The new Pioneer One Blue pilot watch from historic German brand Hanhart is like a showcase of current watch industry trends that work well: It’s vintage-inspired, drawing its design from the chronograph watches the brand produced for the German Luftwaffe (air force) in WW2. Next, as brands are offering more affordable, entry-level models, the Pioneer One is just that, forgoing the more expensive chronograph movement and remaining under $1,000. Finally, this newest iteration joins the growing ranks of popular watch models that now offer a blue-dial version.
All this makes for a handsome and highly wearable pilots watch. The brand offers fairly historically accurate editions of its chronograph watches, with familiar features like the hands and numerals, and of course the distinctive fluted bezel. The Hanhart Pioneer One retains all those characteristics but omits the chronograph pushers and sub-dials — and, naturally, the chronograph movement, with its functionality and associated price.
The Hanhart Pioneer One is powered by a time-and-date-only Swiss automatic SW 200 movement with a power reserve of 38 hours. The black date wheel, as opposed to disruptive white, will be an appreciated touch for many enthusiasts. Note that the bidirectional rotating bezel is marked with a red strip which can be used to mark a specific starting time — a throwback to the functionality of the original Hanhart chronographs of the 1940s. The Hanhart Pioneer One Blue measures 42mm wide by 12mm thick with a water-resistance of 100m and has a price in USD of around $995.
Gear Patrol also recommends:
Laco Augsburg Blau Stunde 42 Watch ($410)
Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Blue Watch ($1,600)
TAG Heuer Autavia Isograph ($3,600)
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