Long before the modern clothing brand was associated with double popped collars, cloying cologne and bare abs, Abercrombie & Fitch was the sportsman’s mecca.

Established in 1982, Abercrombie & Fitch sold all manner of outdoor gear, from hunting essentials and camping equipment to more exotic offerings such as hot air balloons, leopard collars, and treadmills for exercise dogs. A&F most notably became the outfitter for a virtual ‘who’s who’ of adventurers and iconic individuals: Theodore Roosevelt outfitted multiple expeditions to Africa at A&F, as did Robert Peary ahead of his trek to the North Pole, and Clark Gable amidst his golf forays around the world. 

But when it comes to A&F wristwatches, there’s much more to dive into than the widely adored Seafarer.

This piece, an Abercrombie & Fitch Midshipman, dates back to the late 1950s/early 1960s and features a 33mm stainless steel case with a domed acrylic crystal, an unsigned crown, and a lovely silver dial. Simply designed and well executed, it boasts luminous Arabic indices, a luminous ‘alpha’ handset, and a charming patina that has developed evenly throughout.

Powered by an A&F-signed, manual-winding movement, it bears the name ‘Mark Reed’ engraved on the caseback. No doubt Mr. Reed would be delighted to know his watch will be worn and appreciated for another 60 years!