10 best aviator watches

Aviator watches, also known as pilot watches, are a specialized category of wristwatches designed with features and aesthetics inspired by aviation. These watches have a rich history and unique characteristics:

  1. Legibility: Aviator watches prioritize readability with large, easy-to-read dials and hands. The hands often feature prominent lume or glow-in-the-dark markings for visibility in low-light or nighttime conditions.

  2. Chronographs: Many aviator watches include chronograph functions, allowing pilots to time various flight-related activities, such as fuel consumption, flight duration, or navigation calculations.

  3. Tachymeter and Slide Rule Bezels: Some aviator watches have tachymeter or slide rule bezels, which assist pilots in performing calculations like airspeed, fuel consumption, and unit conversions.

  4. Large Crowns: Aviator watches often feature oversized crowns, making them easier to manipulate while wearing gloves, a common requirement for pilots.

  5. Durability: Aviation watches are built to withstand the rigors of flight and are typically constructed from robust materials such as stainless steel or titanium. They may also have anti-reflective coatings on the crystal to reduce glare.

  6. Multiple Time Zones: Many pilot watches include GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) or dual-time zone features, allowing pilots to track time in multiple locations simultaneously, which is essential for long-haul flights.

  7. Flyback Chronograph: Some aviation watches feature a flyback chronograph, which allows pilots to reset and start timing quickly with a single push of a button.

  8. Aviation Brand Heritage: Some watch brands have a strong heritage in aviation, such as Breitling, IWC, and Rolex, and are known for their aviator watch collections.

  9. Military and Vintage Styles: Aviator watches often draw inspiration from military designs and vintage timepieces. These styles feature rugged aesthetics and may include features like military time markings.

  10. Straps and Bracelets: Aviator watches can be found with various strap options, including leather, canvas, and stainless steel bracelets, catering to different preferences and intended uses.

  11. Water Resistance: While not a primary consideration for pilots, many aviator watches offer some level of water resistance for versatility in daily wear.

  12. Limited Editions: Some watch brands release limited-edition aviation watches, often in collaboration with aviation organizations or to commemorate specific milestones in aviation history.

Aviator watches are not only functional tools for pilots but also popular among watch enthusiasts and collectors due to their unique design, history, and rugged appeal. Whether you're a pilot or simply appreciate the style and craftsmanship of aviation-inspired timepieces, aviator watches offer a blend of practicality and aesthetic charm.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best aviator watches on the market
  

Invicta Men's Aviator Quartz Watch with Stainless Steel Strap, Silver, 26 (Model: 28111)

Invicta

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Invicta Aviator has been cleared for takeoff. Ready to roll with full throttle, carrying designs honoring aeronautical graphic history, each timepiece is a delicate machine waiting for its pilot in command. Whether a short trip, or a life long journey, the Invicta Aviator is your first instrument on land or while cruising the skies.

  • Blue dial, Stainless steel band
  • 50.5mm stainless steel case with a push/pull crown and Flame Fusion crystal
  • 60 minute and 60 second subdials
  • 100 meter water resistant

User questions & answers

Question: What are the other 2 dials for
Answer: One is for 60 second timer and the other for 60 minute timer.

Alpina Men's Startimer Pilot Heritage Stainless Steel Swiss Automatic Aviator Watch with Leather Calfskin Strap, Brown, 23 (Model: AL-727SS4H6)

Alpina

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Inspired by Alpina’s 1970 iconic design, the Startimer Pilot Heritage Chronograph model features a barrel case design, screw down crown and automatic chronographic movement. This model has a brown leather band with a classic pin buckle and silver dial with two black sub-dials. This classic watch has an engraved closed caseback to protect the movement of everyday elements. Aviators, sportsman and corporate movers will appreciate the precision, reliability and style of the Startimer Pilot Heritage Chronograph.

  • Startimer Swiss-made Pilot Heritage Automatic Chronograph with Monopusher
  • 3 hands, La Joux-Perret movement, engraved caseback
  • Case Diameter: 42X40. 75mm, Water Resistant: 100m/330ft
  • 3 year
  • Swiss Automatic self-winding

Product features

Precision. Quality. Elegance. Toughness.

