A-11 1940s WWII Pattern Automatic Military Watch With Shatter and Scratch Resistant Box Sapphire Crystal on Matching Retro "Bonklip" Pattern Bracelet with an Additional Canvas Strap

Product Details

SKU Code: A-11/BL

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.

The watch features a retro "Bonklip" 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 Jaeger LeCoultre military issue watch on a Bonklip bracelet.

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: 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/Bracelet: Retro Stainless Steel Bracelet and a Canvas 1940s Pattern Strap
• 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.

Bonklip Bracelet Overview

The Bonklip bracelet 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.

Key Features

• Material: Typically stainless steel, lightweight yet robust, with minor variations in design.
• Construction: Interlocking metal links with a ladder-like appearance ensure excellent flexibility and comfort.
• Adjustability: The clasp allows for micro-adjustments to fit various wrist sizes without tools.
• Clasp Design: A secure and easy-to-use mechanism, ideal for quick adjustments, especially in military settings.
• Style: Retro, minimalist, and perfectly suited for vintage or military-pattern watches.

Historical Context

Patented 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.

Modern Appeal

Today, 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.

The watch features a retro "Bonklip" 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 Jaeger LeCoultre military issue watch on a Bonklip bracelet.

• Delivery

  • Shipping Information

    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.

    Order and Shipment Confirmation

    You will generally receive two emails after placing an order:

    1. Confirmation of receipt of the order and payment.
    2. Notification of shipment once the goods are dispatched.

    Processing Time: Orders are shipped by the Post Office or Courier within 48 hours of payment processing. Note that our shipping centers are closed on Saturdays and Sundays; therefore, orders placed during this time may take up to 72 hours to be dispatched. This includes orders placed after 14:00 (CET) on Fridays.

    Estimated Delivery Times (in working days):

    • Europe:
      • UPS: 2 to 5 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 14 days
    • UK:
      • DPD or UPS: 24 hours
      • Tracked Mail: 1 to 2 days
    • Rest of World:
      • UPS: 3 to 10 days
      • Registered Mail: 7 to 21 days*

    *Some countries are notoriously slow to process goods on arrival, including Israel, Hong Kong, Macau, Mexico, South Africa, and some South American countries. Significant delays can also occur in other countries in Africa. For time-sensitive deliveries, we recommend using UPS, DHL, or FedEx.

    All shipping estimates exclude Saturdays and Sundays.

    While we strive to deliver within the above timeframes, they are guides, and delivery cannot be guaranteed. We are not responsible for delays caused by couriers or any national postal service. If your goods are not delivered within the estimated time, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch, and we will do our best to resolve the issue promptly. We are not liable for any loss caused by late delivery.

    Our delivery charges cover the cost of shipping to you but do not include import charges and administration fees to clear the goods when entering your country if applicable.

    It is the purchaser's responsibility to understand that charges may be levied and to pay all subsequent import taxes and duties on goods shipped to their country. If items are returned to MWC due to rejected payment, subsequent charges incurred (such as import duty and processing costs) will be deducted from any refund issued. For more information, please contact accounts@mwc-distribution.com

    If you need to clarify any details regarding local taxes for your location, please contact us before placing an order. For clarification, goods shipped to the EU can be dispatched from our EU location if ordered at https://mwc.eu/, and we also have a dedicated UK shipping center at https://mwcwatches.co.uk/. In the United States, orders under $800 do not incur taxes or fees. In Australia, orders up to AU$1000 are tax-free. Many other countries have similar regulations, which you can verify using this helpful link: Zonos De Minimis Values and also this link to calculate taxes for shipments to most countries worldwide https://www.simplyduty.com/import-calculator/

    We do not accept liability for goods lost after delivery to a PO Box. We reserve the right to cancel orders where the delivery address is a PO Box. Similarly, we do not accept liability for goods lost after confirmed delivery to APO or BFPO locations.

    Customer Notification: It is the customer's responsibility to notify us if goods are not received within 21 days of the estimated delivery date. If no notification is made within this period, the buyer is deemed to have received the goods.

    Safe Place Deliveries

    Some delivery companies allow for delivery without a signature, leaving the item in a "safe place" (e.g., shed, garage, porch). If you choose this option, it is at your own risk. We initially send items by a secure service requiring a signature or proof of delivery. Using a "safe place" increases the risk of theft. We advise ensuring deliveries require a signature to ensure safe receipt.

    Failed Deliveries

    If an item is refused and returned to us, we will refund the order less the outbound and inbound shipping charges once the item is received back at our packing and shipping center. For business locations, please notify the receiving personnel of the expected delivery to avoid refusals. Usually, we will be notified of delivery issues and will email you for instructions. It is important to act quickly to avoid return and associated costs.

    For any questions or further assistance, please contact us at admin@mwc.watch.