JToddH, a seasoned aviation enthusiast and military veteran, brings a unique perspective to his review of the Tutima Flieger Automatic Slate Grey. His approach goes beyond a typical watch review, placing the timepiece in its authentic element by partnering with a vintage biplane pilot. This article explores how the Flieger embodies the spirit of classic aviation, making it a compelling read for collectors interested in tool watches with a rich heritage.
Part of the enjoyment of writing watch reviews is finding the perfect context in which to present a specific piece.
When I saw the recent announcement of Tutima GlashĂŒtteâs Flieger Slate Grey pilot watch, I was captivated by this watch from a brand I had not personally experienced.
As an aviation buff, skydiver and retired military officer, I couldnât wait to get my hands on the newest Flieger (German for âpilotâ). It did not disappoint!
This would be the first pilot watch Iâve reviewed as well as the first from a German brand.
As for context, I reached out to Pilot Bill Chouinard of Wild Blue Adventure Company in Fayetteville, West Virginia, USA. Bill is the proud owner of a 1940 Stearman biplane and was excited to try on the Flieger Slate Grey and put it through its paces.
Much like the Stearman, the Fleiger embodies a timeless, classic design. Its visual appeal, however, lies in a bold simplicity indicative of German design. Think Bauhaus.
The crisp lines and well-defined details of the Flieger strike a delicate balance between form and function. There are no unnecessary elements to distract from the utilitarian nature of this piece.
As a pilot watch, it has one purpose, and that is to deliver information without flash or flare. Itâs a quintessential tool watch whose design has evolved from the early trench watches of World War I.
In the dark or sometimes murky conditions of an open cockpit, the large, luminous triangle at the 12 oâclock position, quickly orients the pilot to the dial. This feature is traditional amongst pilot watches.
The razor-sharp edges of the losangé hands clearly distinguish the hours and minutes as they float between the bold baton markers.
Dispensing with ornate numerals common on many trench watches, this pilot watch relies on crisp, sans serif numerals to present the time.
Its most elegant feature, however, is a dĂ©gradĂ© dial that softy transitions from slate grey in the center to black around its periphery, reinforcing a strong contrast between the dial, its numerals and markers. Simple, sexyâŠand practical.
The Flieger is powered by Tutimaâs self-winding, 25-jewel, Calibre 330, based on the ETA 2836 beating at 28,800 vph with a 38-hour power reserve. An exhibition case back displays the tiny engine with minimal embellishment, save the brandâs 18 karat gold logo, set into the rotor.
The flowing curves of the case taper into a vintage-looking leather strap that compliments the slate grey dial. At 41mm, the relatively thin bezel allows more room for a spacious face, perfect for a cramped cockpit or simply comfortable wear.
The result is watch that appears impressively larger than it feels.
The verdict?
For someone used to larger chronographs and/or dive watches, the Tutima Flieger Slate Grey is a refreshing departure. This watch is deliberately simple and delightfully precise in its execution. Colorfully monochromatic, it has a powerful yet sophisticated wrist presence that speaks modern and vintage in the same breath.
As for performance? With my feet planted firmly on terra firma, I watched as Bill took to the sky in his Stearman wearing the Tutima. Witnessing him perform aerobatics in his iconic plane, I couldnât help but feel that the Flieger was right at home, where it belongs, piercing the skies in a series of loops, barrel rolls and hammerheads.
In years of reviewing timepieces, itâs the first time I was jealous of the watch!
The Flieger Automatic Slate Grey on a leather strap (as reviewed) retails for $1,650 USD or $1,990 USD on a steel bracelet.
