Pilot Watches
C-03 HORIZON
C-03 39 MM
DESIGNED FOR FLIGHT
For more than 10 years, Akrone has been developing watchmaking projects in close collaboration with military and civilian pilots.
Our work with ALAT — French Army Light Aviation — as well as with pilots from Air France, Transavia and Air Corsica, has given us first-hand insight into specific operational requirements: instant legibility, minimal weight on the wrist, consistent mechanical performance and straightforward operation.
The C-03 was born from this experience.
A collection designed to retain the functional character of an instrument watch, while remaining comfortable and effortless to wear every day.
FROM FLIGHT INSTRUMENT TO WRISTWATCH
At AKRONE, the number 03 identifies our aviation collection.
Over the years, we have developed a range of projects with pilots and aviation units, including ALAT — French Army Light Aviation, with whom we have developed several watches.
This ongoing dialogue has gradually shaped the identity of the C-03.
In a cockpit, information needs to be understood at a glance. The hierarchy of information on the dial, the size of the numerals, the contrast of the hands and low-light legibility are therefore not simply aesthetic choices.
They serve a functional purpose first and foremost.
The same principle applies to weight, ergonomics and the movement. Each generation of the C-03 is developed around operational needs identified in the field and then translated into specific design choices.
We do not simply borrow from the codes of aviation. We design from the realities of flight.
PRECISION & RELIABILITY
MECHANICAL MOVEMENTChoosing the calibre is only the first step. How it is protected, regulated and integrated into the watch matters just as much.
Depending on the version, the C-03 combines shock-protection systems built into the movement with specific movement-retaining solutions designed to secure and protect the movement within the case.
In Nantes, these movements are then manually regulated and individually tested, including in multiple positions, before the watch leaves the workshop.
DIN 8330, the standard for pilot watches, also serves as a technical reference for certain aspects of development, including legibility, vibration resistance and anti-magnetic properties.
With each new generation, we continue to refine the C-03 around the same principle: adapting the movement to the conditions in which the watch will be used.
LEGIBILITY ABOVE ALL
On the C-03, the dial must communicate information before it evokes aviation.
Large numerals, high-contrast hands, a clear hierarchy of information and low-light legibility are all developed with this objective in mind.
The sapphire crystal with multi-layer anti-reflective coating helps minimise reflections, while high-performance Super-LumiNova® keeps essential indications visible as light levels fall.
Depending on the version, titanium and forged carbon also contribute to reducing weight while enhancing comfort and durability.
But the C-03 is about more than its materials.
Case dimensions, dial opening, hand design, information layout and balance on the wrist are all developed together.
Function shapes legibility. Legibility defines the identity of the C-03.
FROM FLIGHT EXPERIENCE TO REFINEMENT
Feedback from pilots only matters if it can be translated into tangible improvements.
That is the role of our Nantes workshop.
Legibility, ergonomics, weight, materials, functions and movement performance: the lessons learned through our aviation projects directly inform the development of each new generation of the C-03.
In Nantes, we develop the watches, produce their technical drawings and define their specifications. The components are then manufactured by specialised partners before being sent to our workshop.
Each C-03 is individually assembled, regulated and inspected in Nantes.
Our work continues after delivery: servicing and after-sales support are also handled in Nantes.
From pilot feedback to the development of each new generation, and throughout the life of the watch, our Nantes workshop is where real-world aviation experience is translated into every C-03 we deliver.
