Ollech & Wajs Swiss Automatic B52 Pilot Watch #OW-M52B-AF

Ollech & Wajs Swiss Automatic B52 Pilot Watch #OW-M52B-AF

The dial of the new M-52B AF bears the unmistakable silhouette of the most iconic combat aircraft of all time, the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress. A stark symbol of the cold war conflict and, in engineering terms, a symbol of longevity and dependability. 2024 marks the 70th anniversary of the 1954 maiden flight of the first B-52 production model.

Three generations of US military aviators have flown the 750 planes, built between 1952 and 1962, 70 of which remain in service today.

When professionals place their trust in equipment, whether it’s a 220-tonne aircraft or a mechanical wristwatch, reliability is prized above all else. The M-52B AF, as all OW watches, is built around this prerequisite.

The new watch features a robust 39 mm M-type case and a PVD-coated chamfered-edge Tactical Pilot's bezel, modeled on the streamlined nose cone profile of the B-52.

Intermittent cream lume on the bezel, dial indexes and hands adds warmth to the overall monochromatic scheme. Vintage enthusiasts will appreciate the red numeral date wheel, in keeping with the original B-905. The engine of the M-52B AF is a customized, Swiss made, Soprod calibre P024, chosen for its robustness, reliability and serviceability. A gently domed, thickened sapphire crystal helps ensure an impressive 300 m water resistance, which has become a characteristic of all Ollech & Wajs modern pilot’s watches.

The M-52B AF is presented a military-grade black nylon RAF strap. A bespoke M-Heritage 20 mm medium gauge, stainless steel mesh bracelet with hand-brushed OW engraved thorn buckle can be ordered as an additional accessory for 126 CHF.

Though not quite as hard to come by as the vintage watch that inspired it, availability of the M-52B AF will be limited. There will be just 56 engraved crown numbered editions at launch. Thereafter, a limited production provision of non-numbered watches will be made available each year.