Scarce Waltham "Russian War Relief" men's Military design wristwatch in chrome and stainless steel, circa 1943.


In July of 1941, just a month after Nazi Germany attacked the Soviet Union, the Russian War Relief Fund was organized in New York as a mechanism for sending private aid to the Soviet Union. The organization had the "express and exclusive purpose of giving succor to the Russian people at a time of crisis" and throughout the war sent millions of dollars in aid to the Soviets. Among the items sent were several thousand U.S. ordnance-case design wristwatches specially produced by Waltham, Hamilton, and Elgin and engraved on the caseback in Cyrillic letters, "To heroic people of USSR, Russian War Relief USA." This example is in very good condition showing light pitting and scratches to the chrome-plated bezel. The screw down stainless steel caseback has numerous scratches but the special Cyrillic engraving is still quite distinct. The case measures 39mm long and 31mm side. Dial is very good. Has new acrylic crystal. The watch is powered by its correct 17-jewel Waltham 6/0 Model 1942 Grade 10617 hack-setting manual wind movement, just serviced and running strong.


Price $400. SOLD