FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

GENERAL

What are pilot watches?

Designed with essential features needed for flying aircrafts, every pilot watch made by AVIATOR offers high legibility from dusk ‘til dawn. An oversized crown, sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating, 100 M water-resistance, and shock-resistant durability are other features that set an AVIATOR pilot watch apart from any other.

Why do pilot watches have a triangle?

The triangle positioned at 12 o'clock is the distinctive mark of an pilot’s watch. Historically, the luminescent equilateral upright triangle with two dots on either side allowed early pilots to read the time immediately in the middle of intricate flight sequences.

What is a vintage watch?

Although there is no strict standard, vintage watches are at least 30 to 50 years old and a day under 100. Inspired by the history of aviation, AVIATOR designs modern watches with a distinctively vintage style that promises timeless appeal

What is a classic watch?

Each AVIATOR watch aspires to achieve a classic elegance and stand the test of time, continually esteemed as outstanding and the premium choice for a watch lover.

What is a sports watch?

A sports watch is built to withstand the rigors of an active lifestyle with more durable water-resistant, shockproof, and scratch-free features. All AVIATOR watches are made to endure extreme conditions of real test pilots, and are elegantly styled to match any occasion

Will watches go out style?

A classic watch will never go out of style because it has been crafted with artisanal expertise for many centuries. With tradition by our side and 200-years of watchmaking craftsmanship, AVIATOR will continue to be inspired by aviation’s history and future.

Where are AVIATOR watches made?

Each watch is made and assembled in Switzerland. Inheriting more than 200 years of craftsmanship experience, AVIATOR defines precision with Swiss made pilot watches that dare to soar to new boundaries with sleek styling and superb innovation.

FUNCTIONING OF THE WATCH

What is an automatic watch?

An automatic watch, or self-winding watch, is powered from the natural energy produced by the wearer as they move. The automatic movement in AVIATOR watches are designed with a rotor that rotates and winds the wheels and cogs, making manual winding unnecessary.

What is a Quartz watch?

More accurate than mechanical clocks, the Quartz clock uses an electronic oscillator that is regulated by an actual quartz crystal to keep time. AVIATOR Quartz watches work the same. An electric current from the battery runs through the Quartz, creating vibrations that then power the movement to keep time.

How precise are automatic watches?

Generally, the accuracy of automatic watches is +/-25 seconds per day. Translated: it has a 0.03% accuracy. However, the accuracy of a watch varies, depending on the wearer’s level of movement and activity. Over time, all watches eventually need service. A qualified AVIATOR watchmaker can adjust the precision of your watch.

How precise are Quartz watches?

Quartz watches are designed for accuracy. As an effect of natural temperature shifts, AVIATOR Quartz watches are highly reliable and have a tolerance of +-15 seconds a month.

How long does an automatic watch last?

Most automatic watches can run 38 hours or more. Since self-winding movement is linked to activity levels, 10-12 hours of wear should generate a 20-hour power reserve. If the watch hasn’t been worn for days, we recommend winding your AVIATOR watch manually, clockwise at the crown, for 20 rotations.

How long should the battery in a watch last?

When purchasing a new AVIATOR watch, the battery will last at least 2 years. Certain watches may have a power reserve up to 5 years. Please see the specifications for your AVIATOR watch model.

What is a chronograph watch?

A chronograph is simply a watch with a stopwatch function built into the movement, and can be manual, self-winding or quartz-powered. With an AVIATOR Chronograph watch, precision plays a key role in measuring elapsed time-–down to the very second.

What is a GMT watch?

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is the average solar time according to the Royal Observatory in Greenwich, London. A GMT watch has a 24-hour format hand that indicates a second time zone. This feature helps pilots and jet setters keep precise track of time no matter where they’re traveling.

How does the tachymeter work on a watch?

Working off the physics of velocity and theories of productivity, the tachymeter is on the bezel, and measures speed based on time traveled over a fixed distance. Your AVIATOR watch can also determine the average speed or hourly productivity rate in a time range of up one-minute (30 seconds).

How does the telemeter work on a watch?

The telemeter chronograph measures the speed of sound by timing the distance to an event that’s both seen and heard. Your AVIATOR watch can measure how far away a lightning bolt is or even the distance of a torpedo strike. To initiate this feature, start the telemeter chronograph when an event is seen, stop timing when the event is heard. The chronograph central second hand will point to the distance of the event.

MAINTENANCE OF THE WATCH

Where can I find a User Guide for my watch?

You’ll receive a printed booklet of the user guide with the purchase of an AVIATOR pilot’s watch. Or you may download a PDF of the User Guide

Can watches be repaired?

Any watch can be repaired, AVIATOR is dedicated to offering original replacements parts and repair from a certified technician for even discontinued watch models. If it cannot be repaired, we may offer a replacement of equal value or similar characteristics.

Can you swim with a water resistant watch?

All AVIATOR watches are water resistant to a minimum of 100 meters so you can safely go swimming, snorkeling, and perform other water sports with the exception of scuba diving. For shallow dives, you’ll need a watch with a 200-meter water resistance rating.

Do AVIATOR watches come with a warranty?

All AVIATOR watch purchases come with a 24-month warranty. For warranty details, please check here.

What does my watch warranty cover?

