The Past and Present of the Vertex M36: A Modern Homage to the British Military Timepiece

During the tumultuous period of World War II, a pressing need for sturdy, reliable military watches was keenly felt by the British Ministry of Defence (M.O.D.). The answer came via twelve distinguished manufacturers hailing primarily from Swiss territories, as the homegrown British watch industry had largely been reassigned to support the war effort. These manufacturers, which included notable names like Omega, Longines, and Jaeger-LeCoultre, amongst others, crafted what came to be famously known as the ‘Dirty Dozen’ watches.

Distinct among these manufacturers was Vertex, the only British-origin company—albeit Swiss-produced—on the roster. The original line of watches, known as W.W.W. for the British Ministry of Defence, is an eclectic mix of similar designs. Hailed as a collectors’ piece, each brand brought its unique interpretation to the fore, thus making these timepieces highly sought-after.

The year 2024 saw Vertex’s nostalgic stride towards past glories with the launch of the M36. A near-perfect recreation of a Dirty Dozen field watch, it retained the 36mm original watch’s size and matched it with contemporary updates. With brushed stainless steel and a lug-to-lug measurement of 46.5mm, the M36 is a fitting testament to the time-tested appeal of military watches.

In the heart of London, Vertex’s boutique offers a glimpse into this classic timepiece’s journey, unveiling the quintessentially British field watch’s evolution from the tumultuous World War II era to its remarkable reincarnation in modern watchmaking.

In conclusion, the Vertex M36, with its blend of tradition and modernity, continues to echo its storied history while carving its unique space in the ever-evolving world of horology.