The BENRUS “DTU” watch, introduced in 1964, was developed in response to updated U.S. military specifications in the early 1960s. The goal was to simplify standards for a 17-jewel hacking wristwatch with improved durability. BENRUS answered with the DTU-2A/P, a model that would later inspire the iconic Type I.
Since its founding in 1921, BENRUS has been closely connected to American military watchmaking. In the 1960s, the company became a key supplier, notably becoming the first to secure the MIL-W-3818B contract to produce field watches for U.S. troops in Vietnam. Both the steel and later plastic versions of the ‘DTU’ were well received by service members. At the time, BENRUS was the sole manufacturer meeting the contract specifications, ahead of other brands.
The modern DTU remains faithful to its heritage. It features a 34 mm sandblasted 316L stainless steel case with a screw-down crown and MIL-SPEC–engraved closed case back. A double-domed sapphire crystal with dual anti-reflective coating offers excellent clarity and durability. The dial markers and hands are treated with BW G9 Super-LumiNova for enhanced low-light visibility. Inside beats a Swiss-made ETA 2671 automatic movement with a 38-hour power reserve. Water resistant to 10 ATM, the watch includes both a brown leather Bund strap and a green NATO strap, offering versatility and comfort.