Our latest buying guide will show you some of the best pilot watches for men we could fine. Pilot watches are big beautiful classics that complete any true watch collection. But before we get started with the list. Let’s clearly define, what exactly is a pilot watch.
What is a Pilot Watch?
The first pilot watches were initially issued to pilots during WWII. But they didn’t get their start in the U.S. Air Force. The original pilot watches were issued to German pilots.
Pilot watches have standard characteristics. They have simple movements, but may also include a chronograph. The watch cases are large and easy to read, some could be upwards of 50mm. The watch bands are either nato or leather. They needed to be durable and handle large fluctuations in temperatures.
Pilot watches also have large crowns so they can be adjusted wearing gloves. Some were designed for navigators, but most were specific to pilots.
Today’s pilot watches and the watches on this list tend to be more stylish and the cases will be smaller to fit a wider range of wrist sizes.
First up on our list is the Breitling Blackbird Pilot Watch.
Breitling Blackbird Pilot Watch
The Breitling Blackbird Pilot Watch ($3981) would make a stylish addition to any wardrobe. It features a beautiful bold titanium case, with a contrasting military green canvas strap, a black titanium bezel, and luminous hands. It’s not just stylish and bold but also very tough and durable thanks to its scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, a screwed locked crown and it is also water resistant up to 300 meters. Perfect for collectors this striking watch is sure to be one of your favorites.
Archimede Pilot 39 Watch
With a design that harks back to the classic watches of the past, the Archimede Pilot 39 Watch ($551) is one of the most affordable watches on our list. It features a stainless steel case, a finely brushed surface for extra texture, luminous dials and hands and high-quality Swiss made movement. But that’s not all this watch is also available in a range of colors and can even be engraved. It would make a great addition to any collection.
Bell & Ross Aviation Black Pilot Watch
The Bell & Ross Aviation Black Pilot Watch ($2995) is a prime example that shows pilot watches are real works of art. It features an impressive range of features including a black ceramic case, leather alligator strap, fixed bezel, luminous hands, an analog dial, date positions, a stunning scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and the case is 42mm in diameter. Just slightly larger than the classic 40mm. The perfect way to add some flair to your favorite outfit.
IWC Pilot Black Automatic Chronograph Men’s Watch
Offering a slightly more traditional design with some modern touches the IWC Pilot Black Automatic Chronograph Men’s Watch ($3845) would make a great collector’s piece. It features a stainless case, a luxurious black Santoni leather strap, a black analog dial with black luminescent hands and hour markers, a date and day of the week display and a scratch resistant sapphire crystal. It’s got all the features you could need in one amazing package.
Fortis Pilot Watch
This fantastic Fortis Pilot Watch ($700) offers a host of features that make it a fashionable and versatile accessory all at an affordable price. It features a stainless steel case, black leather strap, fixed bezel, automatic movement, a 38-hour power reserve and it’s also water resistant up to 100 meters. The case is 41 mm in size will look great on your wrist. Fashionable, practical and long lasting, you won’t be disappointed with the Fortis Pilot Watch.
