A Pilot wristwatch is a specially designed watch for pilots, to make aviation easier. In the 20th Century. When wristwatches started gaining popularity amongst people of different occupations. Pilots were a bit left out since the technology used in the production didn’t suit their type of job.
In 1904 Alberto Santos-Dumont designed Cartier-Santos in a bid to create a timepiece that would reduce the number of times he removed his hands from the flight’s control. He succeeded, but the first model was a bit uncomfortable to wear as it came with a square face and a lot of screws. Since then, evolution in technology has helped watch manufacturers come up with watches that are specially designed to fit pilots’ needs.
Pilot watches feature a variety of designs, including stainless steel cases and a round dial in either gold or silver. The price of a Pilot watch can vary depending on the features and the brand you choose. If you are interested in a pilot’s watch, here are things you need to know.
1. Price and Quality
The various models of the Pilot watches range from inexpensive models to more expensive stainless steel designs. Models from Rolex like the Air King Rolex are in between in terms of price. In addition to higher costs, the more expensive watches tend to include some features that are exclusive to the higher-priced models.
For example, the more expensive models are equipped with a water-resistant stainless steel bezel. Pilot watches have an extra marked bezel, and the bezel is mostly sealed on all of the Pilot models. The dial is illuminated and includes an illuminated dial in either silver or gold for an authentic look.
The prices for these watches range from ten thousand Swiss Euros to around five hundred Euros or even more. The price will depend on the features and the brand name. It might be difficult to find extra cheap pilot watches, but the price would be worth it since these are some of the best watches you would own. Pilot watches are a symbol of enduring quality and are a great watch to own. It should be noted that they are not made exclusively for pilots, you can purchase one if you are a regular in environments with higher altitudes.
2. High-Quality Material
When you are looking at the different models of a pilot’s wristwatch, then it is a must to consider the construction of the watch. You should always be aware of how tough the materials used are. A good one should last for a lifetime. These watches can be vintage pieces in the future if looked after correctly.
3. Maintenance and Storage
Like dress watches, pilot wristwatches can be stored in secure places like a box, this is mostly wooden and polished with silky lining the inside. These boxes are best to store watches you use once in a while. Another storage option is with a valet, rack, or stand.
These are options you wear regularly, which are displayed on your nightstand or a visible place in your room you can have access to. They are not suitable for long-term storage. Another option is the pouch, this is especially useful to pilots since they do a lot of traveling and moving. With a pouch, you can securely wrap your timepiece and tuck it safely in your bag.
So What Separates a Pilot’s Wristwatch From Other Types of Wristwatches?
These small, are designed to be worn by pilots and other aviation personnel. Typically these watches have a round dial in a silver or black case and a stainless steel bracelet. Although some of the models available in the early 1900s were simple mechanical watches with an easy-to-read face, most pilots’ watches today have some type of crystal display, backlight, or LED light, and an easy-to-use, self-winding mechanical movement.
Many pilot’s watches are made with an aviation-related finish that has a polished look that is reminiscent of an oil painting. The rich patina gives the timepiece a sense of royalty, adding prestige to the wearer.
Black leather strap watches are popular. The silver or black cases have dainty straps that are notched for a comfortable fit on any wrist. Some models have a genuine scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The case also offers a long life span and anti-corrosion resistance.
Variations Of These Watches
If you have decided that this is the watch for you then it is important to look at the various options available. Pilot watches are available in a wide range of colors. They are also suitable for both men and women alike.
Pilot watches were originally designed for airline pilots. They are often either manually operated or mechanically operated. Most of these watches are designed to withstand extreme shocks such as high G-powers, high-powered winds, or extreme drops.
There are also military pilot’s wristwatches. This type of wristwatch is used by military pilots and fighter pilots. They are often made of strong stainless steel, durable rubber, or strong leather.
Another variant is the aviation GPS wristwatch. This type of watch is used by commercial airline pilots and private pilots, and even by hikers, bikers, and explorers. These watches display satellite navigation maps and the time.
Where Can You Buy One?
You can buy these watches online or at a retail store. Before patronizing any store, be sure to research and ensure they are legitimate and deal directly with the company’s distributors. One of the best stores online is WatchShopping. Make sure to check it today!
In Conclusion
When you decide that this type of watch is the right one for you, then it is time to make your purchase. A stainless steel wristwatch like this will not only be an impressive accessory but will be a reminder of your travels throughout the world. You can find watches like this online and in some local stores.
There are also wristwatches with different time zones. The most common one-hour and fifteen-minute stopwatches are available. You can also find one with a stopwatch and calendar incorporated into it.
