{"title":"WWII A-11 Models","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe A-11 was among the first military watches to be equipped with a sweep second hand. This recreation is based closely on the original World War Two design from 1943. The watches at the time were made in a variety of slightly different styles by Elgin, Bulova and Waltham but were all based on an original US government specification laid down at the time. This watch is closest in appearance to the Elgin 539 which used a 15 or 16 jewel movement (this one has 24 jewels to improve accuracy) and was made for the USAAF between 1940 and 1945. The original watch was made from plated basemetal (to save steel) but this modern recreation is solid stainless steel so it should stand the test of time better than the originals.\u003c\/span\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"a-11-1940s-wwii-pattern-automatic-military-watch-with-shatter-and-scratch-resistant-box-sapphire-crystal-on-matching-retro-pattern-bracelet","title":"A-11 1940s WWII Pattern Automatic Military Watch 100m Water Resistant With Shatter and Scratch Resistant Box Sapphire Crystal on Matching Retro \"Bonklip\" Pattern Bracelet with an Additional Canvas Strap","description":"\u003ch3\u003eSKU Code: A-11\/BL\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOverview\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recreation is closely based on the original World War II design from 1943, now enhanced with a high-performance, self-winding 24-jewel mechanical movement and upgraded to a box sapphire crystal. This crystal is both shatter and scratch-resistant while maintaining the appearance of the original plexiglass used during the war. Various manufacturers like Elgin, Bulova, and Waltham produced watches based on US government specifications during WWII. This watch most closely resembles the Elgin 539, which featured a 15 or 16-jewel movement and was made for the USAAF between 1940 and 1945. Unlike the original watches, made from plated base metal to conserve steel, this modern recreation uses solid stainless steel, ensuring superior durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe watch features a retro \"\u003cstrong\u003eBonklip\u003c\/strong\u003e\" ladder-style bracelet, expertly crafted from high-quality stainless steel. Widely used between the 1930s and 1960s, these bracelets are celebrated for their premium vintage aesthetic. For more on their history and features, see the detailed summary below. Exceptionally comfortable and highly adjustable, the Bonklip bracelet pairs perfectly with retro-style watches like this one, blending functionality with timeless design. The final 3 images show 2 UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) documents and a original \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eJaeger LeCoultre military issue watch on a Bonklip bracelet.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOrigin and Development\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular recreation was conceived in January 2009 when a US veterans association approached us to explore the viability of making a watch identical in appearance to the original GG-W-113 watches used during the Vietnam War. Following the success of that project, we were asked to recreate this earlier WWII model. These original models are now almost impossible to find in good condition due to the use of cheaper metals during wartime resource limitations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDimensions\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWidth Including Crown:\u003c\/strong\u003e 38mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWidth Excluding Crown:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThickness:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12.9mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLug Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLug to Lug:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLug Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Spring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDial Color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCase Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e 316L stainless steel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCaseback:\u003c\/strong\u003e Screw-down 316L stainless steel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrown:\u003c\/strong\u003e 316L Stainless steel screw down locking crown\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 atm (100m\/330ft)*\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMovement\u003c\/strong\u003e: 24 jewel, mechanical self-winding automatic movement, with \"Hacking\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrystal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shatter and scratch-resistant box sapphire*\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLuminous Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e Luminova\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSerial Number:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engraved on caseback\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrap\/Bracelet: \u003c\/strong\u003eRetro Stainless Steel Bracelet and a Canvas 1940s Pattern Strap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePackaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplied in a gift box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGuarantee:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24 months\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBenefits of Sapphire Crystal\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSynthetic sapphire is the best material for watch crystals due to its strength and resistance to shattering and scratching. These characteristics make it highly appealing to military and security personnel, police officers, and those with active outdoor lifestyles—groups that account for over 70% of our customers. When accidents occur, over 90% of cracked crystals are mineral glass, even when hardened. Sapphire crystal, however, is heat-treated to remove internal stresses, enhancing durability, and is coated with two layers of anti-reflective material. Notably, sapphire crystal is also used in the latest iPhone models. Although it comes at a higher price, sapphire crystal is typically found only on higher-end watches due to its superior durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSummary\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe A-11 model honors the original WWII design while incorporating modern features that enhance its functionality and durability, making it a perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary technology.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBonklip Bracelet Overview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eBonklip bracelet\u003c\/strong\u003e is a distinctive watch strap known for its flexibility, durability, and unique construction. Originating in the 1930s and popularized during and after World War II, it complements military-style and vintage watches from the 1930s to the 1960s. Its practicality and timeless design make it a favorite among watch enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Features\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Typically stainless steel, lightweight yet robust, with minor variations in design.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eConstruction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Interlocking metal links with a ladder-like appearance ensure excellent flexibility and comfort.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAdjustability:\u003c\/strong\u003e The clasp allows for micro-adjustments to fit various wrist sizes without tools.