Ollech & Wajs Slide-Rule Watch For General Electric

This is the type of watch we nerds can get excited about. In the mid-20th century, prominent Swiss brands sometimes provided watches to firms in need of timepieces for expeditions, experiments, and more. In this particular case, the manufacturer even signed the dials with the purchasing firm’s name — General Electric, the prominent American conglomerate, which still to this day has a significant aviation division. In considering GE’s aviation business, the choice of watch makes sense: It’s actually a Selectron model from Swiss brand Ollech & Wajs. Measuring a large (for the time) 41mm in diameter, it features a slide rule bezel that allows pilots to make various calculations on the fly, so to speak. Other than that, it’s simply a well made, highly legible tool watch with a date indicator — perfect for the aviator or scientist.  This particular GE-signed Selectron features a 41mm stainless steel case, a black aluminum, bidirectional rotating slide rule bezel, a luminous black matte tritium dial with a matching handset, an acrylic crystal, and a manual-winding FHF Cal. 96-4 movement with date. In excellent condition throughout, it’s a true testament to the importance of a well made timepiece in mid-20th century scientific endeavors.  Try it on for size!