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A Texas-Based Indie Watchmaker Releases a Customizable Pilot’s Watch
DuFrane Watches’ Bergstrom is the Texas-based indie watchmaker’s take on the pilot’s watch. Coming in at 41.5mm in diameter it’s moderately sized, but the thin, coin-edged bezel allows for a large, legible dial. Inside ticks away an ETA 6498-1, a manual-winding movement with a 46-hour power reserve and tons of finishing touches like gold engraving, blued screws and Geneva stripes, all visible through a transparent case back.
Though the overall design of the Bergstrom is reminiscent of an archetypal pilot’s watch, buyers can choose between different options, making their timepiece unique. Three dial designs are available, while the case finish can be had in both matte stainless steel or matte bronze. You can also opt between a standard second sub-dial or a “horizon dial” modeled after an aircraft’s attitude indicator. In addition to the watch, you even get a Chromexel leather strap, a suede strap and a leather watch wallet — given the Bergstrom’s $875 starting price it’s an exceptional value for the money. And given that only 300 pieces are available, you’ll likely never see another person with the same exact timepiece on their wrist.