The elite among watches. Pilot watches from Breitling, IWC, Zenith, and Longines

Wristwatches definitely belong to this category of instruments. It's not just about the exact time and date. Average fuel consumption, airspeed, distance, multiplication, division—an experienced pilot can calculate all of this if they have the right watch on their wrist. You may argue that in today's digital age, all the necessary calculations are performed by much faster on-board instruments, which make the slide rule on the watch face seem like a relic. I can only agree, but I would add that it is an incredibly beautiful relic that has thousands of enthusiastic fans around the world. Indeed, pilot watches are a phenomenon that has remained with us despite undeniable scientific and technical progress. Digital on-board instruments can calculate almost anything. But can you wear them on your wrist? Can you show them off to your friends? Can you just admire them? Probably not.

Breitling Navitimer

Breitling is undoubtedly the king of aviation watches with its legendary Navitimer model (AB0127211C1A1). The iconic bezel, logarithmic scale on the dial, chronograph, and unmistakable steel bracelet all combine to create the perfect pilot's watch. But the Navitimer offers much more. Hundreds of wrists of real pilots. Thousands of hours spent in the air. Reliability that the most qualified have relied on. Over the decades, the Navitimer has become a legend. A watch with a story. And on top of all that, it exudes timeless beauty. I won't go into detail about the top quality of the watches, but I will mention that the current B01 Chronograph 46 model houses an automatic in-house caliber with a 72-hour power reserve. With a case diameter of 46 mm, it is more suited to larger hands, but men with slimmer wrists need not despair, as Breitling also offers the Navitimer in 43 and 41 mm versions. As is customary with Breitling, you can also purchase various leather straps to go with the steel bracelet.

If you are looking for an iconic, time-tested watch that is not subject to trends and forges its own path, the Breitling Navitimer is definitely the right choice.

I want it!

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch

If you want to stick with pilot watches but feel that the Navitimer isn't quite right for you and you're looking for a clearer, less complicated dial, the Big Pilot’s Watch from IWC (IW501001) is definitely worth considering. It is just as robust as the Navitimer, yet completely different. The dial is free of any unnecessary clutter. Just the date, time, and power reserve indicator at the three o'clock position. Perfectly clear, perfectly organized. The unmistakable crown is an iconic feature and its size definitely belongs to the menu of this watch. Its size is justified by the past, when pilots wore thick leather gloves, which made it difficult for them to handle their watches. A major advantage of the watch is its seven-day power reserve, which is provided by the automatic in-house caliber 52110.

I would venture to say that the Big Pilot's Watch is also one of the legends of the winged world and, with its unmistakable and eye-catching appearance, represents the pinnacle of pilot watches.

I want it!

Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special

The third watch in the collection is a Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special (29.2430.679/21.C753). This model takes us back to a time when pilots, deafened by the roar of engines, could only smell gasoline, feel the sharp wind on their faces, and sense the whims of the treacherous sky. The Pilot Type 20 is a tribute to the craft of aviation, paying homage to all the pioneers of flight with its retro design. The watch is steeped in history. Whether it's the massive crown, the simple dial with Arabic numerals, or the hands, which you would be hard-pressed to find on modern timepieces. The bronze case only underscores the uniqueness of this beautiful watch. Of course, it features an automatic in-house caliber with a 50-hour power reserve. The back of the watch is decorated with a beautiful engraving of a historic aircraft and the Zenith logo. If you love things that breathe history, turn your attention to the Pilot Type 20 Extra Special watch from Zenith.

I want it!

Longines Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch

When Charles Lindbergh became the first person to fly across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927, he was accompanied by a Longines pilot's watch (L2.678.4.11.0). The model still pays tribute to this exceptional pilot and proudly bears his name. The Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch is a beautiful watch with a distinctive dial, functional bezel, and a host of features that I, as a layman, cannot fully utilize. However, that doesn't stop me from admiring these watches. They exude a whiff of the old days and a combination of elegance and adventure. Both the dial and the back case of the watch are masterpieces. The case is opaque, but it can be easily opened to reveal the beautiful automatic movement protected by sapphire crystal. Thoughtful down to the last detail. The Lindbergh Hour Angle Watch is a timeless timepiece that will delight many watch lovers.

chcem to !