Watches are really must-have instruments for pilots, not only for time-keeping but also for a host of other functions. Listed here is a few watches, we would recommend for pilots. Features are more or less similar or same but these watches fall under different categories and price tags.
What should you expect in a watch? Time, date, calendar, stop watch? We are not discussing about regular timekeeping features. Pilots need something more, including..
- Thermometer (ambient temperature)
- Heart rate monitor (Make sure it is perfect)
- GPS (you should not get LOST)
- Barometer (at least to cross-check the cabin pressurisation)
- Altimeter
- Compass
- Sun set, rise timings
- Real weather proof (to work in the roughest and most hostile environments)
- Self powered (preferably)
(the list below may contain affiliate links with offers. Some offers may not be unavailable always)
1. Casio Protrek PRG 240 T (16,500 Rs/ $220 USD)
This watch has compass, altimeter, barometer and thermometer, apart from regular time-keeping functions. It has solar panel with rechargeable battery to power the watch for a minimum of 2 years without sunlight. It can record altimeter changes in a graph. Strap material is titanium, to prevent corrosion and to keep it light weight and strong.
2. Garmin forerunner 15 (GPS, speed, calories) 10,000 Rs/ $ 180 USD
Garmin Forerunner 15 has got gps, calorie tracking, speed tracking etc. It is one among the cheapest too.
3. Garmin Vivoactive HR (GPS & fitness tracking) (17,000 Rs / $230 USD)
This watch has got features for GPS tracking and activity tracking. Fitness tracking features include heart rate monitoring, activity monitoring etc.
4. Suunto Core Unisex- SS016636000 (GPS, Alti, Baro, Compass) 16,000 Rs/ $250.
This is a unisex watch with all necessary features mentioned above, for pilots.
5. Garmin Epix Worldwide (124,000 Rs/ $1800 USD)
This is one among the top rated (costly too, of course), watches for pilots with included maps and perfect GPS reception with Glonass. Build quality is also top notch suiting an aviator.
6. Suunto SS020344000 (15,000 Rs/ $250)
Just another watch from Suunto, loaded with good hardware and features like altimeter, barometer, compass etc.
7. Suunto Traverse Alpha Stealth (81,000 Rs/ $1200)
Another feature rich watch from Suunto, Stealth is on the costly side of the coin. But it is worth every penny with its rugged design and sharp GPS and tracking features.
8. Suunto SS021215000 (25000 Rs / $350)
The best in class for value for money, rugged build quality and features. This watch has got compass, thermometer, altimeter, barometer, sunset-sunrise timings, storm warning, GPS, depth meter for snorkeling etc. as features. Priced reasonably at 25000 Rs/ $350. Unisex design too, for both men and women.