Arguably the rarest diver Benrus ever produced, the reference 6088 is a much more elusive version of the Ultra-Deep compared to its other super compressor sibling reference 6089. While most of the collector conversation has been on the Type 1, Type 2 and Benrus military/field watches, scholarship around the 6088 is still developing. It wasn't until a 2019 Phillips auction which was the first official confirmed issuance and use of this reference by a CIA operative during Vietnam. Lore in the military watch community has had it that these particular models were used by Navy Seals and other operatives but it was not until recently that we had official documentation to prove these tales.

We are thrilled to offer this particular piece which is frankly the nicest surviving example we've laid eyes on to date. This is a true time capsule which shows very little signs of use at all. Not only is this a very rare reference, finding a 6088 in this kind of condition is unlikely to happen again. We look forward to passing on this incredible piece of history to the next caretaker.

Note that we recently published a blog post covering this model and its 6089 sibling. 

Dial: All of the tritium luminous plots are present and have aged evenly into a stunning warm patina. No notable blemishes under magnification. Hands: All luminous material is intact and matches the dial color. Case: Extremely clean and appears unpolished. Unsigned crown appears correct for the reference. Bezel: The bakelite insert remains in phenomenal condition with no cracks or scratches to note of. Crystal: Clear. Accessories: Phoenix NATO-Style strap in admiralty grey. All functions of the watch operate flawlessly. The watch was recenlty overhauled by one of the top watchmakers in the U.S. The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 1-year mechanical warranty.

Year/era: 1960s Reference: 6088 Serial: XXX Dimensions: 36mm wide, 19mm lug width. Movement: Automatic Benrus caliber FE 2D1 (ETA 2452).