Founded in 1883 by Alpinist’s that wanted to make the most robust watch for the outdoors, they made the first anti-shock, anti-magnetic, stainless steel & waterproof watch. With more than 135 years of watch making, Alpina’s mission is to design and engineer quality luxury sport watches that operate with the greatest precision and reliability possible in the most demanding sport environments. Alpina manufactures its watches in Geneva, Switzerland.

Alpina’s collections are the Startimer collection, which feature all pilot watches, the Alpiner collection features all outdoor adventure models and the Seastrong collection features the diving models. The Comtesse collection features the professional sport watch with feminine elegance.

As a brand founded by watchmakers who had a love for the great outdoors, we wanted to honor this fundamental part of the brand. We are excited to share this love now with our support of America’s great outdoors as in 2019, Alpina began its support of the National Parks Foundation, the official non-profit partner of the National Parks Service.

The Startimer Collection

The Startimer Pilot and Pilot Automatic offer a clean, easy to read dial with>Pilot Chronograph Date and Pilot Chronograph Big Date and select Pilot Heritage models.

The Pilot Heritage Automatic GMT models are inspired by the originals from the 1970s with the iconic barrel case design, pop of orange color with the second hand sweep and internal turning 24hr bezel.

Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage Chronograph Automatic Watch

The Pilot Heritage Chronograph Automatic has the AL-727, a monopusher chronograph Le Joux Perret Swiss movement, features 2 sub dials, chronograph dial, engraved caseback & iconic barrel 42x40.75mm case

The Pilot Heritage Automatic GMT (not displayed) also inspired by the 1970 iconic barrel case design, has an AL-555 Swiss Automatic movement, engraved caseback, 42x40.75mm case & internal 24hr turning bezel for the GMT set , but doesn't have the chronographs

Alpina Startimer Pilot Swiss Quartz

The Pilot watch with Swiss Quartz movement offers easy to read dial with Arabic indexes, date window at 3 o'clock, engraved caseback and red dial accents with a 42mm case

Alpina Startimer Pilot Swiss Automatic Watch

The Pilot Automatic has an AL-525 Swiss Automatic movement offers easy to read dial with Arabic indexes, date window at 3 o'clock, engraved caseback and 44mm case

Alpina Startimer Pilot Chronograph Big Date Swiss Quartz Watch

The Pilot Chronograph Big Date has an AL-372 Swiss Quartz movement features 6 o'clock date marker, chronograph dial, 3 pushers, an engraved caseback and 44mm case

The Pilot Chronograph Date (not displayed) has an AL-371 Swiss Quartz movement features 3 counter displays, Arabic and stick markers, date and day of the week, 3 pushers, an engraved caseback and 42mm case

Invicta Men's Aviator 45mm Stainless Steel and Leather Quartz Watch, Brown (Model: 22973)

Invicta

Based on 207 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With a bold design, this Invicta chronograph has a poised and calm ambience that’s sure to have you looking twice.

The Invicta Story

Created in a blend of fashion and class, this Invicta timepiece exhibits a bold style that adds flare to your collection.

  • Stainless steel case 45mm diameter x 12mm thick; Charcoal dial; Luminous hands
  • Japanese quartz movement, VJ55B Caliber; Assembled in Japan; SR621SW battery included; Watch weight: 80 grams
  • Brown leather band, 215mm L x 22mm W; Buckle clasp
  • Flame Fusion crystal; Push/pull crown; Stationary stainless steel bezel; 100 meter water resistant: Suitable for recreational surfing, swimming, snorkeling, sailing and water sports. Not suitable for diving.

User questions & answers

Question: Has anyone had trouble with the date advancing faster than real time? Ive had to back up the date twice since ive had it
Answer: Yes it is

Bertucci Men's 12022 A-2T Original Classics Durable Titanium Field Watch

BERTUCCI

Based on 155 reviews Check latest price
  • Equipped with our legendary U.S. Patented solid titanium Unibody case for extreme durability and comfort
  • Active Comfort ergonomic 4 o’clock crown does not impinge wrist movement
  • Integrated unbreakable titanium band retention lug bars
  • Long lasting U.S. Patented B-TYPE Heavy-Duty nylon webbing band - One size fits all
  • Reliable water resistance up 200m

Product features

Timeless, Minimalist Appearance

The A-2T Original Classic features our iconic dial with 12 / 24 markings & date. A watch that is ready for the rigors of the day. Complete with long lasting U.S. Patented B-TYPE Heavy-Duty nylon webbing band

Durable Titanium Casing

The rugged U.S. Patented 40 mm case is manufactured from solid titanium… a high performance alloy we believe to be the best material for a field watch.

