There’s no denying the connection that several brands and watches make to motor vehicles in today’s industry. But, while many of these projects focus on the glitz and glamour surrounding supercars, legendary races, and a wealth-enthusiast lifestyle, it’s easy to forget some of the more undercover motor vehicle ‘hits.’ To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Lend-Lease program, CCW (Classic Cars Watches) has announced a new collection dubbed Willys Watches, which draw inspiration from the Willys Jeeps produced between 1941 and 1945. The spirit of those legendary utility vehicles is carried into every facet of the watch’s design and the entire package offers an affordable option for anyone drawn to the aesthetic of rock solid military design.
Available with dials corresponding to various Lend-Lease participating nations (United States, Soviet Union, Great Britain, and Republic of China) each Willys Watch model features a stainless steel case measuring 46mm in diameter with a two-layer finish of red primer and a khaki top-coat – just like the Willys Jeep. The overall profile of the watch is also inspired by the Jeep frame ‘horn’ section, which is accented by the characteristic riveted number plate indicating the watch’s specific limited number. This approach to finishing and design make for a watch that is inherently simple and utilitarian, which is a philosophy that can also be attributed to the Willys Jeeps themselves. Above the dial is a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating and water resistance is rated at 100m.
The dial itself is also highly legible, with a contrasting handset, bold white Arabics for the hour and minute scales, and a sharp seconds track that runs the periphery of the dial. A basic date window is located at 3 o’clock and the hands and numerals are coated with a thick treatment of Super-LumiNova. As mentioned previously, different dials indicate the corresponding nation, with the 12 o’clock marker serving as the single distinguishing feature. CCW has manufactured only 100 of each dial design, making this a fun, collectible series for fans of Willys Jeeps.
For the movement, each model comes powered by the reliable Swiss Sellita SW-200 automatic movement. It features 38 hours of power reserve, hacking, hand-winding, 26 jewels, and a 4Hz operational frequency. And, while there is no display caseback, CCW opted for a more special version inspired by the Jeep’s unusual fuel tank cap, located under the driver’s seat. Each Willys Watch model also comes with two strap options (canvas and all leather) and feature a 2-year warranty.
The CCW Willys Club Watches each come packaged in an ammo crate-style wooden box packaged in a high quality carton. It makes for an unboxing experience that’s worthy of the watch design itself and highlights the attention to detail pursued by CCW. Again, each variant of the Willys Watch is limited to 100 pieces. This is a great chance to own a watch inspired by a design and moment in history that is often forgotten. These limited units won’t last long, so be sure to act fast. Pricing is set at £800 and you can learn more by visiting the brand’s official site. willysclub.com