The new Blancpain Air Command is based on a historic timepiece that was only produced very limitedly in the 1950s. As a result, these originals always fetch large sums at auction. Now the descendant of the Blancpain Pilot’s Watch appears in a titanium or red gold case. The watch also features a chronograph with flyback function and an additional countdown bezel.
The Blancpain Air Command comes in a case made of high-quality grade 23 titanium. Blancpain also presents a version with a red gold case. Either way, the watch measures 42.5 mm in diameter with a height of 13.77 mm. Satin and polished surfaces alternate here. The pushers and crown are on the right-hand side. The two-way rotating bezel has a ceramic insert with a graduation. This allows a countdown measurement to be taken. On the back, the sapphire crystal case back allows a view of the mechanics. Finally, the watch offers water resistance to 3 bar or 30 metres.
The deep blue dial is decorated with a sunburst finish and is surrounded by a tachymeter scale. It also bears large luminescent numerals and azure counters designed to enhance contrast. At 3 o’clock is a 30-minute counter, which also has elongated markers for the 3-minute increments. Opposite, the totaliser counts to 12-hours. The Blancpain Air Command, however, does not offer a seconds display. Nevertheless, a classic box sapphire crystal protects the front and is reminiscent of days gone by.
Inside the Air Command is the F388B calibre. It is based on the Blancpain F385 and consists of 293 parts and 35 jewels. It also offers automatic winding with a maximum power autonomy of 50 hours. A free-sprung silicon spring, which operates at a high frequency of 5 hertz, sets the pace here. The chronograph operates by column wheel and integrates a vertical clutch. In addition, it offers a flyback function with which a running time measurement can be restarted at the touch of a single button. Last but not least, Blancpain uses an openworked rotor that is colour-coordinated with the case.
Both versions appear on the same blue leather strap with white stitching. The Blancpain Air Command Flyback Chronograph is available now. The price for the model with a titanium case is 17,120 euros. For the gold version, on the other hand, 27,020 euros are due.
