With origins steeped in aviation lore, the pilot watch has since transcended the cockpit to become a timeless style component, noted as much for its elegance as its durability.

The first pilot watch can be attributed to none other than the iconic Louis Cartier:

Inspired by a friend’s complaint concerning the difficulty in reading one’s pocket watch while piloting a plane, Cartier designed a watch of his own that could be worn on the wrist and read in a glimpse — and the rest, as they say, is history.

The pilot watch has changed very little since Cartier’s initial design, and for good reason. Noted for its wide, comfortable wristband and generous display, the pilot watch is not only ideal for motorists, aviation enthusiasts, and sailors, but the man who moves from the office to higher altitudes at momentary intervals.

Built to stand up against gravitational as well as extreme climate changes, the pilot watch is also resistant to vibrations and centrifugal force, keeping time no matter the height, destination, or circumstances. If ever there was a watch for the gentleman explorer at heart, this pilot timepiece is it.

The pilot watch is a testament to the universal truth that style need not come at the sacrifice of quality and reliability. Cartier certainly knew it, and the modern man who upholds this sentiment would surely make him proud.

Why not indulge your own inner Charles Lindbergh or gift a man of similar stature with a timepiece designed for the true gravity-defying spirit?

Best Aviation Watches for Men

1. Seiko Sna411 Flight Alarm Chronograph

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You will be ready for some serious travel expeditions with the Seiko Flight Alarm aviation watch. A coin-edge bezel offers a standout style, and multiple dials and alarms let you set the course for timely arrivals through many time zones. The brushed steel look has a more subtle and polished aesthetic, making an excellent day-into-night watch.