Brand: TORNEK RAYVILLE US

Model: Fifty fathoms moisture indicator from 1965

Year: 1965

Case: Stainless Steel

Movement: Automatic movement

Bracelet: Black military-style nylon strap

Diameter: 41mm

Price: 110.000€

The Tornek-Rayville U.S. Fifty Fathoms represents one of the rarest and most historically important military dive watches ever produced. Manufactured in extremely limited numbers to meet strict U.S. Navy procurement regulations, these watches were delivered under the Tornek-Rayville name rather than Blancpain, complying with the Buy American Act requirements of the era. Produced in approximately 1965, surviving examples are extraordinarily scarce, with many having been lost, destroyed, or heavily worn during active military service. The presence of the military-specified moisture indicator on the dial further distinguishes this reference as one of the most technically fascinating and collectible tool watches of the twentieth century.

This example represents a highly original and visually compelling specimen, featuring the correct TORNEK-RAYVILLE U.S. dial signature and the rare humidity indicator positioned at 6 o’clock. The matte black dial displays beautifully aged luminous plots with a rich, creamy patina, entirely consistent with long-term natural ageing. The distinctive bi-colour moisture indicator remains intact and clearly defined, an essential and highly sought-after element unique to these military-issued pieces. The original sword hands retain their tritium luminous material, showing honest ageing fully coherent with the dial. The overall dial condition remains remarkably preserved, free from restoration or later intervention, maintaining strong legibility and exceptional historical integrity.

The stainless steel case is preserved in strong and honest condition, retaining well-defined lugs and correct military proportions. The rotating bakelite bezel remains original and presents attractively, with its luminous triangle at 12 o’clock still present and naturally aged. The bezel numerals remain clear and legible, while the overall insert displays the subtle surface wear expected from a genuine issued example. The case shows only moderate signs of use consistent with its military history, without structural damage or excessive polishing. The screw-down crown operates correctly, and the watch remains mechanically sound.

Combining extreme rarity, military provenance, and the unmistakable visual character of the moisture indicator dial, this Tornek-Rayville U.S. Fifty Fathoms stands as a cornerstone piece within serious military and vintage dive watch collections. Its scarcity and historical importance firmly establish it among the most desirable and iconic tool watches ever produced.