Introducing the Pilot 42 KS, a New Hand-Wound Pilot Watch from Archimede

Although not one of the five original brands that manufactured WWII Fliegers, German brand Archimede has taken up a strong position today as a value-driven producer of this classic design. Over the years, the firm has offered pilot watches in a variety of case materials and sizes, movements, and dials that build on the historical iconic. Archimede has recently added a new series to the Pilot collection—the Pilot 42 KS.

First, some specs. As the name implies, the Pilot 42 KS (“kleine sekunde,” or small seconds) is a 42mm diameter pilot watch with a sub-seconds register at six o’clock. It’s a hand-cranker powered by the ever-reliable Unitas/ETA 6498, a large pocket watch caliber dating back to the 1950s. The Ickler-made case measures 9.9mm thick with a lug-to-lug height of 51mm, so it’s wearable on a range of wrists and a good amount smaller than the long-available 45mm version. At three is a prominent diamond crown signed with the Archimede “A,” and the watch is water resistant to 5 ATM. The dial is appropriately simple and easy to read, with the sub-dial at six balancing the logo below 12. Finally, sitting atop the dial is a domed sapphire crystal with internal AR, adding to the overall legibility of the watch.

Archimede is offering two basic variations of the new Pilot 42 KS:

Archimede also offers several ways to customize your watch for a small surcharge, and options include a solid case back, a custom engraving, and a variety of different strap options that include leather and a steel milanese bracelet.

For more information or to purchase, visit Archimede.