Good kit

The classic IWC aviator watch is simple, refined and suits everyday wear in addition to use in the cockpit. Like its predecessors the Mark XVIII’s face is still reminiscent of an old school altimeter and for the “old timers” who have worked long and hard to afford one of these watches, its minimalist design ensures legibility no matter what the flying conditions.

BREITLING NAVITIMER

From $9,975.00

www.watchdirect.com.au

Breitling is synonymous with aviation and the latest iteration of its flagship Navitimer retains its “wrist instrument” status with the circular slide rule keeping pilots safe when needing to divert with low fuel during a total electrics failure in the cockpit. The face is now larger, reinforcing the age-old pilot belief that no aviation watch is too big. This timeless piece remains the classic aviator favourite.

BREMONT MBII

From $4,150 ex GST

www.selfridges.com

Bremont is the relatively new kid on the block. Founded by two aviator brothers in the UK, Nick and Giles English, Bremont has aligned itself with iconic UK brands such as Jaguar and, more importantly for aviators, the famed Martin Baker. We weren’t able to trial the MBI watch, only those who’ve survived an ejection get one of those, so we availed ourselves of the MBII. Nice and weighty with copper overtones the watch serves as a practical aviators watch and looks the piece too. The watch is also a favourite for Aussie military pilots where Bremont creates signature watches customised for the flying unit (see left).

SINN 103 TI UTC IFR

From $4,895.00

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No-one doubts the quality and efficacy of German engineering and the Sinn 103 Ti UTC IFR is the BMW of aviator watches. Built to the German DIN 8330 Horology Standard for aviator watches, this watch is built for IFR, looks sharp and will be a nice piece to hand down to your children when they earn their own wings.