Gallet Flying Officer, c. 1980s

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

If you've never heard of Gallet, pay attention: One of the oldest manufactures in Switzerland, Gallet has been around since 1466, and has a colorful and diverse history of watchmaking tradition. From one-off handmade pocket watches for kings to some of the first mass-produced wristwatches in history, there is little road in the timekeeping industry on which Gallet hasn't tread in their 500+ year history. Gallet timepieces have been worn by individuals from every walk of life, including presidents, racing drivers, soldiers, and pilots. From the dawn of the 20th century onward, Gallet has been manufacturing high-grade chronographs for sports timing and aviation usage. The brand has an outstanding portfolio of innovations and world firsts, including the first wrist-worn chronograph, the first waterproof chronograph, the first regatta timer, the first chronograph with GMT hand, and the first chronograph with built-in worldtimer…just to name a few. One of the more well known Gallet designs is that of the Flying Officer, an aeronautical chronograph with a 12-hour bezel and city ring that allowed pilots to track multiple time zones. Launched in 1939 at the outbreak of the Second World War, the Flying Officer was famously worn by President Harry Truman during his time in office. This particular Flying Officer dates to circa the 1980s and features a 38mm stainless steel case with a bronze bidirectional 12-hour bezel, a matching unsigned bronze crown, a matte black Tritium dial with silver sub-registers and a white minute track, a world time chapter ring, and a matching alpha hands. In strong condition throughout, it’s perfect for the aeronautical enthusiast or the modern traveler. Check it out today!