Pilot's Watches Take Off

You don't have to be an aviator to appreciate the good looks and high-tech features of pilot's watches.

By William George Shuster, Senior Editor -- JCK Online, 3/1/2004 2:00:00 AM

The popularity of oversized watches and the 2003 centenary of the Wright Brothers' first successful flight have renewed interest in the pilot's watch, which marks its own 100th birthday in 2004. Pilot's watches originally were created to meet the needs of aviators, both professional and amateur. But in recent decades, the watches also have become popular with consumers who enjoy multi-technical timepieces, consider them a fashion statement, use them when traveling, or just dream of flying. And watchmakers have responded accordingly. Today, there are many authentic pilot's watches, as well as those with features based on pilot's watches or designs influenced by the pilot's watch "look." Here are a few of many now available.

What Is a Pilot's Watch?

Many jewelers assume a pilot's watch is simply a complex timepiece filled with subdials. However, the basic characteristics actually evolved in the early 20th century to help pilots and combat aviators fly. Those include a larger-than-normal case and dial (often dark or black) with large Arabic numerals, all for easy reading. Luminous markings helped pilots read the watches in dim light or at night. The watches often were chronographs, with a revolving bezel and large crown for ease of use by early pilots, who wore gloves. Navigational aids and features such as circular slide rules and two or more time zones began to be added in the 1930s and '40s.