Aeschbach Classic Aviator Watch

SKU Code: AESCH/CLAV2

Combining the unmistakable style of the legendary pilot watches of the 1940s with modern materials and engineering, the Aeschbach Classic Aviator Watch offers the character of a vintage military timepiece with the reliability and performance expected of a contemporary watch.

Inspired by Historic Military Pilot Watches

The Classic Aviator range takes its inspiration from the oversized cockpit watches used by military aviators during and immediately after the Second World War. Early wartime models typically featured a subsidiary seconds dial positioned at 6 o'clock, while later designs adopted the sweep seconds hand seen on this model. These subtle variations allow enthusiasts to choose the style that best reflects their preferred period of aviation history.

Exceptional Presence and Readability

Striking Wrist Presence

With its substantial 46 mm stainless steel case, this watch delivers a commanding presence on the wrist. Its distinctive size and authentic military styling make it a frequent conversation piece among watch enthusiasts and collectors.

Outstanding Legibility

Designed with functionality in mind, the large black dial features bold luminous Arabic numerals and high-contrast hands, ensuring excellent readability in both daylight and low-light conditions—just as the original military aviation watches were intended to provide.

Powered by one of the most respected automatic movements available today, the NH35A offers excellent reliability, hacking seconds functionality, and a power reserve of approximately 41 hours when fully wound.

Specifications

• Movement: Seiko NH35A Automatic
• Jewels: 24
• Beat Rate: 21,600 BPH
• Power Reserve: Approximately 41 Hours
• Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
• Case Diameter: 46 mm (excluding crown)
• Lug-to-Lug Length: 55 mm
• Thickness: 15 mm
• Crystal: Scratch and Shatter-Resistant Sapphire Crystal with Anti-Reflective Coating
• Dial: Black with Luminous Arabic Numerals and Sweep Seconds Hand
• Crown: Screw-Down
• Water Resistance: 100 m / 330 ft
• Caseback: Transparent Exhibition Caseback
• Strap: 24 mm Premium Stitched Leather Strap

Why Sapphire Crystal?

One of the most significant upgrades over traditional mineral glass is the use of sapphire crystal, widely regarded as the premium choice for quality watches.

Key Advantages

Exceptional Scratch Resistance
Sapphire is considerably harder than mineral glass and remains clear and attractive even after years of regular wear.

Superior Durability
Its outstanding resistance to scratches and impacts makes it particularly popular among military personnel, law enforcement officers, security professionals, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Heat-Treated for Strength
During manufacture, sapphire crystals undergo specialised heat treatment to eliminate internal stresses and maximise durability.

Anti-Reflective Coating
The crystal features an anti-reflective coating that minimises glare and enhances dial visibility in bright conditions.

Long-Term Reliability
In our experience, the vast majority of cracked watch crystals involve mineral glass. Sapphire significantly reduces this risk, making it the preferred choice for demanding professional and everyday use.

A Design Rooted in History

The final gallery images show examples of original Second World War Luftwaffe watches that helped inspire the design of this model. While incorporating modern technology, materials, and manufacturing techniques, the watch remains faithful to the character and appearance of the historic aviation timepieces that inspired it.

Historical Context: Aeschbach Watches

Aeschbach, established in 1923, was one of many Swiss and German manufacturers producing military watches during WWII for the Wehrmacht, Kriegsmarine, and Luftwaffe. Collecting these historical timepieces can be challenging due to the sheer number of manufacturers involved, with over 100 suppliers identified to date. A group of military watch enthusiasts has compiled a nearly comprehensive list of these manufacturers, which can be accessed on their website under "WWII German Watches." Contributions to fill in any gaps in their research are welcome. See https://military-watches.net/ww2-german-watches

Historical details specifically regarding Aeschbach watches can also be seen at this Link https://drive.proton.me/urls/0RR77Z1R8W#pqREjqba4M1G

Tracked Mail

Europe: €11.75 / £9.99 / US$12.95
UK: £7.95 / €9.50 / US$10.50
Rest of World: US$22.75 / €20.50 / £17.50

Express Courier (UPS or FedEx)

Europe: €23.50 / £19.99 / US$25.95
UK (UPS/DPD): £12.95 / €15.25 / US$16.95
Rest of World: US$45.50 / €41.25 / £34.95

Shipping costs may vary slightly depending on parcel weight and dimensions. Final rates are shown at checkout. The prices above apply to approximately 85% of orders.

If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you may return it within 14 days of receipt. Items must be unused, in original packaging, and in new, resalable condition. Returns cannot be accepted for worn items, removed protective films, or any signs of use beyond normal inspection.

To request a return authorization number, please use the form at the link below.