Heuer Bundeswehr

Why We Love It Known affectionally as the “Bund,” the Heuer Bundeswehr flies high among military chronographs. A Fliegeruhr through and through, there’s nothing flimsy or flip about this watch. Strapping it on your wrist can conjure daydreams of piloting a F-4 Phantom II over Soviet airspace.   The example being offered here is a strong piece showing light, normal signs of wear from age and use, with even patination to the luminescent elements on the hands and dial. Fitted to a black nylon NATO-style strap, this Bund is ready for action!   The Story The Heuer Bundeswehr Reference 1550SG was supplied to members of the West German Federal Defense Force or Bundeswehr. Like the Zenith A. Cairelli, the Bundeswehr was of larger proportions: a 43mm monocoque case of brushed steel surmounted by a rotating bezel. Over this watch’s lifetime, it saw many different dial configurations—some with military markings, some without—but all using that same 43mm case. Like another famous pilot’s chronograph, the Type 20, the Bundeswehr had a flyback or retour en vol function, whereby the chronograph could be reset without having to stop it—just by pressing the bottom pusher while the chronograph is running. Svelte despite its size, the Bundeswehr is just the sort of tool watch you want on your wrist, whether you’re engaged in dogfights miles above the Earth or in more terrestrial pursuits.