Copycat derivative dive and pilot watches are everywhere. It’s also not exactly a breeze to design modern interpretations of either type without looking weird and/or polarizing. UK-based Aera has done a bang-up job of creating its own fresh versions of both of them in the D-1 Diver and the P-1 Pilot. Both timepieces are impeccably crafted with 904L stainless steel (the same kind used for the Rolex Submariner), which is tougher and more scratch-resistant than the typical 316L. The D1 has a 44mm case, while the P-1 is a tad smaller at 43mm. Both watches also include specially-crafted domed sapphire glass, hand-filled Super LumiNova, and a Swiss Sellita SW200-1 automatic movement. We love the unique interpretations of hands, markers, and numerals, while remaining highly legible and attractive. Each model is limited to 300 units, and our guess is that they’ll sell out in a flash.
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