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Aviation timepiece with oversized legible dials, luminous markers, and navigation tools like chronographs or slide rule bezels.

Pilot watches feature oversized dials (typically 40-46mm) with high-contrast Arabic numerals and luminous markers for maximum legibility in cockpits, onion-shaped crowns for gloved operation, and often include complications like chronographs, GMT, or slide-rule bezels for navigation calculations. They prioritize function and visibility.
Oversized "onion" crowns allow pilots to operate the watch while wearing thick flight gloves. The large, textured surface provides grip and leverage for winding and time-setting in challenging conditions. This design originated in early aviation when open cockpits and heavy gloves were standard.
No, modern pilots rely on digital instruments and GPS. However, pilot watches remain popular for their aviation heritage, robust design, and excellent legibility. They're appreciated by aviation enthusiasts and those who value tool-watch aesthetics and functionality, regardless of actual flying needs.

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