Dekla Flieger 44 Type B

During World War II, a position of great importance within the German Luftwaffe was that of the Beobachter.  The Beobachter (spotter) was a pilot designated to perform reconnaissance flights and locate targets of significance using a map and a compass. 

To measure distance and to time bombing runs, the Beobachter also needed a legible and easy-to-use wristwatch.  Enter the Beobachtungsuhr, or B-Uhr - the observer's watch. 

The technical specifications for a B-Uhr watch were determined by the Reich Ministry of Aviation.  Its design was simple, but distinct.  It often emphasized minutes and seconds by putting those numerals around the outside of the dial with a smaller hour track in the center. 

Arguably the most significant element was the presence of a central mounted seconds hand- a departure from the typical pocket watches of that period. 

The watch required an oversized crown with deep ridges to allow for winding while wearing thick leather gloves and the leather straps were often extra long to accommodate a pilot's jacket underneath.  Lume was a necessity for low-light flights, and the radium paint used on the numerals and hands cemented the design for the original German "B-Uhr" watch.  

With modern SuperLuminova now available, Dekla opted for white BGW9 lume on this watch for optimum legibility during day and night. 

In keeping with historic pilot's watches, this watch has "FL 23883" engraved into the side of the case.  Early German pilot's watches featured the same engraving to certify its worthiness as an official pilot's instrument. 

"FL" (Fliegnummer) meant that it was affiliated with aviation equipment. "23” meant that it was a navigational device. "883” confirmed that the watch was tested by the research institute (Deutsche Versuchsanstalt für Luftfahrt).