A Rare WW2 Helma “DH” German Military-Issued Watch with Scrubbed Caseback, c.1938

Founded in Switzerland in the early 20th century, Helma was a smaller watch brand that gained prominence during World War II by supplying timepieces to the German military. Watches marked with “DH” (Dienstuhr Heer) were issued to the Wehrmacht, valued for their robustness and legibility. Though less well-known than larger Swiss houses, Helma produced reliable field watches that met strict military standards, leaving behind a niche but fascinating legacy for collectors of WWII horology.

Whats on offer

We are delighted to present this rare Helma “DH” military-issued watch, dating to around 1938. Featuring the classic black dial with luminous Arabic numerals, recessed sub-seconds, and sword-style hands, it’s a textbook example of a German Wehrmacht Dienstuhr. Housed in a robust white metal case, it carries the reliable calibre 1130 movement. Unusually, the caseback has been scrubbed—perhaps to obscure its military origins or as a soldier’s souvenir—adding intrigue to an already scarce piece. A fine, well-preserved WWII watch with undeniable historical appeal.