Continuing our roundup of some of the most important watches launched this year, today, we look back at more exciting and innovative releases that are exploding in 2023. Aviation is the theme of today’s review, and there are many memorable new products being reviewed today. So please fasten your seat belts and keep your table in an upright position as we discuss five pilot’s watches from the past year.
Breitling’s Navitimer just turned 70 this year, and the brand is celebrating the occasion with the release of five new models that have been boldly redesigned. The Navitimer B01 Chronograph maintains the classic three-dial subdial layout and slide rule bezel that characterizes the Navitimer line. The new models feature a bold steel case with a choice of bronze, blue, green or silver main dials, all with black subdials, or a reverse black dial with white subdials. A range of colourways not only gives this family an innate twist, but also offers three different sizes. 46mm, 43mm and 41mm. Between a range of dial colour options and various size choices, the new model has 15 different possible variations. The replica rolex watches is equipped with a Chronometer B01 manufacture movement with COSC certification and a power reserve of 70 hours.
The Breitling Navitimer B01 Chronograph is priced at $9,000 for the 41mm version, $9,100 for the 43mm version and $9,200 for the larger 46mm version.
Arguably the most notable event on the industry calendar this year was Watches & Wonders, an international trade show that was once again the catalyst for many brands to make their major annual debuts. Among them was IWC’s presentation of its new Big Pilot 43 Top Gun, a new take on previous models in the Big Pilot Top Gun collection and the first to debut with a massive 43.8 mm diameter. The sleek ceramic case is “IWC Jet Black”, while the metal case back is adorned with the Top Gun logo and the signature markings of the Big Pilot collection. Powering the hands is IWC’s automatic caliber 82100, made of non-marring ceramic and offering a 60-hour power reserve.
The next item on our list is a model that has certainly crossed the boundaries of the pilot’s watch category in recent years. However, the Rolex GMT Master made its debut as part of the golden age of commercial aviation in 1955. This year, Rolex recalls these natural aviation roots with the launch of their latest GMT-Master II through the new “Destro” model. 126720VTNR.
Without a doubt, the most striking attribute of this version is the design of the 40 mm steel case, known as “Destro” through its crown and matching dial details where to buy replica watches. The striking 24-hour ceramic bezel completes its look, which itself is divided in the centre into a rich Kelly green and the other half black. This southern hemisphere model uses the caliber 3285, which offers a second-time zone indication, synchronized date and a 70-hour power reserve.
Swiss manufacturer Longines has a long history of making pilot’s watches, dating back to the early 20th century, and continues to define the modern DNA of the brand. Its latest combination of vintage style and modern watchmaking is the Spirit Zulu Time, released in March this year. This steel watch has a diameter of 42 mm and comes in two dial variations, one in matte black and the other in sunray blue. The bidirectional rotating bezel is coloured to match that of the dial and features a 24-hour scale, each with a contrasting GMT hand that clearly indicates the second time zone. Longines has chosen to power the watch with the caliber L844.4, which features an innovative silicon balance spring and offers a 72-hour power reserve.