What is an Aviator Watch?
An aviator watch is a watch which is in theory designed specifically for aviation, although such watches have also become a trendy fashion statement in some regions of the world. Some well-known manufacturers of aviator watches include Patek Philippe, Breitling, and Seiko, among many others. Many stores which stock watches sell an assortment of aviator watches, from rugged watches approved by aviation agencies for use by pilots to more ornamental versions which are inspired by watches designed for pilots.
Pilots have a number of specific needs in a watch which are met by an aviator watch. It is often necessary to know the time in multiple time zones, for example, so many aviator watches have multiple dials or a digital display which can easily be toggled. Very good visibility is also necessary, with most aviator watches having a black background which contrasts well with the hands of the watch. An aviator watch also tends to be large to ensure good visibility.
In many cases, an aviator watch can also be used as a chronometer, meaning that it can be used as a timer or stopwatch. Because pilots rely on accurate timing for navigation, a good aviator watch will be extremely accurate, with clockwork which is designed to be extremely reliable in a wide range of conditions from extreme heat to freezing temperatures. These watches can also typically operate in high humidity and they are sometimes water-resistant as well. Aviator watches designed for astronauts have special features which allow them to function reliably in space.
Pilots have long been a topic of fascination and interest for people, ever since the Wright Brothers took off at Kitty Hawk. As a result, objects associated with aviators have often carried social cachet, with people wearing things like “aviator's glasses,” bomber jackets, and an assortment of other accessories. The “aviator watch” sold in many watch stores bears little resemblance to the watches used by pilots, and in fact some pilots go sans watch, taking advantage of the extensive displays and controls in their aircraft to meet their needs.
The rise of the aviator watch, along with other luxury watches, may also be attributable to moves by watch manufacturers to heavily market their products, making them more appealing to consumers. Many modern watch companies make an assortment of collector's watches with a range of features designed to make them more appealing and desirable, and the aviator watch is an example of these product lines.
Written by S.E. Smith
