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Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch | Bulova Lunar Pilot “Moonwatch”
The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch needs no introduction. It arguably has one of the coolest stories behind the watch, and knowing that the modern-day version is extremely close to the actual watch worn on the Moon makes it that much better.
Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch (left) and Bulova Lunar Pilot “Moonwatch”
But, there is another watch that ventured into space – the Bulova Lunar Pilot. The history of this watch is still not fully known, but in 1971 the crew members of Apollo 15 were allowed to take personal items with them into space. Dave Scott, a crew member, took a Bulova-provided backup watch and ended up wearing it on the Moon after his Speedmaster crystal popped off.
In 2015, after the auction of the actual Bulova from 1971, Bulova re-launched the model with the name Lunar Pilot. The Lunar Pilot is a faithful recreation of the watch worn on the Moon and has a very distinct aesthetic that looks similar to what Omega produced (they were going after the same NASA contract after all!). It has a deep black dial with white text, hands and indices. It is a slightly larger watch at 45mm diameter, and this did initially put some off, but thanks to its fluid design and nicely positioned chronograph pushers, it wears well. It is offered on a bracelet and strap.
There is even a black PVD version so you can find the look that suits you. Inside, it is equipped with a quartz movement, however, it is not just any quartz, it is a direct descendent of Bulova’s Accutron technology. It operates at 262Hz and is more accurate and reliable than a standard quartz movement. Let’s be honest though – you are buying this watch for the story. You are buying a watch that was worn on the Moon. RRP $675 with a bracelet, but it is cheaper on the strap and you can find offers from various retailers.
Further reading: 7 NASA Astronauts Wearing Their Gold Omega Speedmaster Professional Apollo XI Limited Editions: Celebrating 50 Years Of Man On The Moon
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso | Oris Rectangular
The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso is a unique watch first created back in the 1930s. Understandably it is not possible to find a watch that offers the “Reverso” case, however, there are some convincing alternatives. The one that should be on your radar is the Oris Rectangular (I’m surprised they couldn’t come up with a better name).
Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso (left) and Oris Rectangular
There are several rectangular watches out there, but the Oris stands out with its strong art deco dial and range of colors. It offers the classic rectangular watch look with a well-designed dial accentuating the shape of the case, and the colors ensure that you can find one for your style. It is not a completely original look, but Oris has managed to build a lot of charm into the watch.
What is not instantly noticeable are its dimensions, and size is significant with rectangular watches as they can be too long or too wide, the lugs can be too thick, or it can sit too tall on the wrist. The Oris manages to get this all right. There is even some extra complexity in the case with a step along each side and subtle curves.
This is a watch that won’t be for everyone, but if you are after a dressier timepiece or something vintage-inspired, the Oris Rectangular is a good start. RRP around $1,900.
Further reading: 90 Years Of The Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso
IWC Pilot’s Watch | Hamilton Pilot Pioneer
IWC is synonymous with Pilot’s watches and much of the brand is built on them. The IWC Mark series is the purest form of a Pilot’s watch, but comes at a cost given the build quality and heritage of the brand. There are, however, several options out there when looking for a Pilot’s watch, so when it comes down to picking an affordable alternative, it comes down to a few factors. Brand heritage, build quality and of course, looks. The Hamilton Pilot Pioneer fits the bill perfectly.
IWC Pilot’s Watch (left) and Hamilton Pilot Pioneer
Hamilton has been around since 1892 and was originally founded in Lancaster, Pennsylvania (it moved to Switzerland in 1969). Hamilton has had its fair share of technological achievements, but what we care about here is its affiliation with the military. Hamilton first supplied the US Navy in 1942, however, the Pilot Pioneer takes inspiration from a 1970s watch issued to the British Air Force.
The modern re-issue retains the same dimensions as the original (33x36mm) and is very focused on being a true, purposeful Pilot’s watch. The case is fully brushed, and the dial is a textured black with minimal text and white Arabic numerals. The hands and indices are filled with an aged white lume, giving it a true vintage design.
The result? Extreme legibility – a defining feature of the category. It doesn’t stop there. The mechanical movement, surprisingly, is very similar to the original used in the 1970s although you do now get an 80-hour power reserve.
Oh, and 100m water resistance! It fulfills on brand heritage, build quality and, in my opinion, looks as well. The best part is, it is available for around RRP $900. That is a fraction of the cost of the IWC.
Further reading: A Crash Course In Flieger (Pilot) And B-Uhren (Navigator) Watches Covering Both Historic And Modern Examples (A Pilot’s Watch Photofest!).
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