Elgin A-11 'U.S. Army Air Forces'

Take a look at vintage black and white photographs from the Second World War, and you might spot some interesting wristwear.

Though U.S. forces were issued more than one field watch throughout the duration of the conflict, by far the most well known among them is the now-iconic A-11. Positively diminutive by modern standards at roughly 31mm across, these hand-wound beauties were produced by American watch companies Elgin, Bulova, and Waltham. Tens of thousands were made at an industrial scale, but to find one in good condition in the 2020s is a difficult feat, indeed.

Which is why we’re so excited to bring you this particular timepiece: Made by Elgin Watch Company, it’s housed in a 31mm chrome-plated brass case with ‘holey’ lugs, an acrylic crystal, an oversize crown, and a coin-edge bezel. It features a matte black with 'Arabic' indices and a matching 'kite' handset — designed for legibility above all else.

Flip the watch over and it’s still possible to make out the faint factory engraving that graced each A-11 caseback, detailing spec and issue details, as well as the manufacturer and the issued branch — in this case, the U.S. Army Air Forces. Powered by a hand-wound movement from Elgin and paired to one-piece olive green nylon strap, this is the prototypical field watch, and it’s no small exaggeration to say that it’s also ‘the watch that won the War.’

Though it may be small by any contemporary measure, throw this little guy on with jeans and a t-shirt — maybe save the vintage military uniforms for the re-enactors! — and you’ll absolutely be the coolest guy at the party.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.