The Original Dirty Dozen: A Snapshot of History
- Buren - 11,000 watches
- Cyma - 20,000 watches
- Eterna - 5,000 watches
- Grana - 1,000 watches
- IWC - 6,000 watches
- Jaeger-LeCoultre - 10,000 watches
- Lemania - 7,000 watches
- Longines - 5,000 watches
- Omega - 25,000 watches
- Record - 25,000 watches
- Timor - 13,000 watches
- Vertex - 15,000 watches
The Vaer C3/C5 Dirty Dozen: A Modern Classic
Our Vaer C3 Dirty Dozen (36mm case diameter) and larger C5 Dirty Dozen (40mm case) draw inspiration from these historic models, blending classic design elements with modern technology. Priced at $299, they offer enthusiasts a robust, stylish, and affordable tool watch option that honors its predecessors. The new C3/C5 Dirty Dozen is powered by a USA-built FTS Ameriquartz movement and is assembled in the United States, providing precision and reliability. With a 10ATM water resistance rating, it can handle the challenges of any outdoor adventure (swimming, surfing, diving etc.) while retaining a timeless aesthetic.
Above: C3 Dirty Dozen 36mm
Shared Durability and Functionality
While the original Dirty Dozen watches were renowned for their robustness in combat conditions, they were also distinguished by their timeless design and impeccable build quality. Similarly, the Vaer C3/C5 Dirty Dozen is crafted with durability in mind. Its stainless-steel case and sapphire crystal ensure that it stands up to the elements, while its 36mm C3 version offers a smaller size akin to the proportions of the original models.
Above: C3/C5 Dirty Dozen Size Comparisson
Why should I buy this watch?
When we originally released the A12 Dirty Dozen on Kickstarter in 2019 we were a much smaller company. We had never used a mechanical movement, we had never done any Swiss assembly, and we had never sold a watch for more than $300. In many ways, the release was an important turning point for the business, as it proved we COULD execute on a design that incorporated elements of traditional horology.
Five years later, with the release of the C3/C5 Dirty Dozen, our goal is to return this iconic military field watch to its original use case: a rugged, accurate ocean-proof timekeeper. If quartz technology had existed in 1939 when the original models were being commissioned, it definitely would have been the choice of military commanders. It’s just FAR more accurate than any type of mechanical timekeeping.
If you’ve always appreciated the design, and story of the Dirty Dozen, but prefer the functional superiority of quartz (and you value USA sourcing), we think that this release delivers the perfect all-in-one solution.
Above: C3/C5 Dirty Dozen in Lume
What is an Ameriquartz movement?
If you’ve been following Vaer for a few years, you’ll probably recognize the term Ameriquartz. Between 2020 and 2023, we sold over ten thousand Ameriquartz watches across the C3 and C5 lineup. Last year we transitioned the core of our USA-assembled quartz models (ex. C5 Tactical) to solar movements. However, we always intended to keep the option of a USA-built movement alive within the Vaer lineup.
We believe the C3/C5 Dirty Dozen is the perfect design to re-introduce this unique movement option into the Vaer lineup. While it is a quartz watch, and it’s not Swiss, in our opinion, by leveraging hand-built Ameriquartz movements, the C3 and C5 represent a continuation of the historical craftsmanship of the original World War II models. Whether you prefer the more expensive Swiss mechanical version or the more affordable USA quartz variant, both the Vaer Dirty Dozen models represent a commitment to the timeless design and durability of their historic counterparts. With the Vaer C3/C5, we honor the past while embracing modernity, ensuring that this piece of history remains accessible and relevant for today's watch enthusiasts.
Above: Ameriquartz Exploited View
Comparing the Vaer C5 and A12 Dirty Dozen Models
In 2019, we released the mechanical Vaer A12 Dirty Dozen, which quickly became an integral part of our Swiss-made collection. For collectors and enthusiasts, this Swiss mechanical version represents a premium take on the classic design. Below, we compare the A12 and the C3/C5:
Vaer A12 Dirty Dozen (Mechanical)
Pros:
- Swiss-made Sellita movement
- Higher perceived value due to Swiss craftsmanship
- More faithful to the original design in terms of movement
- Higher price point
- Less accurate -5/+15 seconds per day
- Heavier due to the movement and materials
Vaer C5 Dirty Dozen (Quartz)
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Low-maintenance quartz movement
- Assembled in the USA
Cons:
- Lacks the traditional mechanical movement
- Not Swiss-made
Above: C5 Dirty Dozen 40mm on Premium Bracelet
In conclusion, whether you prefer the more expensive Swiss mechanical version or the more affordable USA quartz variant, both the Vaer Dirty Dozen models represent a commitment to the timeless design and durability of their historic counterparts. With the Vaer C3/C5, we honor the past while embracing modernity, ensuring that this piece of history remains accessible and relevant for today's watch enthusiasts.
