Bulova has introduced the A-11 Jimmy, a new automatic watch that draws inspiration from its military past. The watch's design is rooted in the brand's history of creating timepieces for military use, where precision and readability were essential. The A-11 Jimmy features a 37mm diameter case made of stainless steel, echoing the proportions of classic military watches. Its simple yet distinctive design is a nod to the utilitarian watches of the mid-20th century.

The watch's case has a refined finish on its contours, and a particular aesthetic detail on the bezel adds texture to the overall design. The watch is protected by a double-convex sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating, enhancing scratch resistance and reducing glare. A beige NATO nylon strap with a metal buckle complements the watch's military inspiration while providing comfort and lightness for everyday wear. The A-11 Jimmy is water-resistant up to 50 meters, making it suitable for daily activities.

The black dial of the A-11 Jimmy is a faithful reproduction of classic American military watches. The dial's functional design prioritizes readability, with white Arabic numerals and Super-LumiNova-treated hands and markers for improved visibility in low light conditions. The presence of brass details adds a vintage touch, reinforcing the watch's connection to its historical predecessors. The overall design embodies the fundamental principles of military watches: clear indication, absence of unnecessary decoration, and quick readability.

The A-11 Jimmy is powered by the automatic caliber 9039, a mechanical movement that operates without a battery. The movement's energy is generated by a spring wound by the natural movements of the wrist. This mechanism features a oscillating rotor that transmits energy for automatic winding when the watch is worn regularly. The caliber 9039 has 24 jewels, which reduce friction between moving parts and promote smoother operation. The watch has a 42-hour power reserve, allowing it to function for nearly two days after being removed from the wrist.

The A-11 Jimmy's design and mechanics work together to preserve the collection's understated identity while offering a superior horological experience. The watch's two-hand architecture and slim profile contribute to its classic look. Bulova's decision to revisit its military heritage with the A-11 Jimmy aims to appeal to both history enthusiasts and fans of timeless watch designs. The watch's blend of historical style and modern mechanics makes it a unique addition to Bulova's lineup.

The Bulova A-11 Jimmy is available through the brand's official network and select watch retailers. Its public price is generally around $700, although prices may vary depending on local promotions and availability. This new interpretation of the A-11 continues Bulova's exploration of its military heritage, offering a timepiece that combines wartime aesthetics with modern automatic mechanics.

With the A-11 Jimmy, Bulova has successfully merged its military legacy with contemporary watchmaking. The watch's unique blend of historical inspiration and modern features makes it an attractive option for collectors and enthusiasts. As Bulova continues to innovate and revisit its heritage, the A-11 Jimmy stands out as a testament to the brand's commitment to horological excellence and style.

Key points

  • The Bulova A-11 Jimmy watch is inspired by the brand's military heritage and features a unique blend of historical style and modern mechanics.
  • The watch is powered by the automatic caliber 9039, offering a 42-hour power reserve and smooth operation.
  • The A-11 Jimmy is available for approximately $700, making it an attractive option for collectors and enthusiasts.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.