A-17 U.S 1950s Korean War Pattern Automatic Military Watch with Shatter and Scratch Resistant Box Sapphire Crystal

Product Details

SKU Code: A-17

This A-17 pattern watch 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 24-jewel self-winding automatic movement and an upgraded box sapphire crystal. 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 manual hand-winding for added versatility.

The A-17 belongs to a family of military-inspired watches, including:

• A-11: Based on the WWII USAAF pilot's watch.
• GG-W-113: Inspired by the Vietnam War-era models of the 1960s and 1970s.

Crafted with a heavy-duty satin-finish case made from 316L stainless steel, the watch includes key features such as a hacking function, sweep second hand, Luminova markings and hands for nighttime visibility, and a black dial that remains true to its military roots.

Historical Background

The 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.

Following 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.

Specifications

• 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: Military-grade 316L stainless steel
• Caseback: Screw-down 316L stainless steel
• Crown: Screw-down locking crown (316L stainless steel)
• Water Resistance: 5 ATM (50m/165ft)
• Crystal: Box sapphire, shatter and scratch-resistant
• Movement: 24-jewel automatic, self-winding
• Luminous Material: Luminova
• Serial Number: Engraved on caseback
• Strap: 18mm NATO strap
• Packaging: Gift box
• Warranty: 24 months

Sapphire Crystal Benefits

Sapphire crystal is renowned for its durability and clarity, making it the material of choice for high-performance watches. Key advantages include:

• Exceptional Strength: Sapphire crystals undergo heat treatment during manufacturing to eliminate internal stresses, significantly improving durability.
• Shatter and Scratch Resistance: Ideal for military, police, and outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability under adverse conditions.
• Anti-Reflective Coating: Applied in two layers, enhancing legibility in various lighting conditions.

To 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.

The A-17’s box sapphire crystal preserves the vintage aesthetic while delivering modern performance, making it an excellent choice for collectors and active users alike.

This watch combines historical significance with modern engineering, offering exceptional value for enthusiasts and professionals seeking a durable, stylish timepiece steeped in military heritage.

• 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.