{"product_id":"a-17-u-s-1950s-korean-war-pattern-automatic-military-watch-with-shatter-and-scratch-resistant-box-sapphire-crystal-copy","title":"A-17 U.S 1950s Korean War Pattern Automatic 100m Water Resistant Military Watch with Shatter and Scratch Resistant Box Sapphire Crystal on a Retro Stainless Steel \"Bonklip\" Bracelet with a Black Military Webbing Strap","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSKU Code: A-17\/BL\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \u003cstrong\u003eA-17 pattern watch\u003c\/strong\u003e is a modern recreation of a classic timepiece used during the Korean War (June 25, 1950 – July 27, 1953). While closely resembling the original design, this updated version features a \u003cstrong\u003e24-jewel self-winding automatic movement\u003c\/strong\u003e and an upgraded \u003cstrong\u003ebox sapphire crystal\u003c\/strong\u003e. The sapphire crystal not only provides superior scratch and shatter resistance but also enhances water resistance, all while maintaining the vintage aesthetic of the original plexiglass. Although automatic, the movement also allows for \u003cstrong\u003emanual hand-winding\u003c\/strong\u003e for added versatility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe A-17 belongs to a family of military-inspired watches, including:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eA-11:\u003c\/strong\u003e Based on the WWII USAAF pilot's watch.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGG-W-113:\u003c\/strong\u003e Inspired by the Vietnam War-era models of the 1960s and 1970s.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted with a \u003cstrong\u003eheavy-duty satin-finish case\u003c\/strong\u003e made from \u003cstrong\u003e316L stainless steel\u003c\/strong\u003e, the watch includes key features such as a \u003cstrong\u003ehacking function\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003esweep second hand\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003eLuminova markings and hands\u003c\/strong\u003e for nighttime visibility, and a \u003cstrong\u003eblack dial\u003c\/strong\u003e that remains true to its military roots. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\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\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJaeger LeCoultre military issue watch on a Bonklip bracelet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistorical Background\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe lineage of these watches began in January 2009, when MWC was commissioned by a U.S. veterans association to recreate the GG-W-113 model. Originally produced by Hamilton, Bulova, and Benrus during the Vietnam War, the GG-W-113 was reproduced with a fully-jeweled hand-wound movement that matched the original specifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing its success, the association requested the A-11, a WWII-era watch. Finally, MWC completed the lineup with the A-17, bridging the gap between the 1940s A-11 and the 1960s GG-W-113. This dedication to military history and craftsmanship has made the A-17 a standout addition to MWC’s lineup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWidth (including crown): 38mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWidth (excluding crown): 36mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThickness: 12.9mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLug size: 18mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLug-to-lug: 43mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLug type: Spring\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\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 Military-grade 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 Screw-down locking crown (316L stainless steel)\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\u003eCrystal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Box sapphire, shatter and scratch-resistant\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMovement:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24-jewel NH35 automatic, self-winding\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\u003cb\u003eStrap\/Bracelet: \u003c\/b\u003e1950s Pattern \"Bonklip\" Steel Bracelet and a Black Military Webbing Strap\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePackaging:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gift box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWarranty:\u003c\/strong\u003e 24 months\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSapphire Crystal Benefits\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSapphire crystal is renowned for its durability and clarity, making it the material of choice for high-performance watches. Key advantages include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Strength:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sapphire crystals undergo heat treatment during manufacturing to eliminate internal stresses, significantly improving durability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eShatter and Scratch Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ideal for military, police, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability under adverse conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAnti-Reflective Coating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Applied in two layers, enhancing legibility in various lighting conditions.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo provide perspective, over 90% of cracked watch crystals involve mineral glass, even when hardened. Sapphire crystals, by contrast, are far more resistant to such incidents. These benefits come at a premium, which is why sapphire is typically found in high-end timepieces—and now, even in modern devices like iPhones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe A-17’s \u003cstrong\u003ebox sapphire crystal\u003c\/strong\u003e preserves the vintage aesthetic while delivering modern performance, making it an excellent choice for collectors and active users alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis watch combines historical significance with modern engineering, offering exceptional value for enthusiasts and professionals seeking a durable, stylish timepiece steeped in military heritage.\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\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\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\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJaeger LeCoultre military issue watch on a Bonklip bracelet.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"MWC - Military Watch Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49789917757770,"sku":"A-17\/BL","price":471.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1140\/1866\/files\/A-17_BL_B.jpg?v=1737665627","url":"https:\/\/mwcwatches.com\/ca\/products\/a-17-u-s-1950s-korean-war-pattern-automatic-military-watch-with-shatter-and-scratch-resistant-box-sapphire-crystal-copy","provider":"MWC - Military Watch Company","version":"1.0","type":"link"}