For such a specific classification, the term “pilot’s watch” cuts a surprisingly wide swathe in terms of wrist-bound sub-genres. You’ll find classic chronographs, slide-rule bezel fake watches online, Flieger styles, and even timezone-hopping GMTs under the broader “pilot’s watch” umbrella, so you’re not short of options when it comes to aviation-style timepieces. Here, in ascending order of price, are five of my favourite contemporary pilot’s replica watches for men that soar above the ordinary.
Fake Breitling AVI Ref. 765 1964 Re-Edition
The perfect fake Breitling renaissance that began in 2017 continues, with the continued release of reverent Re-Editions under the watchful eye of CEO Georges Kern and Breitling consultant and super-collector Fred Mandelbaum. This piece is an especially attractive one. Although the esteemed luxury replica Breitling Navitimer is Breitling’s signature pilot’s watch, the 765 AVI “Co-Pilot” is a gorgeously compelling reboot.
The best 1:1 replica Breitling AVI was first released in 1953, and this new limited model recreates the 1964 version with its reverse panda dial and black 12-hour bezel, accented with that distinctive red triangle. Period-correct details include a 41mm stainless-steel case, aged-lume pencil hands and baton markers, and a Hesalite crystal, but modern improvements are employed as well. Those include the manuallyvwound in-house Caliber B09, the very same COSC-certified movement as the one found in the stunning, sold-out aaa quality fake Breitling Navitimer 806 1959 Re-Edition, as well as a DLC finish on the bezel for added durability. The AVI is a note-perfect throwback to a time when air travel was a far more refined experience. US$9,050
Replica IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Edition “Mr. Porter”
Swiss made replica IWC is the big Kahuna when it comes to big, modern pilot’s watches, and although they certainly have larger and more complicated choices, this 43mm limited-to-500 special edition just hits the bullseye for me. The high quality copy IWC Big Pilot’s Watch is available in a wide array of versions, including precious metal and perpetual calendar models, but the bronze Edition “Mr. Porter” variant from the London-based men’s style powerhouse nails the tool watch vibe of a Flieger’s military roots.
The Swiss movement copy IWC‘s big Arabic numerals, sword handset, and iconic faceted conical crown are all present, and all those softly glowing bronze-toned elements coordinate perfectly with the bronze case and understated black dial. Trust me when I say this is gonna age so, so well. Despite the tastefully subdued appearance of its material makeup, it’s still plenty luxe, with a decorated in-house Calibre 82100 movement, antimagnetic soft-iron inner case, convex sapphire crystal, and black Alcantara EasX-CHANGE strap. The whole effect is less about flash, and more about walking that stealth wealth tightrope. US$10,900