SKU: GG-W-113/100
This automatic self-winding GG-W-113 pattern watch is a classic design based on the models used during the Vietnam War from the 1960s to the early 1970s. It features a glass crystal and a self-winding automatic mechanical movement with the option to hand-wind if desired. The watch retains the classic 1960s outward appearance while incorporating important updates for daily use. Key upgrades include increased water resistance from 30m to 100m and a screw-down crown and caseback. This watch is part of a family that includes the A-11, based on the WWII USAAF pilots' watch, and the A-17, based on the Korean War issue model.
Modern Enhancements
All original watches, whether A-11, A-17, or GG-W-113, used plexiglass, which was adequate at the 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 "Hacking"
- 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.
