This Kentex Chronograph is a striking yet functional model with clear military ties to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF – 陸上自衛隊). Kentex is a Japanese brand known for robust tactical watches since the 1990s, gaining particular attention through official or semi-official models for the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.
The present model clearly bears the "JGSDF" designation on its dial and case back, as well as the corresponding Japanese inscription 防衛省 / 陸上自衛隊 (Ministry of Defense / Ground Self-Defense Force). This is complemented by the emblem on the back and the engraving 第2447号 ("No. 2447"), indicating individual numbering within a series. The additional designation "S690M" refers to the movement used or the internal model/caliber designation. "日本製" confirms manufacturing in Japan.
Visually, the watch presents itself as a sporty military chronograph with a green textured dial, high-contrast subdials, and clearly legible minute and second scales. The design is functional, with a strong focus on readability and robustness. The bezel on this model is fixed (non-rotating), which is typical for many chronographs in this line.
The overall condition is good, with visible signs of wear, particularly on the PVD-coated case and the original metal bracelet, which shows abrasion in places. A positive point is that two additional links are included. The watch runs reliably, but the chronograph function is currently inoperable, which has been duly considered in the price assessment.
Technical Specifications:
- Diameter: approx. 42.5 mm (without crown)
- Lug-to-Lug: approx. 52.5 mm
- Lug width: 20 mm
- Weight: 139 g (incl. original bracelet)
- Movement: Quartz chronograph (Kentex S690M)
- Case: Stainless steel with black coating (PVD)
- Bezel: fixed
- Water resistance: 100 m (according to case inscription)
- Functions: Hour, minute, second, date, chronograph (currently inoperable)
- Scope of delivery: Watch with original bracelet + 2 additional links
Overall, this is a distinctive collector's item with a clear connection to contemporary Japanese military history. Particularly the combination of JGSDF marking, numbered engraving, and Japanese manufacturing makes this watch equally interesting for collectors of military watches and Japanese timepieces. The chronograph function's defect prevents a top rating but does not diminish its fundamental appeal as an authentic, operationally-inspired model.
