For its performance during World War II, Gen. George S. Patton called the M1 Garand “the greatest battle implement ever devised.” Similarly, with 4 million made to keep troops in sync and on time, the A-11 watch earned the title “the watch that won the war.” To celebrate the release of the Jimmy Stewart biopic “Jimmy,” Bulova recreated the iconic watch with its Jimmy model.
Also Read: World War II military fashion is making a comeback, even among civilians
Bulova was one of the original manufacturers of A-11 watches for the U.S. military during the war, along with Elgin and Waltham. With so many produced and issued to troops in all theaters of the war, the A-11 kept bomber formations synchronized and infantry assaults coordinated. This was thanks to its ability to “hack” (or stop) its timekeeping and set the time with a common reference.
While this might be a standard feature on watches today, it wasn’t so common during World War II. And although vintage examples of the A-11 are available on the used market, wearing an 80-year-old watch daily can be a hardship.
Without a full (and expensive) overhaul, a vintage watch is more prone to shock damage, crystal cracks, and don’t even think about washing dishes unless those rubber gaskets are replaced and oiled. For enthusiasts who appreciate the design of the A-11 but want modern conveniences like a reliable, automatic movement, Bulova now offers the A-11 Jimmy.
Inspired by Bulova’s own A-11 military watch, the A-11 Jimmy combines historical elements with modern technology. The silver-tone stainless steel case is finished with a detailed coin edge for vintage style and everyday durability. Powered by a 24-jewel automatic Miyota movement with a 42-hour power reserve, the A-11 is a perfect everyday watch.
The watch’s dimensions are classically conservative with a case width of 37mm and lug width of 18mm. Preserving the vintage aesthetic, the anti-reflective, double-domed sapphire crystal offers old-school charm and modern durability.
During the day, the time is easily read from large arabic numerals and hands in white contrasted against a deep black dial. When the sun goes down, Super-Luminova on the hands and markers ensure continued legibility. With 50 meters of water resistance, the A-11 Jimmy can shrug off a rain shower without issue.
Bulova’s expertise on the A-11 even assisted with the production of “Jimmy.” The company provided archival timepieces that were actually used in the film.
“The watches featured in Jimmy are original pieces from the Bulova museum, worn on screen, and they help bring authenticity to my father’s extraordinary story and the era in which he served,” said Stewart’s daughter, Kelly Stewart Harcourt.“The new Bulova A-11 Jimmy is a meaningful tribute that honors both his legacy and the history shared by so many of his generation.”
When troops returned home after the war, many of them brought back the A-11 watch that they were issued. Stewart also brought back the harsh memories of aerial combat in a B-24 over Europe which were on full display in “It’s a Wonderful Life.”
Available ahead of the movie’s world premiere on Oct. 6, 2026 and its theatrical release on November 6, 2026, the A-11 Jimmy can be ordered directly from Bulova. Pair the classic beige nylon strap with a leather A-2 jacket and you’ll be the envy of your fellow moviegoers.
Check out this first look of “Jimmy” from Burns & Co.:
JIMMY – First Look
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