As a history buff and lover of Omega, the 1940s ref W.W.W. (Watch, Wrist, Waterproof) is a grail watch for me. And when I found an original Omega Dirty Dozen with its luminous radium dial and hands, I knew I had to jump at the opportunity. The ref W.W.W is one of the famed “Dirty Dozen” watches commissioned by the British Ministry of Defense during the 1940s for active duty service members.

The first time I put it on the wrist, I immediately felt the weight of history – the potential that this was worn during WW2 is nothing short of amazing. Through my first weeks of ownership, I’ve spent hours examining each detail: the broad arrow marking and aged radioactive hands, while trying to uncover every bit of information about the military store number on its caseback.

I consider this watch as one of the three pieces that make up the holy trinity of Omega: Speedmaster Calibre 321 Moonwatch, Dirty Dozen Ref WWW, and Seamaster Professional 300M. And as an Omega superfan, I couldn’t be happier. Prior to securing this piece, I primarily wore dive watches in the 40mm range. The adjustment down to the 35mm case size was the only real “negative” about the experience thus far. But this feeling dissipated quite quickly.

Let’s be clear. This Omega Dirty Dozen is definitely not a watch for everyday wear. But if you want a piece that simultaneously makes you say “wow” each time you look at your wrist and also serves as an amazing conversation starter with any fan of history or watches, then this is an amazing option. I look forward to taking care of this piece for years to come, and if I’m lucky, passing it on to my own family.