Bulova: A Type A-11 military issue wristwatch

Bulova: A military issue wristwatch
Model: A-11
Date: Circa 1944
Movement: 16 Jewel Cal.10AK CHS manual wind
Dial: Black, white Arabic numerals, 'railroad' outer minutes track, centre seconds, luminous hands
Case: Chromium-plated tonneau form, screw-down back stamped 'Type A-11 Spec No. 94-27834', inner cover, pull-out crown
Strap/Bracelet: Associated black leather
Closure: Steel buckle
Size: 32mm

The Type A-11 was introduced in 1942, with three American watchmakers being commissioned — Elgin, Waltham, and Bulova — following U.S. Government specifications. Although these three brands were already making watches for the military, the Government determined that a more robust, more accurate wristwatch was needed for the United States’ entry into the war.

Many thousands of the Type A-11 were produced for the infantry and paratroopers, designed and built to be solid and reliable. As with other military watches, the emphasis was on mechanics above looks, requiring a manual-wound and hackable movement (to time precise military operations), a centre seconds hand, and a shock-proof acrylic crystal. Because they were manufactured during the war, cases were typically made of chromium-plated brass for higher corrosion resistance but also because steel was reserved for munitions and vehicles.

To be as robust as possible, the movements used 16 jewels to reduce wear and tear on the main gears caused by perpetual friction and were built to withstand extreme use. The Elgins were powered by the calibre 539, the Walthams by a 6.0 Premier movement, and the Bulovas, as with the present lot, by the calibre 10AK CHS.

Condition Report

• Case and back: Heavily scratched.  Plating worn with the base metal showing through in places.


• Crystal: Typical abrasions but has been polished.  Small bruise to the edge at 5.


• Dial: Good with clear indices.  Tiny mark on minutes track at 5.


• Hands: Tarnishing and craquelure to lume.


• Strap: Heavily worn and grimed.


• Movement: Winds, sets and runs.  Unable to access movement to inspect as dust cap is sealed in by vulcanised gasket.


• Accompaniments: None present.

Unless otherwise stated, all watches are likely to have been serviced and/or repaired in their lifetime and may have had parts replaced.  While a watch may be described as 'working' at the time of the report, they are not guaranteed for timekeeping, mechanical durability or waterproofing (where applicable) - it is advised that all watches are inspected and serviced by a qualified jeweller or horologist before full use. The cost of servicing can be significant and so we strongly advise obtaining a quote before placing your bid.

Bidding indicates acceptance of the condition of the lot.  All lots are sold subject to general wear and tear commensurate with age and handling over time and only obvious faults will be mentioned after a visual inspection. If you have particular specialist questions on any lot, please state these before bidding since we cannot and will not provide a forensic examination of any lot but only a general condition report as a guide only. All condition reports given by Halls Holdings Ltd's representatives or agents are statements of opinion and not fact. If you require any further information about any lots in this auction or about bidding please do not hesitate to contact us again.