The international AVIATOR warranty covers material and manufacturing defects existing at the time of purchasing your watch. Your warranty covers major components, including the watch movements, both hands, and the dial.

What is not covered under my watch’s warranty?

The life of the battery, repairs from non-authorized dealers, normal wear and tear from regular use, damage caused from negligence, accidents or lack of care, as well as routine maintenance and cleaning are not covered. Please refer to our warranty terms here.

How often does my watch need to be serviced?

It is recommended that watches be serviced at least every 5 to 7 years. Depending on the level of use and environment in which the watch is worn, AVIATOR also recommends you have the water resistance checked annually and a complete service performed every 5 years.

Where can I repair my watch?

An authorized AVIATOR service center or official retailer will be more than happy to assist you with your watch. A list of service centers around the world can be found here..

MATERIALS

What is the meaning of 316L stainless steel?

316L grade stainless steel, sometimes known as A4 or marine grade stainless steel, is like a bulletproof vest protecting the inner workings of your AVIATOR watch. Its low carbon content makes it heat-resistant through 870ºC, and 316L stainless steel is extremely resistant to high-corrosion use caused from saltwater or acidic fluids.

What does PVD mean?

Physical Vapor Deposition, or PVD, utilizes a titanium nitride that provides an extremely durable coating and a brilliant, decorative finish. It is more resistant to corrosion from sweat and regular wear than gold plating. This process enables AVIATOR watches to be more rugged and to withstand oxidation over time.

What is sapphire crystal on a watch?

Sapphire glass isn’t actually glass. It’s a synthetic sapphire crystal made in very high temperatures, made of crystalline aluminum oxides that are cut with diamond saws, grinded and polished to the finished “glass” product. As hard as a genuine gem, measuring at a 9 on the Mohs scale, yet without the blue tone, sapphire crystal makes AVIATOR Watches virtually scratch-proof.

What is a luminous watch?

Since the 1910s, luminous watch hands with their glow-in-the-dark legibility to absorb and re-emit light. AVIATOR uses premium Super-LumiNova pigment that receives its luminosity from daylight or any artificial source of light. Making the Indexes readable even in the dark. Light intensity and duration vary based on watch models.

What kind of materials are AVIATOR watch straps made of?

In keeping the spirit of aviation heritage in each collection, AVIATOR uses a variety of luxuriously premium materials. Your AVIATOR watch strap may be made of leather, rubber, cloth, or metal, sometimes in combination.

How long do leather watch bands last?

The average lifespan of a leather watch strap is 18 months. AVIATOR recommends replacing the strap regularly as daily wear may reduce it to 6 to 12 months. However, you may extend the life of your genuine leather watch strap significantly by routinely washing with cold water and drying completely.

How long do rubber watch straps last?

Although rugged, rubber watch straps don’t have as long of a lifespan as other types of straps. Generally, rubber watch straps need replacing every 18 months to two years. AVIATOR suggests to replace the rubber strap on your watch every 12 to 24 months.

What is a “mesh” watch strap?

A mesh watch strap is made from metal wires, usually stainless steel for its rust-resistance and durability. Invented and named after the Italian town of Milan, mesh bands are exceptionally smooth on the wrist and may range from rugged to elegantly sleek in look and feel.

How long do Milanese Mesh watch straps last?

In terms of durability, the Milanese Mesh watch strap on your AVIATOR is made to withstand a rugged lifestyle, and can be enjoyed for many generations to come with proper annual maintenance.

ONLINE SHOP

What forms of payment does AVIATOR accept?

Currently, AVIATOR accepts major credit cards like VISA and MasterCard, as well as PayPal at checkout. Payments via bank transfer can also be made.

When will my credit card be charged?

Upon checkout, your credit or debit card will be charged at the time of your order request.

Will I be charged tax or extra fees?

Your final purchase of an AVIATOR watch at checkout will include all taxes and duties so you won’t need to pay additional fees upon receiving your order. This applies to all countries AVIATOR is currently shipping to.

Can I claim my tax back if I am exempt from paying?

Sorry, tax-free shopping on purchases made on www.aviatorwatch.swiss is not offered.

What are your shipping fees?

All orders made on www.aviatorwatch.swiss will include FREE expedited shipping via FedEx.

How do I return my AVIATOR watch?

Are you sure there’s nothing else we can do to resolve the problem? If not, and provided that a receipt, original packaging and documentation accompany your watch, you may receive a full refund or exchange, up to 60 days from the purchase date. Partial refunds will be considered based on the condition of the watch and missing documentation.

What is a partial refund?

After evaluating the condition of your watch, AVIATOR will consider a partial refund. Any missing documentation or damaged original packaging will also be considered. Proof of sale is required and return must be completed within 60 days of purchase.

How do I return my AVIATOR watch?

Once the AVIATOR Quality Assurance acknowledges the receipt of your return, funds will be refunded to your original payment method within approximately 10 business days.

How long does my online order take to process before delivery?

First off, thank you for choosing an AVIATOR watch. It normally takes up to 24-hours to process and ship your order once payment is verified. Delivery time varies from country to country, but on average you may expect delivery to be between 2 to 4 days.

How do I cancel my online order?

Between the time you press the pay securely now button and order button, there’s a window of opportunity to cancel your order. Please email us at aviator@aviatorwatch.swiss as soon as possible to cancel your order before it ships from our warehouse