Dial Luminosity

The hands and markers are treated with high performance Swiss Super Luminous material that will intensely glow for hours based on exposure to sunlight or indoor lighting... not requiring a button push (a weak point), and will not deplete battery or require two hand operation.

Bertucci 12022 A-2T Original Classics Watch | Black Nylon Strap

The Bertucci A-2T Original Classic Super Luminous features an all Swiss Super Luminous dial providing excellent readability in all light conditions. The high performance material will intensely glow for hours based on exposure to sunlight or indoor lighting not requiring a button push (which requires use of alternate hand) and not depleting the battery. The classic black numerals on white dial provides excellent contrast for easy reading. The A-2T Original Classic is also equipped with our legendary U.S. Patented Unibody solid titanium 40 mm case, long lasting B-Type DX3 ZULU heavy-duty nylon band or Montanaro B-Type made in USA leather band, durable screwdown crown & case back and scratch resistant hardened mineral crystal.

  • Case Material: Titanium
  • Screwdown caseback
  • Scratch-resistant mineral glass crystal
  • Band material: Nylon
  • Movement: Japanese quartz movement
  • Swiss super-luminous hands and luminous markers
  • Active Comfort ergonomic 4 o'clock crown does not impinge wrist movement
  • Easy to read dial with 12 and 24 hour markers
  • Water Resistance: 200m
  • 3 year battery
  • Case Diameter: 40mm
  • Band Width: 22mm
  • Weight: 1.9 oz

Dimensions, Details & Specs

From the durable, lightweight case, to the reliable Japanese quartz movement; every detail of the A-2T Original Classic is carefully thought out. 200m water resistance and and R-Type hardened mineral crystal only reinforce what is sure to be your most dependable time piece.

Timex Men's Expedition Scout 40 Watch

Timex

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This men's Timex Expedition watch is made from stainless steel and is powered by a quartz movement. It is fastened with a leather strap. The watch also has a date function.

  • Imported
  • Adjustable green 20 millimeter nylon strap fits up to 8-inch wrist circumference
  • Black dial with date window at 3 o'clock; Full Arabic numerals
  • Gray 40 millimeter brass case with mineral glass crystal
  • Indiglo light-up watch dial; Luminous hands
  • Water resistant to 50 meters (165 feet): In general, suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, but not diving or snorkeling

User questions & answers

Question: How do you change the date? There doesn't appear to be a middle setting and going around a 24 hour cycle doesn't do it either
Answer: You have to go forward with the time setting, 24 hours for each day. I just reset mine this weekend to the correct date.
Question: How does this watch stand up to outdoor use
Answer: I've had this watch for about 9 months. I've worn it during climbs up multiple 14,000+ ft peaks, subfreezing weekend camp outs, a week-long backpacking trek in the Grand Canyon, and several games of kickball. Besides some barely-noticeable scratches, it's held up very well. Would definitely buy again.
Question: Good first watch for a teenager? For a present will it fit small wrists
Answer: Hard to say, depends on wrist size. I bought this for my fiance who is 6'2" 200+lbs and it fits his wrist well.
Question: Is it loud
Answer: Yes. This watch is great but it is very loud. That would be my only "con". I've had it for about two years. I can hear it when I use a public bathroom. Never bothers me in the drawer or in the stand at night, though.

Product features

Water Resistant

We’ve taken our Timex Expedition watches to new depths with water resistant materials so you’ll be ready for any adventure.

Your Adventure Companion

Tested to withstand the elements, Timex Expedition watches are rugged tools built as a trusted companion for exploration.

Indiglo Backlight Technology

Timex created revolutionary Indiglo backlight technology, changing how the world told time in the dark.

Casio Watch (Model: GA100-1A1)

Casio

Based on 5 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The most durable digital and analog-digital watches in the industry, trusted by military personnel, Law Enforcement, surfers and outdoor enthusiasts around the world.

