Timeless Timepieces: Flyback Chronograph Watches

Allow us to begin this week's blog post with a brief disclaimer. We think digital watches are just fine, really they are. Different strokes for different timepieces. But look at this one to the right and tell us that it is not one of the finest divers' watches you have ever seen. Go on, try.

There is something truly remarkable about the flyback chronograph watches from Blancpain. Although Breitling and Longines pioneered the flyback in the early 20th century (and we certainly would not want to take that away from them), for us, the Air Command watches are as good as they come.

The Air Command series of watches are meticulously crafted with the special F-185 caliber, the smallest self-winding chronograph movement in the world. The Fifty Fathoms GMT model you see here incorporates 308 total parts and components in its movement, making it the apex of both function and style.

As this is a true divers' watch, the back, crown, and pushpieces are all screw locked, with guaranteed water resistance up to nearly 1,000 feet. A staple of pilots of the 1930s, this watch is built for regular use and is sure to be a mainstay for another 80 years.