Introducing the British RAF Service Watch – The Airman, a faithful tribute to the iconic 6B/159 pilot watches issued by the Air Ministry during World War II. These watches were worn by multiple units within the Royal Air Force, including:
The cream dial with bold Arabic numerals, central seconds hand, and the RAF motto ‘Per Ardua ad Astra’ echoes wartime utility and elegance. The polished 37 mm stainless steel case and adjustable brown PU leather strap complete the classic appearance. Water resistant to 3 ATM, this timepiece is housed in a duck-egg green presentation box with a gold felt interior — reminiscent of Spitfire and Hurricane undersides during the Battle of Britain.
The original 6B/159 watch was developed for RAF navigators and pilots and was known for its clarity, precision, and rugged design. Well-known manufacturers such as Omega, Longines, Jaeger-LeCoultre and Lemania produced these models. They were worn in cockpits of Avro Lancasters, Hawker Hurricanes and De Havilland Mosquitos — aircraft central to RAF operations across Europe, Africa and Asia.
In addition to British airmen, these watches were also worn by pilots from Commonwealth air forces serving under the RAF, such as the Australian RAAF, Canadian RCAF, New Zealand RNZAF and South African SAAF. Many of these pilots served in integrated or national squadrons under RAF command.
