Breitling Navitimer vs. IWC Big Pilot: The Best Pilot’s Watch for Aviation Enthusiasts
When it comes to aviation-inspired watches, two of the most iconic timepieces are the Breitling Navitimer and the IWC Big Pilot. These watches are more than just accessories; they are tools of precision, steeped in history, and symbols of aeronautical achievement. For aviation enthusiasts and watch collectors alike, choosing between the Breitling Navitimer and the IWC Big Pilot can be a tough decision.
In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into both of these legendary pilot’s watches, comparing their design, functionality, history, and value. Whether you're a professional pilot, a watch enthusiast, or someone who appreciates finely crafted timepieces, this comparison will help you understand which of these two aviation icons is the right fit for your wrist.
1. A Brief History of Two Aviation Icons
Breitling Navitimer
The Breitling Navitimer is one of the most legendary pilot’s watches ever made, with a history dating back to 1952. The Navitimer was designed specifically for pilots and aviation professionals, featuring a slide rule bezel that allowed for complex calculations related to flight. Pilots could use the Navitimer to calculate fuel consumption, flight times, distance, and much more. This made the Navitimer more than just a watch—it was a tool for navigating the skies.
Over the decades, the Navitimer has evolved, but its core design has remained largely unchanged. The large dial, prominent slide rule, and highly legible markers have all become defining characteristics of the Navitimer. Today, the Navitimer is an icon of aviation, favored not only by pilots but also by watch collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its rich history and technical capabilities.
IWC Big Pilot
The IWC Big Pilot has its roots in the 1930s and 1940s, during the era of military aviation. The original Big Pilot watches were used by the German Air Force and were known for their large, highly legible dials, oversized crowns (so pilots could adjust them with gloves on), and robust construction. These watches were designed to be precise and reliable instruments for pilots during missions.
In 2002, IWC revived the Big Pilot in its modern form, combining its historical aviation roots with contemporary watchmaking technology. The Big Pilot is famous for its oversized 46mm case, clean and legible dial, and powerful automatic movement. IWC’s Big Pilot has become one of the most recognizable aviation watches on the market, appreciated for its bold design and precision engineering.
2. Design and Aesthetics
Breitling Navitimer
The design of the Breitling Navitimer is unmistakable, thanks to its complex dial and slide rule bezel. The Navitimer is a busy-looking watch, but that’s part of its charm. The dial features multiple subdials (depending on the model) for chronograph functions, a tachymeter scale, and the slide rule, all of which are geared toward aviation calculations. Despite its busy appearance, the Navitimer is surprisingly easy to read, with large luminescent hands and markers that ensure legibility in various lighting conditions.
The Navitimer’s aesthetic leans heavily into its utilitarian roots, making it a favorite among those who appreciate tool watches with real-world functionality. The watch typically comes in sizes ranging from 41mm to 46mm, ensuring there’s a Navitimer to suit various wrist sizes and style preferences.
IWC Big Pilot
The IWC Big Pilot is known for its minimalist design compared to the Navitimer. Its clean, easy-to-read dial features large Arabic numerals, bold sword hands, and a prominent triangle at 12 o’clock, all of which are designed for optimal legibility. The oversized crown, a hallmark of the Big Pilot, adds to the rugged, military-inspired aesthetic.
The Big Pilot’s 46mm case is undoubtedly large, but it is balanced well by the simplicity of the dial. There’s no slide rule or chronograph here, just a focus on time, date, and power reserve indicators. The Big Pilot’s design is clean and bold, making it a statement piece that draws attention without being overly complicated. For those who appreciate a more refined, military-inspired aesthetic, the Big Pilot is a perfect choice.
3. Movement and Mechanics
Breitling Navitimer
The Breitling Navitimer is powered by the in-house Caliber B01 automatic movement, which is one of Breitling’s most respected calibers. It features a 70-hour power reserve and is a COSC-certified chronometer, meaning it has passed rigorous tests for accuracy and reliability. The B01 movement also powers the chronograph functions, allowing the Navitimer to measure elapsed time with precision.
Breitling has ensured that the Navitimer’s movement is as robust as its design, making it a reliable tool for professional pilots and watch enthusiasts alike. The chronograph function and the slide rule bezel make the Navitimer a highly functional watch, offering more than just timekeeping.
