It’s no secret that I very much appreciate Titoni’s efforts in making great watches at affordable prices. This brand has surprised me many times with its work. In particular, the Seascoper line is a personal favorite. But Titoni has a diverse collection of watches and much more. Another important line is the Airmaster series. These watches are elegant and classic style watches, mainly with bracelets. With this new addition to the lineup, Titoni has created a true Airmaster that perfectly embodies its name. This classic pilot’s watch may be the best Airmaster ever, and it comes with some amazing details.
At first glance, the new Airmaster Pilot looks like the classic 1940s pilot’s watch from the likes of Laco, Stowa, and, of course, IWC. Most people, myself included, will refer to the IWC Big Pilot. However, a closer look reveals some details that make it different from similar watches from all the brands we mentioned earlier. Some of them are wonderful and surprising, while others are acquired tastes.
Titoni Airmaster Pilot specs
First, let’s take a look at the details. The Titoni Airmaster Pilot has a 43 mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 13.1 mm, a lug-to-lug width of 53 mm, and a water resistance of 100 meters. I like that it’s not too big so it’s very easy to wear. The case and bezel are brushed with contrasting polished bevels.
This case has a classic round pilot’s watch shape, with beautifully curved lugs that allow its considerable size to sit comfortably on your wrist. Paying homage to tradition, it also features a fairly large crown. However, it must be stated that the diameter of the push/pull crown is “only” less than 8 mm, so it is not necessarily too large.
The case is paired with a black sandwich dial, which is a pleasant surprise. The bottom layer is a lovely vintage yellow luminous color, almost amber. Although it expresses an old night glow, it actually exceeds its age and has a unique color.
The upper dial is matte black and features cutouts for the hour numerals and five-minute markers, as well as a traditional triangle with two dots at 12 o’clock. The remaining minute markers are executed in a nice light gray that matches the overall aesthetic very well.
Airmaster pilot dial details
Two modified Alpha-style hands in brushed stainless steel float above the dial. Of course, these hands are filled with luminescence and match perfectly with the luminous dial at the bottom. What I like is that the hands are cut off at the end. Traditional pilot’s watch hands have sharp points, but these hands are decidedly more sophisticated. The central second hand is a thin, straight needle type that gives the handset a beautiful finish.
When you look at the text on the dial, you immediately notice two things. The logo on the top half of the dial is large, a little too big for my liking. Because they are placed close to the triangle, the two elements compete slightly for attention. I think if the logo was a little smaller, the overall balance would be better.
The bottom half features the “Airmaster” wordmark used on most models in the series. I’m not a big fan of this cursive font. Because it’s a little too frivolous for my taste. It’s a pretty authentic and functional dial otherwise, but it feels a little out of place, especially when compared to the “Chronometer” text below it. However, I must confess that I quickly got used to it.
Finally, the green glow is very bright and makes it fun to see the dial in the dark. Plus, it makes it easier to read the time even in dark places.
Chronometer certified Sellita SW200-1
When you turn the watch, you are greeted by a stunning case back. It depicts an old pilot with a propeller behind him. It has an impressive 3D feel. However, I’m not the biggest fan of its style and the space it takes up. I would have liked to have seen something a little more in keeping with the utilitarian vibe of a pilot’s watch, something that was easier on the eyes.
Hidden behind the camera back is the Sellita SW200-1. The undated version of this movement runs at 28,800 revolutions per hour, has 26 jewels and offers a power reserve of 41 hours. It’s also a COSC-certified chronometer with an accuracy of -4/+6 seconds per day, making it an excellent workhorse movement for this Airmaster pilot. Finally, the watch is fitted with a thick cognac-colored leather strap with a large stainless steel buckle engraved with the brand name.
Wearing Titoni Airmaster Pilot
That brings us to what it’s like to wear this watch. As you can understand, durable leather straps require some break-in. However, the quality is good, and after wearing the watch a bit, it became a bit pliable and fit snugly on my wrist. What I like about this strap is that the holes are square and close together. You can have your watch fit perfectly on your wrist, but this is by no means a luxury. Since it’s a large watch, the strap needs to fit well on your wrist. But thanks to the resizing option, that’s what you get.
As it is a large watch like this, it has a great presence on your wrist. The combination of matte black, old yellow dial and hands, and cognac colored strap is wonderful. Additionally, the different finishes on the case give the watch an extra visual shine.
To be honest, classic pilot’s watches aren’t the kind of thing I chase after as a collectible. I really appreciate the history and functional aspects of the design, but it lacks the sophistication that I usually find on dials. But this Titoni Airmaster Pilot shows that small changes like a sandwich dial can make a big difference. I also prefer Airmaster pilot hands over the hands of many of my contemporaries. And as you can see from Titoni, the overall quality is very impressive.
Final thoughts on the Titoni Airmaster Pilot
You can expect a lot from this new Titoni Airmaster Pilot. I love what this brand has created while adhering to the traditional pilot’s watch aesthetic. Taking a step away from the traditional black and white dial, it uses a sandwich dial and slightly changes the hands, creating an interesting take on the genre. These small details give the watch its personality. On top of that, the Airmaster Pilot wears very well for such a well-rounded watch.
However, I would have liked to have seen some details played out differently. The most obvious one is the font used for the “Airmaster” wordmark. Unfortunately, the back cover is also not to my liking. It’s a detail that you don’t often see, but it plays an important role in the overall look of the watch.
That said, these two comments are based on personal preference. If you like or don’t care about these two factors, this new Titoni Airmaster Pilot could be a great option for you for 1,840 EUR / 2,300 USD. This model rightly celebrates the classic pilot’s watches of the 1940s. Add in the incredible quality and we have to praise Titoni for another great job.
But what do you think about this new Titoni Airmaster Pilot? Let us know in the comments.
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