GG-W-113 U.S 1960s Pattern Automatic Military Watch with Shatter and Scratch Resistant Sapphire Box Crystal
£299.00 GBP
Product Details
SKU: GG-W-113
The GG-W-113 infantry watch originated in October 1962 when the U.S. government established specifications for military timepieces under MIL-W-3818B, which replaced the earlier MIL-W-3818A specification from March 1956. These watches were primarily manufactured by Hamilton, Bulova, and Benrus during the Vietnam War, and they remain iconic in military watch history.
In January 2009, MWC collaborated with a U.S. veterans association to recreate this legendary model. Using two original watches and their detailed specifications as references, MWC developed a modern homage. This recreation features a 24-jewel automatic movement with a hacking function, maintaining the spirit of the original hand-wound movements while incorporating a rotor for automatic self-winding. It also retains the ability for manual winding, offering versatility.
In 2023, MWC further enhanced the GG-W-113 by introducing a box sapphire crystal. This upgrade provides superior shatter and scratch resistance while preserving the authentic look of the plexiglass crystals used in the 1960s and 1970s. The result is a watch that is visually indistinguishable from its vintage counterparts but benefits from modern technological advancements.
The original Benrus model provided in 2009, dated 1965, exemplifies the historical accuracy of this recreation. As shown in the final image, MWC's homage remains true to the design and proportions of the era while improving functionality and durability.
This modern GG-W-113 is a perfect option for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a reliable, daily-wear watch that captures the aesthetics and legacy of Vietnam-era timepieces.
Specifications
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Dimensions:
- Width (including crown): 38mm
- Width (excluding crown): 36mm
- Thickness: 12.9mm
- Lug size: 18mm
- Lug-to-lug: 43mm
- 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, with anti-reflective coating*
- Movement: 24-jewel automatic with hacking function
- Luminous Material: Luminova
- Serial Number: Engraved on caseback
- Strap: 18mm NATO straps (2 included)
- Packaging: Gift box
Sapphire Crystal Benefits
Why Sapphire Crystal?
Sapphire crystal is the gold standard for watch crystals, offering unmatched strength, scratch resistance, and shatter resistance. These qualities make it ideal for military personnel, police officers, and active outdoor enthusiasts, who collectively represent over 70% of MWC’s customer base.
Advantages:
- Durability: Over 90% of cracked watch crystals are made from mineral glass, even when hardened. Sapphire crystals are significantly more resilient under adverse conditions.
- Heat Treatment: Sapphire crystals undergo a manufacturing process that removes internal stresses, resulting in exceptional strength.
- Anti-Reflective Coating: Two layers of coating enhance legibility in various lighting conditions.
- Modern Applications: Sapphire crystal is now used in devices such as the latest iPhones, showcasing its premium quality.
Though sapphire crystal comes at a higher cost, its durability and performance make it a worthwhile investment for higher-end watches like the GG-W-113.
This watch represents a seamless blend of heritage and modernity, making it an exceptional choice for collectors, military history enthusiasts, and those seeking a rugged yet stylish timepiece for everyday wear.
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