This watch is a A-11 below is a full description of this particular watch and the issues which it has (or is reported to have because in many cases the watches do not have significant issues, below that is the full information relating to this model from the factory website which gives full details of all of the dimensions, specification and other information relating to the watch.
We buy these watches from various defence auctions and other disposal sales and it's frequently the case that we find that there is actually nothing wrong with the watch but it has to be assumed it will have some form of fault though in most cases it's very minor or as described below. These watches are disposed of at low-cost because we find that one of the problems is pressure of time for our service staff in the UK and elsewhere and in most cases they have given them a quick check over and nothing is immediately apparent though we have to assume that there is either no real fault with the watch or something will reveal itself over time in which case it’s normally a simple case of a service, repair or battery exchange depending on the exact model.
Model: A-11
Condition: Clean as in actual images shown here
Fault: The watch is in very sound condition but not running although it is a easy enough watch to work on with a standard NH35A movement.
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Factory Description and Product Details
SKU Code: A-11
Overview
This 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.
Origin and Development
This 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.
Dimensions
Width Including Crown:38mm
Width Excluding Crown:36mm
Thickness:12.9mm
Lug Size:18mm
Lug to Lug:43mm
Lug Type:Spring
Dial Color:Black
Case Material:316L stainless steel
Caseback:Screw-down 316L stainless steel
Crown:316L Stainless steel screw down locking crown
Water Resistance:5 atm (50m/165ft)*
Movement: NH35A 24 jewel, mechanical self-winding automatic movement, with "Hacking"
Crystal:Shatter and scratch-resistant box sapphire*
Luminous Material:Luminova
Serial Number:Engraved on caseback
Strap:18mm
Packaging:Supplied in a gift box
Guarantee:24 months
Benefits of Sapphire Crystal
Synthetic 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.
Summary
The 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.