  • Imported
  • Water Resistance Depth: 200.00
  • Case Diameter: 51 Millimeters
  • Band Size: Mens-Standard

User questions & answers

Question: Does this watch has atomic time keeping
Answer: Yes. I'm 6'3" 245 lbs and I just lost 50 lbs. It is absolutely big enough for a 9 inch wrist.
Question: which watch is it? the blacked out version or the one with red and white writing? they are not only diffrent colors but completely diffrent watches
Answer: Please refer to the manual for Adjusting the Digital Time and date settings or you can reach out to Tech support and they will be able to walk you through the steps over the phone 1800-435-7732 option 3 for watches
Question: I have a smaller size wrist. Is this watch going to make me look like I am wearing a microwave oven
Answer: Yes the display does look like that when you push light button..
Question: Does the watch come with the box, owners manual ect
Answer: I’m sorry I lost the watch

Invicta Men's Aviator 48mm Stainless Steel Chronograph Quartz Watch, Silver (Model: 17203)

Invicta

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

With a bold design, this Invicta chronograph has a poised and calm ambience that’s sure to have you looking twice.

Sporting an intricate design and subdial system, this bold Invicta chronograph is precise on time and measurement.

  • Imported
  • Stainless steel case 48mm diameter x 12.5mm thick; Blue dial; Luminous hands
  • Japanese quartz movement, VD57 Caliber; Assembled in Japan; SR920SW battery included; Watch weight: 234 grams
  • Stainless steel band, 185mm L x 24mm W; Band is adjustable by adding/removing links; Fold over safety clasp
  • Flame Fusion crystal; Push/pull crown; Stationary stainless steel bezel with rose gold tone top bezel ring; Functional Subdials: 60min, 60sec, 10hr; 100 meter water resistant: Suitable for recreational surfing, swimming, snorkeling, sailing and water sports. Not suitable for diving.

User questions & answers

Question: Please explain the descriptions of the Sphere dimensions or sizer
Answer: 48 mm is the size of the face/dial. Not too large just the right size for most.
Question: Buen dia, el envio es gratis a colombia
Answer: No
Question: Is it light in weight
Answer: No. Actually very heavy. There is a utube video of someone weighing it.
Question: is it swiz made or chines
Answer: It says Swiss made, Japanese quartz movement but I've heard they're made here in the us

Alpina Men's Startimer Pilot Swiss Automatic Aviator Watch with Stainless Steel/Titanium Strap, Black, 23 (Model: AL-525G4TS6B)

Alpina

Product description

Whether you’re flying high or laying low, the Startimer Pilot Automatic provides Alpina’s legendary accuracy and functionality. Standing by its strong aviation history dating back to 1920, Alpina introduces this automatic, titanium/stainless steel case and bracelet timepiece. It features a date window at the 3 o’clock marker and clean, easy to read black dial with white arabic indexes.

  • Startimer Swiss-made Pilot Automatic
  • 3 hands, date, engraved caseback
  • Case Diameter: 44mm, Water Resistant: 100m/330ft
  • 3 year
  • Swiss Automatic self-winding

Product features

Precision. Quality. Elegance. Toughness.

Founded in 1883 by Alpinist’s that wanted to make the most robust watch for the outdoors, they made the first anti-shock, anti-magnetic, stainless steel & waterproof watch. With more than 135 years of watch making, Alpina’s mission is to design and engineer quality luxury sport watches that operate with the greatest precision and reliability possible in the most demanding sport environments. Alpina manufactures its watches in Geneva, Switzerland.

Alpina’s collections are the Startimer collection, which feature all pilot watches, the Alpiner collection features all outdoor adventure models and the Seastrong collection features the diving models. The Comtesse collection features the professional sport watch with feminine elegance.

As a brand founded by watchmakers who had a love for the great outdoors, we wanted to honor this fundamental part of the brand. We are excited to share this love now with our support of America’s great outdoors as in 2019, Alpina began its support of the National Parks Foundation, the official non-profit partner of the National Parks Service.

The Startimer Collection

The Startimer Pilot and Pilot Automatic offer a clean, easy to read dial with>Pilot Chronograph Date and Pilot Chronograph Big Date and select Pilot Heritage models.

