Vertex is marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day with a new watch that pays tribute to watches issued to British forces during the 1940s. Under the leadership of Don Cochrane, Vertex has launched this new model to honor the 1,776 watches they supplied to British troops on that historic day.
The new release sticks to a vintage-inspired 36mm case, echoing the dimensions of earlier wartime watches. This compact size makes it suitable for a variety of wrist sizes today. This size along with the box-shaped sapphire crystal brings a vintage touch to the entire package, something I can appreciate as a military watch fan. The dial is clean and simple, with large Arabic numerals and a railroad minutes track, staying true to the design of WWII-era military watches.
The watch comes with an automatic Sellita movement featuring an anti-magnetic Nivarox hairspring. The screw-down crown provides 100 meters of water resistance, ensuring it’s up to the task for daily wear. The dial looks well-lumed with X1 Super-LumiNova on those raised numerals, promising excellent visibility in low-light conditions, a standard for Vertex watches.
The watch is presented in a robust tactical case and comes with several strap options: an expanding metal bracelet, a leather over-and-under strap, and a cotton fabric over-and-under strap, providing versatility in how it can be worn. The M36 is available for pre-order now, with deliveries starting in June, and is priced at $2,787.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.