IWC Big Pilot
The IWC Big Pilot is powered by the in-house Caliber 52110 automatic movement, which features an impressive 7-day power reserve (168 hours). This movement is known for its reliability and precision, and it uses IWC’s Pellaton winding system, which improves efficiency and durability. The long power reserve means the Big Pilot can run for an entire week without needing to be wound, making it a perfect watch for those who don’t want to worry about daily winding.
The Big Pilot’s movement is highly regarded in the watch world for its craftsmanship and precision. While it lacks a chronograph or slide rule, the long power reserve and simple functionality make it a highly practical and reliable pilot’s watch.
4. Functionality and Usability
Breitling Navitimer
The Navitimer’s functionality is its defining feature. The slide rule bezel is an aviation tool that allows pilots to perform important calculations related to fuel consumption, speed, distance, and more. While many of these calculations are now performed by digital instruments, the Navitimer’s slide rule remains a beloved feature for those who appreciate mechanical tools.
In addition to the slide rule, the Navitimer’s chronograph function makes it a versatile tool for timing events and measuring elapsed time. Whether you’re a pilot, an enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys the technical aspects of watches, the Navitimer offers a range of useful functions that go beyond basic timekeeping.
IWC Big Pilot
The IWC Big Pilot is designed with simplicity and usability in mind. It doesn’t feature a chronograph or slide rule, but that’s part of its appeal. The Big Pilot’s focus is on legibility and reliability, with a large dial that’s easy to read at a glance, even in low light conditions. The oversized crown is a functional feature that allows pilots to adjust the time while wearing gloves—an homage to its military roots.
The most impressive feature of the Big Pilot’s functionality is its 7-day power reserve, which is clearly indicated on the dial. This long power reserve makes the Big Pilot an extremely convenient watch for those who don’t want to worry about daily winding, and it emphasizes the watch’s practicality as a tool for professionals.
5. Price and Value
Breitling Navitimer
The Breitling Navitimer is priced in the range of $8,000 to $10,000, depending on the specific model and materials used. While this price is certainly in the luxury category, the Navitimer offers excellent value considering its in-house movement, chronograph functions, and rich history as one of the most iconic aviation watches. Additionally, the Navitimer’s high resale value makes it a solid investment for collectors who are looking for a watch that will retain its value over time.
IWC Big Pilot
The IWC Big Pilot is priced slightly higher, typically ranging from $12,000 to $15,000, depending on the model and materials. The Big Pilot’s higher price is justified by its exceptional movement, particularly the 7-day power reserve and the in-house Caliber 52110. The craftsmanship and heritage of the Big Pilot make it a valuable addition to any collection, and its status as a modern icon in the world of pilot watches ensures strong resale value.
6. Which Pilot's Watch Should You Choose?
Breitling Navitimer
The Breitling Navitimer is the ideal choice for those who want a pilot’s watch with true functionality. If you appreciate technical tools like the slide rule bezel and chronograph, the Navitimer will appeal to your sense of aviation history and mechanical ingenuity. It’s also a fantastic option for those who love a watch with a busy dial that tells a story of its practical uses. The Navitimer is more than just a watch—it’s a tool designed for aviation professionals, and its iconic design makes it a must-have for collectors.
IWC Big Pilot
The IWC Big Pilot, on the other hand, is for those who value simplicity, legibility, and bold design. If you’re looking for a watch that emphasizes practicality without sacrificing style, the Big Pilot is the perfect choice. Its 7-day power reserve and minimalist dial make it an incredibly functional watch for daily wear, while its oversized crown and bold case ensure it stands out in any collection. The Big Pilot is a statement piece, ideal for those who appreciate a refined, military-inspired aesthetic.
Conclusion
Both the Breitling Navitimer and the IWC Big Pilot are exceptional pilot’s watches, each with its own unique strengths and appeal. The Navitimer offers unmatched functionality with its slide rule bezel and chronograph, making it a favorite for those who love technical watches. The Big Pilot, with its clean design and long power reserve, is the perfect option for those who appreciate simplicity and boldness in a timepiece.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to what you value in a watch. Whether you prefer the complex, technical design of the Navitimer or the clean, bold look of the Big Pilot, both watches represent the pinnacle of aviation watchmaking and will make a fantastic addition to any collection.
