The History of and Differences Between a Type A and Type B Pilot Watch – Windup Watch Shop

The Type A, or Baumuster A if you like, is marked by its matte-black dial, punctuated with a thickminute track and Arabic numerals, and a triangle and two dots orienting it at 12:00. Lumedsword hands provide the time at a quick glance. It’s the most classic of the two variations andthe most versatile today. But by 1941, a new standard was introduced to further aid aviators.

The Type B configuration flipped the A’s emphasis on hours on its head and relegated them to asubsidiary ring around the center of the dial. This allowed for a large outer 0-60 scale to beadded to simplify accurate reading of the minutes. Of the two, the Type B has become the mosticonic configuration of the Teutonic legend.

During the war, these watches allowed German pilots and navigators to effectively track theircourses in the skies. Though seemingly destined for obscurity in the years following the war,Flieger watches have instead experienced a sort of perennial appeal to watch enthusiasts. Theirstark, legible designs and military background render them a popular choice, offering a uniquestyle amongst other vintage-inspired designs. Even though their use as bona fide tools hasdiminished over the following century, the Flieger still represents an iconic tool watch deservingof a place in any enthusiast’s collection.

While a relatively narrow subset of the broader pilot genre, Fliegers are an important milestonein the history of aviation watches. Their rugged minimalism, uber legibility (if you’ll pardon thepun), and toolish nature have cemented their reputation as iconic — and versatile — watchesthat still appeal to enthusiasts today. And if you’re looking to get into one, we hope this quickguide to Type A and Type B Fliegers helps as you make your way on your journey.

To see more of our favorite Flieger watches, head over to the Windup Watch Shop. As always,the Windup Watch Team is available via consultation to answer any questions you have. Inaddition, many of the products shown are eligible for free domestic shipping across the US.