Buying A Pilot Watch? Here Are 6 Features To Check

Pilot’s watches are popular among those who fly or fight piloting helicopters. Cartier made the first pilot watch in 1904 and so many brands have followed suit to date. A pilot’s watch is designed to withstand extremely rough conditions that a pilot would face while in the air. It also has distinctive features that are absent in regular dress watches. 

Because most pilots will be spending long periods in the air, it is crucial that the watch they wear can provide good comfort and last a long time without the need for replacement. Finding a suitable pilot’s watch will help ensure a better flight experience for the pilot and their passengers. If you’re considering buying one, here are some features you should look out for. 

1. Large Size and Highly Legible 

The design features of a Pilot’s watch are usually large and have a bezel that extends up to a full-faced timepiece with an illuminated dial. Pilot watches like the GMT-Master ii are large and highly legible so you can easily tell the time by a quick glance. Having a large watch allows the pilot to glance at the time without squinting. 

1. GMT Function 

The GMT function is a very important feature on a pilot’s watch. This is a mechanism that will tell the time in both international and local time. The most common application of this function on a pilot’s watch is the ability to tell time accurately no matter which part of the world the pilot finds himself in. 

There are several different manufacturers that make watches that have the GMT function, including Patek Philippe, Breitling, TAG Heuer, and many more. While each of these manufacturers is known for making fine watches that can cost a considerable sum, you need to consider what it is that you are looking for before making your purchase.

1. Check the accuracy 

Another feature of a pilot’s watch that is often overlooked is the accuracy of the chronograph. With features such as countdown timers, sundials, and the ability to see the seconds hand clearly, a pilot’s watch is able to remind them of how far they’ve traveled. 

you should keep in mind how accurate you want your watch to be. Most of the time, pilots prefer a brand that has a history of providing watches that are of high quality and accuracy, and you can ensure this by reading the history of the manufacture and checking the various reviews that you can find on the internet.

1. Choose between automatic or mechanical

As a pilot or a regular traveler, chances are you spend most of your time on the road and you might hardly have the chance to wind a mechanical watch daily. If this is the case for you, you should consider getting an automatic watch that can wind automatically. 

1. Circular Face 

One of the most common features of a pilot’s watch is its circular face. Although some brands produce models with a different shaped face. This feature will come in quite handy for a number of different reasons. The most obvious reason that a circular watch is popular among pilots is that it allows for easier viewing during any type of weather condition. When searching for a new pilot’s watch, this is definitely one of the features that you may want to consider.

1. Shock-proof features

A Shockproof watch is one that is resistant to shocks produced by impact or even vibrations. Pilot watches are specially designed to resist shocks produced by impact.

Shockproof watches are designed to withstand even the most extreme environmental conditions, including earthquakes and turbulence which is an occasional occurrence in airplanes. 

If you are looking to purchase a new watch that has Shockproof technology, you will be able to find many different styles to choose from. If you prefer a more classic look, you will certainly be able to find many different styles that feature a round or square face. There are also many more sophisticated designs available for those who prefer them.

In Conclusion 

When looking at the features of a pilot’s watch, there are a few important characteristics that you should be taking into consideration. While the actual features of the watch will vary, some of the more important things to take into consideration are the materials that the straps are made from, as well as what type of band it is. 

While not as heavily considered as the other main features of a pilot’s watch, comfort is a huge factor when choosing a new watch. Wearing a watch that feels right and looks good, can have a big impact on a pilot’s overall comfort while they are performing their job. With so many different styles and models available for pilots, choosing the right features in a pilot’s watch is quite easy.