An elegant chronograph inspired by British military pilot watches from the ’70s.
Based in New York, Hemel is an independent watch brand that produces timeless watches inspired by vintage military timepieces. Their Airfoil design is no exception. Refined and modern, the watch pays homage to the British military pilot watches from the 1970s. The chronograph features two sub dials arranged symmetrically at the 3 and 6 o’clock marks. The stainless steel case measures 42mm in diameter and also boasts a polished finish. Double domed, the sapphire crystal on the front features an AR coating, while the exhibition caseback boasts engraved letters around the center. The watch also features a narrow rotating bezel made of ceramic and a signed crown with a push and pull design.
Inside the case, there’s a hand wound, mechanical caliber ST19 movement which the user can admire through the transparent back. Other features include Super-LumiNova finishes for more visibility in low-lighting conditions, water resistance up to 100 meters, and light brown leather straps that also have contrasting stitching. The Hemel Airfoil watch comes with three dial options: Standard Black, Navy Blue, and Full Lume Ivory. While the first two versions have monochrome dials with light tan hands, the latter boasts contrasting sub dials in black. All three watches cost $499 and you can find them now in the brand’s online store. Photographs© Hemel Watches.