Original Kriegsmarine torpedo stopwatch to Oberleutnant Rudolf Schultze. Schultze was one of four sons of Generaladmiral Otto Schultze (see lots at this auction) and commanded U-2540 during the war. His brother, Herbert Schultze - was a famous and highly decorated (Knight's Cross with Oak Leaves) U-Boot commander.
Fine example by UNION HORLOGÈRE. Period time engraved "M" Kriegsmarine eagle to the reverse.
"16402" numbered to the inside as well as ""ACUER GARANTI" marked which means "guaranteed steel".
The button is moving and working however there is no function. The watch might need a repair.
Very nice original finish. No cracks or scratches. A great watch with provenance!
Oberleutnant zur See Rudolf Schultze was born on 19.5.1922 and died in September 2000. He was part of Crew XII/39 and commanded U-61 and U-2540 after serving as 1.WO and 2.WO on U-608. Many details on his service time are available on the net.
Schultze actively sunk his U-Boot U-2540 on 4.5.1945 („Aktion Regenbogen“). Ironically Dönitz refused „Aktion Regenbogen“ on the same day. Rudolf Schultze has ignored this order as many other commanders.
U-2540 was recovered in 1957 and served again as U-Boot „Wilhelm Bauer“ from 1960 for the Bundesmarine. The boat is on exhibition today.
