Royal Australian Air Force Watches: A Collector’s Five
This article explores five vintage watches with a connection to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), highlighting how Australia adapted British military watch standards with its own markings and cataloging. The collection spans from a 1950s Longines navigator's watch to a 1981 Lemania chronograph, each featuring unique RAAF identifiers on its case back.
- RAAF watches often feature a 'G' prefix added to British stores references (e.g., G6B/346).
- Australian NATO stock numbers for time-measuring instruments begin with 6645-66.
- RAAF watches may include a serial number with a two-digit year indicating the order date.
- The Mark 11 navigator's watch was ordered by the RAAF from Jaeger-LeCoultre and IWC.
- A modern IWC Pilot's Watch Automatic Edition RAAF (ref. IW3281-02) was developed in collaboration with RAAF personnel.
- The Smiths watch discussed may have been issued to either the RAAF or the Royal Australian Navy's Fleet Air Arm.
- The 1981 Lemania chronograph is believed to have been issued to the RAAF, supported by associated documentation.
RAAF case back markings include a 'G' prefix for stores references, a broad arrow, and country code '66' within NATO stock numbers.
The RAAF ordered 1,620 Mark 11 watches from Jaeger-LeCoultre (1950, 1953) and IWC (1957), with the JLC examples featuring 'G6B/346' and the IWC using caliber 89.
The modern IWC Pilot’s Watch Automatic Edition RAAF (ref. IW3281-02) features a blue dial, white numerals, and a red-tipped seconds hand inspired by the RAAF roundel, with a 41mm ceramic case.
The Longines G6B/158 has a 32mm case, a white dial with a red marker at 12 o'clock, and blue hands, powered by the Longines caliber 12.68N.
The Smiths General Service watch, reference 6B/542, has a 36mm case, a black dial with a broad arrow and 'Made in England,' and features hacking seconds and magnetic resistance.
The 1981 Lemania chronograph, identified by NATO stock number 6645-66-071-8382, is powered by the Lemania caliber 5100 and is closely related to a South African Air Force model.