We wrote about initial release of the Archimede Pilot GMT 42 back in June 2017. However we were recently able to have a brief proper hands-on experience with the watch during Wind Up SF 2019.
At 42mm in diameter, 51mm lug to lug, and 10.2mm thick, we were a bit unsure of how the actual watch would feel on the wrist. Based on the specifications of the Archimede Pilot GMT 42, I can understand how someone may think it would wear a bit on the larger side. Allow me to assuage your uncertainties.
Before seeing the watch in person Mike and I expressed trepidation in regard to the color choices. While traditional Fliegers are reserved with their color choices, the Archimede Pilot GMT 42 seems to be having a bit more fun with its presentation. The hour and minute hands are heat-treated blue steel while the GMT hand is coated in red pigment. The contrast between red and blue allows the GMT hand to have an appropriate amount of “pop” to it.
However one of the more subtle but wonderful features is the color synergy between the thermal blue hands and the blue stitching on the strap. While it doesn’t look like the Archimede site shows the watch with this blue stitch strap, it’s something I would certainly pair the watch with given the option – it’s a perfect match.
Arhchimede Pilot GMT 42 Specifications:
- 42mm in diameter | 51mm lug to lug | 10.2mm thick
- Case made by ICKLER in Pforzheim
- Sapphire crystal on front | Mineral Crystal on exhibition case back
- ETA 2893-2 Elaborè
- Available with black dial paired with a black, dark brown, or light brown leather strap | or a Milanaise mesh bracelet or stainless steel bracelet
Check out more info on Archimede’s site and for more history and general info, check out our Archimede Watches resource page!
Co-Founder and Senior Editor
Kaz has been collecting watches since 2015, but he’s been fascinated by product design, the Collector’s psychology, and brand marketing his whole life. While sharing the same strong fondness for all things horologically-affordable as Mike (his TBWS partner in crime), Kaz’s collection niche is also focused on vintage Soviet watches as well as watches that feature a unique, but well-designed quirk or visual hook.
€1,240.00 (inkl. MwSt.) on a leather strap, if you don’t feel like clicking
I have the older non-GMT with blue sunburst dial and steel bracelet. That bracelet is super comfortable and I like its heft. Lovely watch.
As I mentioned 2 years ago, when you first wrote about this, I love this piece and it’s great to hear that it checks out on the wrist. I’m still missing a flieger from my collection and this is still the watch I think about when fliegers come up. The Ickler name carries a lot of assurance.
It’s cool you met Lisa Ickler. She once wrote to me about a collaboration and I accidentally mentioned Laco instead of Arcihmede in my reply. She never wrote back 😔