Lot 121
Precista. A very rare stainless steel British RAF issue mechanical chronograph wristwatch
Ref.6BB/924-3306, Issue 1017/81, made circa 1981
Auction: London Watches | Lots 18 - 124 | Thurs 19 November 2026 from 2pm
Description
Cal.7733, hand wound 17 jewel movement, matt black dial with white numerals, tritium dots and 12,6 numerals, outer minute track, subsidiary dials for running seconds and 30 minute register, white luminescent hands, stainless steel asymmetric case, screw-down reverse numbered with RAF issue reference and crows foot insignia, solid strap bars. Dial signed, case numbered, movement signed Gallet & Co.
Dimensions
Width 39mm.
Footnote
The Precista RAF issued chronograph is part of the ‘Fab Four’ makers used by the MOD to supply watches for the British military from the 1970s, the makers chosen were Hamilton, CWC, Precista and Newmark. The 6BB Precista chronograph is unquestionably the rarest, issued for one year only in 1981. In research, I was unable to locate any other examples offered in a watch dedicated auction.
This example, not withstanding its rarity, is further enhanced by continued military use. Consigned by an ex RAF Pilot who provided the following statement. ‘The watch was issued to me in 1985 and used by me whilst I was a navigator on VC10 air-to-air refuelling tankers with 101 Squadron from 1987 to 2004. It was subsequently worn by me during the 1st and 2nd Gulf Wars (Operations GRANBY and TELIC respectively) and the ensuing enduring support operations over Northern Iraq and Afghanistan. Notably, it was worn on the second wave of the first night of offensive operations of Operation GRANBY, whilst refuelling Tornado GR1 aircraft.’