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Air Ministry Split Second Stopwatch, Mk.VA

SOLD

Code: SOLD-1558



Stores ref. 6B-129. This stopwatch has a split-second chronograph action and was used to perform complex performance tests, bombing runs and for navigational use. White metal case approx. 6cm diameter. White dial with twin subsidiary dials measuring seconds from 1-60 and minutes from 1-30. Arabic numerals. It has a 17-jewel keyless eight-hour keyless Swiss movement with beats to one fifth of a second and two centre second hands rated to one revolution per minute. It is provided with two control knobs. Successive pressings of the large central knob start, stop and reset both centre hands of the chronograph as well as operate the 30-minute counter gear. When the side knob is pressed the lower centre second hand stops enabling the user to make interim timings. This knob has no control of the 30-minute counter. If the pendant knob were first pressed so as to bring the centre seconds hand into action, a sequence of pressings on the side knob causes the lower centre seconds hand alternately to stop and then fly into sync with the upper second hand. Pressing the pendant knob again then stops both centre hands and a further depression will reset them. The case is in good used condition with King@APOS@s Crown, Air Ministry markings, reference numbers and 1938 date code. It also engraved @APOS@University of Liverpool@APOS@. I have been told that this where these were developed but cannot confirm this. Both knobs function correctly and the watch bow is original. The dial is in excellent condition. The back cover is hinged and a hinged dust cover sits beneath. There is some scratching/burring where the latter has been opened. The movement works correctly although the centre second hands are not quite directly in line with each other - see photos. Was recently serviced. A high quality timepiece. Stock code C19053.