Collecting Pilot Watches

[mykita]

I love watches but I have got to a point where I am seeing the value of a focused and specialized collection. So I am now thinking of collecting pilot watches starting with a IWC Mark XI. I love them pilots because it not only is a true tool watch but also has a timeless design. Besides the internet, forums and ebay, how can I start in KL? Any thoughts fellow-MWFers?

[Enkidu]

You seem to have most of the grounds covered already.

THe only other places I can think of are:

(a) Sungei Besi TUDM airport - maybe you can convince a few of the pilots there to sel you their watches;

(b) Subang airport - maybe one of those firefly pilots will also sell you their watches;

(c) LCCT - plenty of pilots there, but the budget conscious sort;

(d) KLIA - Only 2 watch shops as far as I remember, you may want to check if they have pilot watches, otherwise, just follow the crew line and bug some of the pilots to sell you their watches.

[ck77]

 

By the way, Mark XI is a cool watch, hope you can find a good one.
You may also try your luck in preowned shops, some of the shops are in the following link.
http://www.malaysiawatchforum.com/index.php/topic,3738.0.html

[ck77]

Got a chance to molest some classic during IWC pilot watch launch this year.

[Watchnewby]

Wow, ck77. You sure get to get "close and personal" with all those nice IWC watches.

[Watchnewby]

I love watches but I have got to a point where I am seeing the value of a focused and specialized collection. So I am now thinking of collecting pilot watches starting with a IWC Mark XI. I love them pilots because it not only is a true tool watch but also has a timeless design. Besides the internet, forums and ebay, how can I start in KL? Any thoughts fellow-MWFers?

There are many type of brand for pilot watches - IWC, stowa, breitling, b&r etc just to name a few. I am sure there are shops in KL shopping mall for you to hunt for them beside the usual internet connection.

[besview]

Fortis makes some nice pilot watches.I cannot remember which model bit it looks very similar to my IWC 371704 at a fraction of the cost no doubt

[TheHobbit]

You may want to check out some of the online military forums. They may be able to help in your quest for the vintage iwc pilot. All the best with the hunt.

[swleong]

believed that many brands also make pilot style watches, but started with the 'original' few such as IWC, Laco, Stowa and Wempe and even Lange & $öhne would be good...

[ck77]

You might also want to read some histroy on pilot watch,
http://www.calibremagazine.com/node/305

[hildagarde]

Steinhart makes some decent pilot watches too. U check them out especially their black PVC chrono pilot. Forgot the exact name

[mykita]

Thanks everyone! Will keep you all posted on the developments.

CK: Awesome pictures. I would have molested the watches too especially the B-uhr. Is that a real B-uhr? How is the case like, bead blasted? Weight?

TheHobbit: Have been lurking on the other MWF but I wanted a local seller for safety reasons. I want to know the seller personally although I am afraid online seems to be the best route.

[TheHobbit]

Thanks everyone! Will keep you all posted on the developments.

CK: Awesome pictures. I would have molested the watches too especially the B-uhr. Is that a real B-uhr? How is the case like, bead blasted? Weight?

TheHobbit: Have been lurking on the other MWF but I wanted a local seller for safety reasons. I want to know the seller personally although I am afraid online seems to be the best route.

All the best with your hunt. When you aquire the piece, please do share it with us.

[MerzT]

I think IWC big pilot and 3717 are worth collecting.. Giving it's evergreen design and u can play around with strap colour and materials ie. Rubber , canvas , leather etc

And pre own prices are quite stable too if u get the watch now.

[ck77]

CK: Awesome pictures. I would have molested the watches too especially the B-uhr. Is that a real B-uhr? How is the case like, bead blasted? Weight?

Yes, original IWC b-Uhr 55mm and it's heavy.