A “pilot’s watch” is a category of tool watches that has no clear-cut set of requirements. A brief survey of watches used by aviators throughout the 20th century reveals a wide range of timepieces that range from small, minimal and almost dress watch-like to big and brash, loaded with bezels, markings and complications. There are, however, a few key concepts that characterize pilot’s watches, notably legibility and functionality. Vague as those concepts are, you’d be surprised at how few watches are suitable for use in a cockpit. These three vintage pieces, however, have these traits and were models actually used by pilots as a result, which is exactly why they’re worth collecting today.
Zodiac Hermetic Aerospace Jet
What we like: Like the Rolex GMT, the Zodiac Aerospace Jet was originally built with pilots in mind, who liked the legibility of a full 24-hour dial, and given its release in the ’60s it was not an uncommon site on the wrists of military pilots during the Vietnam War, according to Analog/Shift. This particular model, from later in the model’s run in the ’70s, looks to be in great shape, and comes with a black dial with red hour markings.
From the seller: Case is in very good condition overall with some signs of use and wear. Dial is in very good condition with some signs of age, including patina to the luminescent elements. Signed crown.
