A. Lange & Söhne B-uhr World War II Luftwaffe Pilot/Aviator Watch
The A. Lange & Söhne B-uhr FL23883 is a remarkable piece of horological history, specifically designed for the Luftwaffe during World War II. Known as a "Beobachtungsuhr" or "B-Uhr," this pilot's watch was a crucial tool for navigation and mission timing for German pilots and navigators.
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SPECIFICATIONS
Brand: A. Lange & Söhne
Model: B-uhr World War II Pilot's watch
Reference Number: FL23883
Movement:
Manual winding
Condition: Good
Gender: Men’s
Time Period: 1940s
Box: No
Papers: No
THE CALIBER
Caliber: n/a
Jewels: 22
THE CASE
Case Material: Stainless steel with an anti-magnetic iron core
Case Diameter: 55mm
Thickness: 20mm
Waterproof: n/a
Bezel Material: Fixed steel
Glass: Plexiglass
Caseback: Solid
Dial: Black, Type B
Dial Numerals: Arabic numeral white painted indices hour indices around the inner five-minute division around the outer rim. White painted seconds stick division around the outer perimeter. Arrow-shaped marker at 12 o'clock
THE BRACELET / STRAP
Bracelet Material: Original oversized brown leather
Buckle: Tang
Buckle Material: Steel
THE FUNCTIONS
Hours, minutes, center seconds
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FURTHER READING
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE During World War II, the Luftwaffe commissioned five manufacturers, including A. Lange & Söhne, to produce these watches. These timepieces were designed to meet strict specifications for legibility, precision, and reliability. The B-Uhren were essential for navigation and timing during missions, featuring a design that prioritized functionality in extreme conditions.
DESIGN & FEATURES Dial Type: Type B, which was introduced later during the war. The Type B dial is characterized by an outer minute track and an inner hour circle, enhancing readability and precision in timing. Reference Number: FL23883 Movement: Manual winding, signed A. Lange & Söhne, Cal. 48.1. The movement features a hacking mechanism, allowing pilots to synchronize their watches precisely. Jewels: 17 jewels, which reduce friction and wear on the movement's moving parts. Case Diameter: 55mm without the crown, 61mm with the crown Thickness: 20mm Lug Width: 27mm Case Material: Stainless steel with an anti-magnetic iron core to protect the movement from magnetic fields encountered during flights. Dial: Original black with luminous Arabic numerals. The use of radium paint ensured visibility in low-light conditions. Hands: Luminous blued steel, confirming that both the hands and dial were designed to be luminescent for readability in the dark. Crown: Oversized onion crown, designed for operation while wearing gloves. Strap: Originally fitted with an extra-long leather strap to be worn over flight suits, often replaced in modern collections with a replica strap for practicality.
COLLECTIBILITY Today, the A. Lange & Söhne B-uhr FL23883 is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance and robust construction. Its design, functionality, and the role it played during the war make it a valuable addition to any collection. Watches that maintain their original parts and functionality are particularly prized.
SUMMARY The A. Lange & Söhne B-uhr FL23883 remains a marvel of clean design and military functionality. Its Type B dial, anti-magnetic properties, and oversized crown are testaments to the meticulous engineering required to meet the demands of wartime aviation. This watch is not just a timepiece but a piece of history, reflecting the technological advancements and the tumultuous period of its creation. 
