numerals, bold painted hands showing signs of age-related patination, a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o'clock, and a fine minute track around the perimeter — all hallmarks of a watch built for legibility under operational conditions. The stainless steel case shows honest wear consistent with its age and use, adding to its authenticity.
Opening the caseback reveals the movement in good overall condition, signed ARSA on the plate and fitted with the Unitas calibre 239 — a robust, well-regarded pocket watch movement. ARSA owned the movement maker Unitas at one stage during the inter-war period, making the pairing of the two names on military-issued pieces particularly fitting.
During World War II, ARSA produced wrist chronometers for military use, many of which came with certificates from the Neuchâtel Observatory, underlining the firm's reputation for precision in military supply contracts. This pocket watch is a tangible piece of that wartime production legacy.
A compelling addition to any collection of WWII militaria, Swiss horology, or military timepieces.
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