Founded by two French and narrow, reliable watches built in America, the legendary military watches of the 1940s revive, in particular the A-11 and Bullova clocks of type A-11. This was the whole idea behind Praesidus, accessible but appealing, but appealing military watches. The latest clock from the brand based in Phoenix is founded in cooperation with our good friends, the French watch website The Watch Observer, founded by Thomas and Pierre Gisclard. And to create this cool version of the A-11 type 44, the two men worked closely with the historian of the US Air Force Grégory Pons, which led to a homage to the 533rd Bomb squadron of the US Air Force.
An original A-1 clock (image of pre-constrasidus)
This new version of the A-11 type 44, like most A-11 models created by Praesidus, is inspired directly by the A-11 model, which was produced during the Second World War according to the specifications FSSC 88-W-800. Exhibited from the US Army, the most important technical features of a clock were listed, which should equip his planes, among other things. Several American brands (for example Bullova) have made this A-11, which was worn during the operation overlord by soldiers of the US Marine, the code name for the invasion of Normandy in June 1944.
For this special edition, the founders of the Watch Observer opted for the larger, more modern version of the A-11 from Praesidus, which also exists in a historically loyal 32 mm case (objectively cool, but not for everyone …). This type 44 is therefore based on a 38 -mm housing made of surgical stainless steel with a thickness of 13 mm and a compact 45 mm length. As an allusion to the original chrome -plated watches, the case is fully polished and equipped with a corrugated bezel. And to stay true to the past, the watch has a vintage-double acrylic glass in vintage style. Nevertheless, the water resistance was upgraded to 100 meters, which makes it reliable under all conditions. The crown is slightly oversized, but not too much. All in all a simple and focused watch that is designed for action.
Things become something special on the dial. Do not expect any decorations here again. It's all about readability and simplicity. The matt black dial has embossed digits and a slim minute that loyal to the original A-11 models. Two elements have emerged for the edition of the Watch Observer. First, the hands with rhodium-plated and polished are, with a so-called glaive or sword style (instead of leaf-shaped hands). Their length was carefully calculated, so that your tips indicate exactly the display to be read. The tiny hand and the central second hand have a curved tip that follows the curve of the plexiglass. Second, it has a clear marking that indicates the name of the model (A-11 type 44) in a stencil font for US military equipment. Classic military, factual style … All elements of the dial (hands, digits and tiny route) are covered with Superluminova old radium, which also makes it practical at night.
The French duo moves to the back of the clock and has chosen an unmistakable feature, a engraving that represents the stain of the 533rd bomb squadron of the US Air Force. As a member of the 8th Air Force, the remarkable success of this bomber squadron includes his participation in the big week and the crucial support for the invasion of Normandy in June 1944, where it bombed near bridges and airfields. The individual number of the watch is also visible. Under the solid steel back there is a hand-controlled movement, the Landeron 21 (an alternative to ETA 2804-2). This proven movement strikes around 4Hz with a 36-hour electricity reserve and with 17 jewels. It has a stop second mechanism that enables a watch at a fair price.
For the vintage look of this limited edition of A-11 Type 44, the watch is equipped with a bonkip steel bracelet, which was created between the late 1920s and early 1930s and was later taken over by the Royal Air Force Pilot. This resistant bracelet is easy to adjust and can be worn against the skin or via jacket. Also included in the box is a Khakisch-tone, super solid canvas belt (photographed here) and gives the watch a proper military note. Both are equipped with quick publication.
Price and availability
The Praesidus X The watch observer A-11 Type 44 Limited Edition is a limited edition of 250 pieces. It can be ordered on the website of Praesidus or via the Watch Observer online shop. It is price at EUR 695 (including taxes and shipping in France) or USD 675 (excl. Tax and shipping). The deliveries are expected before December 20, 2025.
https://monochrome-watches.com/praesidus-x-watch-observer-a-1-type-44-limited-edition-aktible-pilot-watch-review/