“The Dambuster 617 Squadron 80th Anniversary Dual Time Chronograph Limited Edition by AVI-8 is designed to captivate aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and watch collectors alike.”
THE YEAR 2023 marks the 80th anniversary of the Second World War’s famous Dambuster raid.
Dubbed Operation Chastise, the mission, which was carried out on the night of May 16 to 17, 1943, saw 19 specially fitted Avro Lancasters from the RAF’s 617 Squadron drop experimental, water-skimming Vickers Type 464 ‘Upkeep’ bombs onto the Möhne and Edersee hydroelectric dams in Germany’s Ruhr Valley.
To commemorate the anniversary of the celebrated operation, AVI-8, a manufacturer of vintage-styled, flight-themed timepieces, is releasing a limited-edition Dambuster 617 Squadron 80th Anniversary Dual Time Chronograph wristwatch.
Produced in association with the 617 Squadron Association, five per cent of net sales from the watch will go to support the charity’s work in keeping the history of the famous unit alive. Each timepiece is uniquely numbered as part of a limited-edition production of only 775 pieces.
The watch, which boasts a case width of 43mm and a case length of 51.5mm, is available in three colour schemes: Jet Black, Navy Blue and a tan Camo pattern. Each features a numbered analog face with separate stopwatch, 60-second and 24-hour dials, each resembling the instrument panel of a Lancaster bomber. The timepiece is powered by the reliable Miyota FS26 Quartz Watch Movement, providing precision and accuracy. Water resistant up to 5 ATMs or 50 meters, it’s designed for durability even in challenging environments. The mineral lens and luminous hands and numbers provide exceptional visibility, even in low-light conditions and the stainless-steel case back features the 617 Squadron Association logo and inscription.
“The Dambuster 617 Squadron 80th Anniversary Dual Time Chronograph Limited Edition by AVI-8 is designed to captivate aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, and watch collectors alike,” says AVI-8. “This exquisite timepiece collection pays tribute to the heroic acts of the 617 Squadron and the technical brilliance of Operation Chastise with its impeccable design and exceptional craftsmanship.”
Wing Commander John Bell, president of 617 Squadron Association, adds: “We are very proud of the launch of this new timepiece and have worked closely with AVI-8 to reproduce a chronograph that aptly commemorates the Dambusters.”
The Dambuster 617 Squadron 80th Anniversary Dual Time Chronograph is priced at $285USD.
For more information or to order your own, visit AVI-8’s website here.
