MWC Classic 46mm Limited Edition Bronze XL Luftwaffe Pattern Military Aviators Watch with Sapphire Crystal (Retro Dial Version)

Product Details

SKU Code: CLIX/LW/BZ

This MWC Limited Edition Bronze Classic Aviator is one of our most distinctive pilot watch models. Crafted from bronze—a blend of copper and tin—it offers a striking alternative to our usual stainless steel and titanium cases. One of bronze’s most fascinating characteristics is how it develops a unique patina over time. While every watch starts out identical, each evolves its own individual appearance, meaning no two watches will ever look exactly the same. This natural aging process not only enhances durability but also gives the watch a one-of-a-kind vintage charm. Remarkably, bronze is also highly resistant to corrosion—even from saltwater and brine.

Despite its retro aesthetic, bronze only made its way into watchmaking in the last 30 years, though it’s one of humanity’s oldest metals, dating back to before 3000 BC.

The Classic Aviator range is inspired by military designs from the 1940s and 50s. Some models feature a traditional subdial at 6 o’clock for the seconds—common in wartime timepieces—while others use a sweep second hand, reflecting updates introduced from around 1943. This variety lets you choose a design that best matches your own style and historical preference.

The oversized 46mm case (excluding crown) gives this model a commanding presence and tends to attract admiring comments—especially from fellow watch enthusiasts. The large dial, combined with Luminova-painted markers, ensures excellent readability both day and night—just like the World War II originals.

At the heart of the watch is a 24-jewel NH35A automatic movement, visible through a clear exhibition caseback. When fully wound, the movement offers a power reserve of approximately 41 hours.

Specifications

• Movement: Automatic NH35A (Self-winding, 24 jewels, 21,600 BPH)

• Power Reserve: 41 hours

• Case Diameter: 46mm (excluding crown)

• Thickness: 15mm

• Dial: Black with Luminova-painted numerals and sweep second hand

• Case Material: Solid Bronze

• Crystal: Shatter-resistant, anti-reflective sapphire

• Crown: Screw-down

• Water Resistance: 100m / 330ft

• Strap: 24mm high-quality stitched leather

• Caseback: Transparent/exhibition for movement view

Why Sapphire Crystal?

We’re often asked: What’s the advantage of sapphire crystal over mineral glass? The answer is simple—durability. Synthetic sapphire is incredibly hard, making it both shatter- and scratch-resistant. That’s why it's the crystal of choice for military personnel, law enforcement, security professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts—groups that represent over 70% of our customers.

While hardened mineral glass performs well, it simply doesn’t match sapphire when it comes to surviving accidents and harsh conditions. Over 90% of broken crystals we see are mineral, not sapphire—even the hardened ones.

Sapphire’s strength comes not just from its composition, but also from post-production heat treatment to eliminate internal stress. Each crystal is then coated with two layers of anti-reflective material. Fun fact: sapphire crystal is now also used in the latest iPhones.

Naturally, this level of toughness comes at a premium—which is why sapphire is typically reserved for higher-end timepieces like this one.

• Delivery

  • Shipping Information

    Europe, UK, and Rest of World

    Tracked Mail:

    • Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
    • UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
    • Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

    Express Courier (UPS or FedEx):

    • Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
    • UK (UPS/DPD):  £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
    • Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

    Note: The exact shipping cost may vary slightly depending on the weight and dimensions, but it will only differ by a small amount and will be shown at checkout. The above rates cover approximately 85% of parcels.

    Order and Shipment Confirmation

    You will generally receive two emails after placing an order:

    1. Confirmation of receipt of the order and payment.
    2. Notification of shipment once the goods are dispatched.

    Processing Time: Orders are shipped by the Post Office or Courier within 48 hours of payment processing. Note that our shipping centers are closed on Saturdays and Sundays; therefore, orders placed during this time may take up to 72 hours to be dispatched. This includes orders placed after 14:00 (CET) on Fridays.

    Estimated Delivery Times (in working days):

    • Europe:
      • UPS: 2 to 5 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 14 days
    • UK:
      • DPD or UPS: 24 hours
      • Tracked Mail: 1 to 2 days
    • Rest of World:
      • UPS: 3 to 10 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 21 days*

    *Some countries are notoriously slow to process goods on arrival, including Israel, Hong Kong, Macau, Mexico, South Africa, and some South American countries. Significant delays can also occur in other countries in Africa. For time-sensitive deliveries, we recommend using UPS, DHL, or FedEx.

    All shipping estimates exclude Saturdays and Sundays.

    While we strive to deliver within the above timeframes, they are guides, and delivery cannot be guaranteed. We are not responsible for delays caused by couriers or any national postal service. If your goods are not delivered within the estimated time, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch, and we will do our best to resolve the issue promptly. We are not liable for any loss caused by late delivery.

    Our delivery charges cover the cost of shipping to you but do not include import charges and administration fees to clear the goods when entering your country if applicable.

    It is the purchaser's responsibility to understand that charges may be levied and to pay all subsequent import taxes and duties on goods shipped to their country. If items are returned to MWC due to rejected payment, subsequent charges incurred (such as import duty and processing costs) will be deducted from any refund issued. For more information, please contact accounts@mwc-distribution.com

    If you need to clarify any details regarding local taxes for your location, please contact us before placing an order. For clarification, goods shipped to the EU can be dispatched from our EU location if ordered at https://mwc.eu/, and we also have a dedicated UK shipping center at https://mwcwatches.co.uk/. In the United States, orders under $800 do not incur taxes or fees. In Australia, orders up to AU$1000 are tax-free. Many other countries have similar regulations, which you can verify using this helpful link: Zonos De Minimis Values and also this link to calculate taxes for shipments to most countries worldwide https://www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator/

    We do not accept liability for goods lost after delivery to a PO Box. We reserve the right to cancel orders where the delivery address is a PO Box. Similarly, we do not accept liability for goods lost after confirmed delivery to APO or BFPO locations.

    Customer Notification: It is the customer's responsibility to notify us if goods are not received within 21 days of the estimated delivery date. If no notification is made within this period, the buyer is deemed to have received the goods.

    Safe Place Deliveries

    Some delivery companies allow for delivery without a signature, leaving the item in a "safe place" (e.g., shed, garage, porch). If you choose this option, it is at your own risk. We initially send items by a secure service requiring a signature or proof of delivery. Using a "safe place" increases the risk of theft. We advise ensuring deliveries require a signature to ensure safe receipt.

    Failed Deliveries

    If an item is refused and returned to us, we will refund the order less the outbound and inbound shipping charges once the item is received back at our packing and shipping center. For business locations, please notify the receiving personnel of the expected delivery to avoid refusals. Usually, we will be notified of delivery issues and will email you for instructions. It is important to act quickly to avoid return and associated costs.

    For any questions or further assistance, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch.