MWC A-17 Classic 1950s Pattern US Korean War Issue Watch with 24 Jewel Automatic Movement and 100m Water Resistance

SKU Code: A-17/100

This automatic self-winding A-17 pattern watch is a classic design based on the models used during the Korean War in the 1950s. It features a glass crystal and a self-winding automatic mechanical movement with the option to hand-wind. While retaining the classic 1950s appearance, this watch includes several important updates to enhance its day-to-day usability. Key upgrades include increased water resistance from 30m to 100m and a screw-down crown and caseback. This family of watches also includes the A-11, based on the WWII USAAF pilots' watch, and the GG-W-113, based on the Vietnam War issue model.

Modern Enhancements

All original watches, whether A-11, A-17, or GG-W-113, used plexiglass, which was suitable for its time but does not meet modern standards for water or scratch resistance. The updates mean that, unlike the original splash-proof models, this watch is suitable for swimming and other water activities. Despite these improvements, it retains its historical retro appearance, achieved by manufacturing a special curved glass crystal that closely mimics the original.

Key Features

This watch boasts a heavy stainless steel satin finish case made from Military Grade 316L stainless steel, a sweep second hand, hacking function, black dial, and Luminova markings and hands for excellent nighttime performance.

Historical Background

The entire range of A-11, A-17, and GG-W-113 watches came into being in January 2009 when MWC was approached by a US veterans association interested in recreating the GG-W-113 watch. This watch was to be identical in appearance to the originals made by Hamilton, Bulova, and Benrus during the Vietnam War. After examining samples and original specification sheets, the resulting watch was very close to the original and featured a high-grade fully jeweled hand-wound movement. This watch, the GG-W-113, is still made by MWC. Following its success, another order was placed to recreate the A-11, an even earlier model. The original A-11 watches, made from 1943 onwards, were produced with cheap metals due to wartime resource limitations, making them less durable. This 1950s pattern A-17 watch sits between the 1940s A-11 and the 1960s GG-W-113, combining elements of both.

Developed in 2019, the new 100m series models blend traditional appearance with contemporary performance standards.

Specifications

• Width Including Crown: 40mm
• Width Excluding Crown: 38mm
• Crystal: Hardened glass
• Thickness: 11.5mm
• Weight: 61g
• Lug Size: 20mm
• Lug to Lug: 45mm
• Water Resistance: 100m
• Caseback and Crown: Screw-down
• Movement: 24-jewel mechanical self-winding automatic with "Hack System"
• Strap: 20mm

This watch offers a perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality, making it a suitable choice for both collectors and daily wearers.

Europe, UK, and Rest of World

Tracked Mail:

• Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
• UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
• Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

Express Courier (UPS or FedEx):

• Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
• UK (UPS/DPD):  £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
• Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

Note: The exact shipping cost may vary slightly depending on the weight and dimensions, but it will only differ by a small amount and will be shown at checkout. The above rates cover approximately 85% of parcels.

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If you are not satisfied with your purchase or it does not meet your requirements, you can return it within 14 days of receipt. The item must be in its original condition and packaging. To return a watch, please notify us using the form at the link below.

Please note that the watch, strap, or other purchased item must be in new and resalable condition. The returns policy will not apply if the item has been worn, the plastic protectors on the dial and/or caseback have been removed, or if there are other signs of usage, such as a worn strap. Essentially, the goods should not have been used beyond what would be expected if you had handled or examined an item in a shop before purchase.

To request a return authorization number, please visit this link.

Read our full returns policy here