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Budget Pilot Watches? Strap on tight, you don’t have to splash one to get one!

  • 02 Apr 2024
  • Text by Ng Wan Hao, SUTD Aviation Interest Group
top-gun-maverick
Photo: Top Gun Main Actor - Tom Cruise

This man right here needs no further introduction. The iconic aviator sunglasses, eye catchy dark green fighter pilot suit and helmet all encapsulates the essence of a pilot. But how many of you actually noticed the watch? If you did notice the watch, I applaud you and if you did not, that’s fine. It’s Tom Cruise after all.

I hoped this fun experiment exemplified that while watches are often a forgotten piece in the pilot’s wardrobe, this timeless instrument is the final piece to the pilot’s aesthetic. In this article I wish to share my interest in pilot watches, from one cash-strapped student to another, here are my thoughts on some of the affordable aviator watches that we can acquire without breaking the bank. And you don’t need to be a pilot to wear a pilot watch!

Before we dive into the 3 watches I have in mind, I want to address your biggest question: “Why own a flieger (a pilot watch inspired by WWII pilot watches)?”. Pilot watches, with their rich lineage, are more than just instruments for telling time. They’re a nod to history, a symbol of fearless adventure, and a stylish accessory all rolled into one. These watches are versatile in everyday wear and can be easily customized for your own liking.

The main difference between the different types of pilot watches is the dial. I have included a link below that explains the history of the dial types in greater detail, please feel free to read it to understand their differences. Navigating the myriad options in the watch market can be daunting. But fret not, here, I have curated a list of pilot watches that are not just affordable but also look amazing. Each of these watches are priced under 200 SGD, making them an acceptable choice for most. With that, let’s jump into our list.

Timex Expedition Chronograph Flieger. Photo: Timex

Timex Expedition Field Chronograph 43mm

Flieger Chronograph dial (Has additional functionalities: eg. stopwatch)
● Quartz movement (Accurate and low maintenance – just swap out batteries)
● Date Aperture, Leather strap
● Mineral Crystal (Decent scratch resistance)
● American brand

ORIENT Sports Watch – 42mm (UNG2004F or UNG2001D) 

Orient UNG2001D Type B Flieger. Photo: bigtimesgp
Orient, UNG2004F Type B Flieger. Photo: bigtimesgp

Type B flieger dial
● Date aperture, Green nato strap (rugged feel) or metal bracelet option (dressier look)
● Quartz movement
● Mineral glass crystal
● Made in Japan, reputable brand known for budget and quality watches

Escapement Time VH31 Type A Flieger. Photo: Aliexpress

Escapement Time VH31 – 42mm 

Type A flieger dial
● Minimalist, no date aperture
● Sapphire crystal (the most scratch resistant crystal)
● Chinese brand, popular choice for watch hobbyists

Please take my top 3 budget pilot watches with a pinch of salt, this is just my take on some underrated and beautiful variations of aviator watches available. I know the sub 100 price point may not be the ideal amount for some so I encourage you to find one that fits your pocket and wrist perfectly. On a personal note, I find the Type A flieger the most attractive dial and I hope to be getting a VH31 paired with a brown leather strap in the foreseeable future. As someone who is recently getting into the world of watches, I am elated to see how watches straps on beautifully with aviation. 

History of Dial Types
https://fliegerfriday.com/flieger-friday-everything-you-need-to-know-about-flieger-watches
Picture and Price References
Timex - Timex.com
Orient - BigtimeSG
Escapement time official store - aliexpress

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