The Pilot Heritage Automatic GMT models are inspired by the originals from the 1970s with the iconic barrel case design, pop of orange color with the second hand sweep and internal turning 24hr bezel.

Alpina Startimer Pilot Heritage Chronograph Automatic Watch

The Pilot Heritage Chronograph Automatic has the AL-727, a monopusher chronograph Le Joux Perret Swiss movement, features 2 sub dials, chronograph dial, engraved caseback & iconic barrel 42x40.75mm case

The Pilot Heritage Automatic GMT (not displayed) also inspired by the 1970 iconic barrel case design, has an AL-555 Swiss Automatic movement, engraved caseback, 42x40.75mm case & internal 24hr turning bezel for the GMT set , but doesn't have the chronographs

Alpina Startimer Pilot Swiss Quartz

The Pilot watch with Swiss Quartz movement offers easy to read dial with Arabic indexes, date window at 3 o'clock, engraved caseback and red dial accents with a 42mm case

Alpina Startimer Pilot Swiss Automatic Watch

The Pilot Automatic has an AL-525 Swiss Automatic movement offers easy to read dial with Arabic indexes, date window at 3 o'clock, engraved caseback and 44mm case

Alpina Startimer Pilot Chronograph Big Date Swiss Quartz Watch

The Pilot Chronograph Big Date has an AL-372 Swiss Quartz movement features 6 o'clock date marker, chronograph dial, 3 pushers, an engraved caseback and 44mm case

The Pilot Chronograph Date (not displayed) has an AL-371 Swiss Quartz movement features 3 counter displays, Arabic and stick markers, date and day of the week, 3 pushers, an engraved caseback and 42mm case

Mil-Tec Luftwaffe Me109 Aviator Vintage German WW2 Flieger Pilot Mens Watch - Military Easy to Read Calfskin Brown Leather Strap 3Atm Analog Quartz

CamoOutdoor

Based on 149 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Army pilot watch with vintage look leather strap and large dial



Great quality Luftwaffe ME 109 Pilot vintage style watch with light brown leather strap.

Modern quartz technology, luminous hands and minute points for night-time reading.

P

  • Collectible Vintage Watch design from an era of aerial bravery - World War 2 Luftwaffe ME 109 German Pilot Style WWII Aviator retro design watch from Miltec is a great addition to any collection
  • Vintage Design combined with Modern Technology - this watch has a Highly Accurate Japanese Quartz Movement more precise than a mechanical movement and is crafted with precision and reliability
  • Each Watch is Unique - the beige dial of the watch is different on each unit and has a fighter pilot oil stained look. Slide your hand into the bold style military-inspired timepiece
  • Simple and Easy to Read - three-hander with luminous hands, black hour markers, arabic minutes all in a 42 mm wide round case with diamond crown. Affording a piece of history has never been easier
  • Comfortable and Eyecatching watch - genuine brown calfskin leather strap and metalic buckle closure in a flieger design makes each timepiece a tribute to the history of aviation

User questions & answers

Question: International delivery
Answer: Yes
Question: Does this watch contain nickel
Answer: No
Question: Stainless steel
Answer: Only back top
Question: What is the warranty for this watch
Answer: HI MY FRIEND I DON'T KNOW WHAT IS THE WARRANTY ON THAT WATCH, BUT I HAVE 3 YEARS USING IT AND IT WORKS PERFECTLY, VERY GOOD WATCH THANK YOU

Invicta Men's Aviator Quartz Watch with Stainless Steel Strap, Gold, 22 (Model: 28896)

Invicta

Based on 35 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Invicta Aviator has been cleared for takeoff. Ready to roll with full throttle, carrying designs honoring aeronautical graphic history, each timepiece is a delicate machine waiting for its pilot in command. Whether a short trip, or a life long journey, the Invicta Aviator is your first instrument on land or while cruising the skies.

  • Blue dial, Gold tone stainless steel band
  • 49mm stainless steel case;Push/pull crown;Flame Fusion crystal
  • 100 meter water resistant
  • 60 second, 60 minute, 24 hour subdials

User questions & answers

Question: Is this a good watch
Answer: yes, for the money! It’s no Omega....
Question: Can i remove links to fit my wrist
Answer: Links can be removed by your local watchmaker

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