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eClasp Design:\u003c\/strong\u003e A secure and easy-to-use mechanism, ideal for quick adjustments, especially in military settings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStyle:\u003c\/strong\u003e Retro, minimalist, and perfectly suited for vintage or military-pattern watches.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePatented in the 1930s by British inventor F. B. Bonklip, this bracelet gained prominence during World War II for its practicality and resilience. It was often issued with military watches and used in both field and aviation roles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eModern Appeal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, the Bonklip bracelet is valued for its vintage aesthetic and functionality. Unlike leather, nylon, or canvas straps that take time to dry after water exposure, the stainless steel Bonklip offers durability and practicality, making it ideal for active or outdoor use. It pairs beautifully with classic military-style or reissued watches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe watch features a retro \"\u003cstrong\u003eBonklip\u003c\/strong\u003e\" ladder-style bracelet, expertly crafted from high-quality stainless steel. Widely used between the 1930s and 1960s, these bracelets are celebrated for their premium vintage aesthetic. For more on their history and features, see the detailed summary below. Exceptionally comfortable and highly adjustable, the Bonklip bracelet pairs perfectly with retro-style watches like this one, blending functionality with timeless design. The final 3 images show 2 UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) documents and a original \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eJaeger LeCoultre military issue watch on a Bonklip bracelet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c!----\u003e","brand":"MWC - Military Watch Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49789901799754,"sku":"A-11\/BL","price":345.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1140\/1866\/files\/A-11_BL_B.jpg?v=1737654297"},{"product_id":"a-11-1940s-wwii-pattern-military-watch-100m-330ft-water-resistant-with-shatter-and-scratch-resistant-box-sapphire-crystal-automatic","title":"A-11 1940s WWII Pattern Military Watch, 100m\/330ft Water Resistant With Shatter and Scratch Resistant Box Sapphire Crystal (Automatic)","description":"\u003ch3\u003eSKU Code: A-11S25\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOverview\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis recreation is closely based on the original World War II design from 1943, now enhanced with a high-performance, self-winding 24-jewel mechanical movement and upgraded to 100m\/330ft Water Resistance with a box sapphire crystal. This crystal is both shatter and scratch-resistant while maintaining the appearance of the original plexiglass used during the war. Various manufacturers like Elgin, Bulova, and Waltham produced watches based on US government specifications during WWII. This watch most closely resembles the Elgin 539, which featured a 15 or 16-jewel movement and was made for the USAAF between 1940 and 1945. Unlike the original watches, made from plated base metal to conserve steel, this modern recreation uses solid stainless steel, ensuring superior durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eOrigin and Development\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular recreation was conceived in January 2009 when a US veterans association approached us to explore the viability of making a watch identical in appearance to the original GG-W-113 watches used during the Vietnam War. Following the success of that project, we were asked to recreate this earlier WWII model. These original models are now almost impossible to find in good condition due to the use of cheaper metals during wartime resource limitations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eDimensions\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWidth Including Crown:\u003c\/strong\u003e 38mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWidth Excluding Crown:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThickness:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12.9mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLug Size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLug to Lug:\u003c\/strong\u003e 43mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLug Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Drilled Lugs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDial Color:\u003c\/strong\u003e Black\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCase Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e 316L stainless steel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCaseback:\u003c\/strong\u003e Screw-down 316L stainless steel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrown:\u003c\/strong\u003e 316L Stainless steel screw down locking crown\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWater Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e100 m \/ 330 ft \/ 10 ATM*\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMovement\u003c\/strong\u003e: NH35- 24 jewel, mechanical self-winding automatic movement, with \"Hacking\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCrystal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Shatter and scratch-resistant box sapphire*\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLuminous Material:\u003c\/strong\u003e Luminova\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSerial Number:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engraved on caseback\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eStrap:\u003c\/strong\u003e 18mm Canvas Strap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePackaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Supplied in a gift box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGuarantee:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24 months\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBenefits of Sapphire Crystal\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSynthetic sapphire is the best material for watch crystals due to its strength and resistance to shattering and scratching. These characteristics make it highly appealing to military and security personnel, police officers, and those with active outdoor lifestyles—groups that account for over 70% of our customers. When accidents occur, over 90% of cracked crystals are mineral glass, even when hardened. Sapphire crystal, however, is heat-treated to remove internal stresses, enhancing durability, and is coated with two layers of anti-reflective material. Notably, sapphire crystal is also used in the latest iPhone models. Although it comes at a higher price, sapphire crystal is typically found only on higher-end watches due to its superior durability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSummary\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe A-11 model pays tribute to the original WWII design while incorporating modern enhancements, including a 24-jewel NH35 automatic movement with a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. The result is a watch that combines authentic vintage character with the reliability, durability, and practicality of contemporary watchmaking.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"MWC - Military Watch Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50889161703754,"sku":"A-11S25","price":325.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1140\/1866\/products\/MWCA-11Dec2020b.jpg?v=1605719725"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1140\/1866\/collections\/MWC_A-11_1940s_Pattern_Military_Watch.jpg?v=1582033035","url":"https:\/\/mwcwatches.com\/ca\/collections\/wwii-a-11-models.oembed","provider":"MWC - Military Watch Company","version":"1.0","type":"link"}