Hanhart Pioneer Flieger One NightBlue Limited Edition

Hanhart have been killing it lately with their retro pilot’s chronographs like the 417 ES Panda. However, while their chronographs are nice, Hanhart’s latest limited edition release is a nice change of pace, taking things back to basics with a time only design. It’s called the Pioneer Flieger One NightBlue and it combines a dark blue dial with a black PVD case.

Interestingly, while the Pioneer Flieger One NightBlue isn’t itself a chronograph, it’s still based on the original 417 chrono that inspires many of the watchmaker’s modern pieces. What that means is the case has a 42mm diameter with a distinctive fluted bezel that has a red marker at 12 and a bi-directional rotation. For the limited edition, the stainless steel has a black PVD coating that gives it a darker aesthetic and improves the case’s scratch resistance and durability.

As for the dial, it’s a gorgeous shade of dark blue that reminds me of the night sky just after sunset. The attention to detail is really nice too from both a style and utility point of view. For example, the hour track slightly recessed to create a layered appearance and the minute and seconds hands bend down towards the dial at the end to prevent parallax errors. Interestingly, the regular Pioneer features a date window that has been omitted here, creating a clean dial that focusses on the essentials.

Housed inside the Pioneer Flieger One NightBlue is a movement we’re all thoroughly familiar with, the Sellita SW200. The 38-hour power reserve is definitely lacking in comparison to many other modern calibres but that’s somewhat made up for by its accessibility and ease of service since they’re so common.

The limited edition is presented on a dark blue strap with red stitching that matches the tone of the dial as well as the bright bezel accent. It’s made from ox leather with a suede finish, making it soft to the touch. I’ve already said it but the shade of blue is particularly nice.

Despite being limited to a pretty exclusive 150 pieces, the Hanhart Pioneer Flieger One NightBlue is priced at €1,290 (£1,140). For a pilot’s watch as sleek and refined as this, that feels like a no brainer.