The Complete Calibre Guide To Pilot Watches

What is a pilot watch?

Pilot watches were originally designed to provide convenience and support to those undertaking the daring pursuit of aviation. Computers in the cockpit simply didn’t exist back in the day, and so pilots turned to the wristwatch as a practical tool in which to help them with things like calculating their distance traveled and fuel burn, as well as timing events. Since then, the pilot watch’s evolution in both style and technology has earned it a place as an essential bit of kit for pilots, travellers, and those appreciative of an effortlessly stylish and masculine aesthetic.

To remain elegant yet robust and efficient is no small feat, but the pilot watch achieves it with ease. Their size and simplicity is down to the pilots of the time needing to use it, all while navigating an aircraft and wearing large gloves. Nowadays, it’s exactly this allure that has made it iconic. No longer only for those flying thousands of feet above sea level, pilot watches hold a charm that appeals to first-time watch buyers and fully fledged aficionados alike.

The history behind the pilot watch

From visionary innovators the Wright brothers, to steadfast pioneer Ameila Earhart, the history of aviation is steeped in legend and admiration. Each accomplishment a coming together of ambition and engineering excellence. Not too dissimilar then to the innovative heritage of luxury timepieces.

Timepieces first took to the skies at the very start of the twentieth century, where in 1906, Alberto Santos-Dumont achieved the coveted accomplishment of the first flight to take off under its own power. During this time, Santos-Dumont complained to long-time friend Louis Cartier that the pocket watch was proving to be too impractical for flight. Inspiration soared and Cartier created the first example of a pilot watch, the Cartier-Santos.

Since then, timepieces have been on board during many pivotal moments in world history. From Louis Blériot becoming the first man to fly across the English Channel, while wearing a Zenith timepiece, to the scores of World War II pilots whose need for precision and performance dictated many of the features we still see today.

Take a more comprehensive voyage into the history of the pilot watch.

Additional bezel markings

Having a range of additional markings on the bezel allows pilots to make any necessary calculations while in the air. From fuel burn to wind correction angles, this is an integral feature.

With a big crown, rivets on the strap, and a large, clear dial, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch IW501001 featured above, embodies the key features of a pilot watch.

Choosing the right pilot watch

Our advice for choosing a pilot watch is exactly the same as choosing a luxury watch. Set a budget, research extensively, and take your time. You’re perhaps in a more desirable position than some searching for a timepiece, as you already know which style is right for you.

The characteristics and aesthetics of a pilot watch make them a practical timepiece that’s in keeping with a casual, smart-casual, or business-casual style. You’ve also got the status of a watch that comes with such a spirited history.

Thanks to their rich history of innovation and craftsmanship of pilot watches, Breitling and IWC Schaffhausen are two excellent brands to begin your search with.

Our Buyer’s Highlights

Our Head of Watch Buying, Mark Toulson, has selected three timepieces, iconic in both heritage and style, that embody the spirit of a pilot watch.

First produced in the 1930s for civil aviation purposes, the Pilots family has become known for its precise timepieces with outstanding technology. This IWC Men’s Big Pilot’s Watch optimises performance in even the most demanding conditions with its reliable automatic movement, 7-day power reserve and soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields. Secured within a 46mm stainless steel case, this high performance timepiece features a confident black dial equipped with luminescent Arabic numerals, a power reserve display and a date display at 6 o’clock. Water resistant to 60 metres, this reliable watch fastens with a black leather strap complete with a bold orange lining for a vibrant touch of colour.

The classic Navitimer features a generous 46 mm diameter accentuating its presence on the wrist and enhancing the originality of its design, while optimizing the readability of the dial and the circular aviation slide rule. A transparent caseback reveals the chronometer-certified, high-performance self-winding chronograph caliber, Manufacture Breitling Caliber 01. In addition to the steel and steel & gold versions, this model is available in red gold. A larger-than-life take on the legend.

Historically, Longines has accompanied legendary pioneers as they conquer air, land and sea. Today, the winged hourglass brand has drawn inspiration from this heritage to create Longines Spirit, a collection with an impeccable pedigree. This collection links history with innovation by combining references to the glory days of aviation with present-day aesthetic and technical requirements. These resolutely contemporary timepieces are a testimony to the pioneering spirit that has inspired the brand since its earliest days. A glowing tribute to these exceptional men and women who, by a record, an exploit or a display of courage, have left their mark on history – pushing new generations to surpass themselves.