Airain strikes hard with its latest creation, the result of an unexpected collaboration with the French design studio seconde/seconde/. The Type 20 “Up in the Air” revisits the legendary aviation chronograph with a touch of humor and modernity. Limited to 88 pieces, this special edition could well become the object of all desires among collectors. Immediate takeoff for a watch that does not lack air!
An aeronautical heritage revisited with audacity
The Type 20, an iconic chronograph developed in the 1950s for the French Ministry of Defense, is rising from the ashes in an unexpected form. Airain, one of the original manufacturers of this legendary model, has teamed up with the design studio seconde/seconde/ to breathe new life into this icon of military watchmaking.
The result? A watch that retains the technical DNA of the Type 20 while adding fun and offbeat elements:
– Secondary dials decorated with 8-bit pixelated clouds– Tip of the Eiffel Tower integrated into the seconds counter– Airain logo subtly modified to emphasize the word “Air”
These touches of humor, the signature of seconde/seconde/, mischievously recall the French and aeronautical origins of the Type 20.
A case faithful to the original, modern performance
Despite its revised design, the Type 20 “Up in the Air” remains faithful to the aesthetic codes of the original:
– 39mm diameter stainless steel case– Bidirectional bezel with 12-hour countdown scale– Pump pushers and screw-down crown– Domed sapphire crystal
The 50-meter water resistance allows for daily use without fear, even if it is far from the performance of a real diving watch.
The heart of the beast: a manufacture movement that lives up to its reputation
Beneath its playful appearance, the Type 20 “Up in the Air” hides a serious movement: the Caliber AM2. Developed specifically for Airain, this hand-wound movement offers performances worthy of the greatest manufacturers:
– Flyback chronograph function– Frequency of 28,800 vibrations/hour– Power reserve of 63 hours– Column wheel for chronograph control
This movement, based on the architecture of the Sellita SW510 but considerably modified, allows Airain to offer a true manufacture flyback chronograph at an unbeatable price.
A limited edition that risks flying away quickly
The Type 20 “Up in the Air” will be produced in just 88 pieces, divided into two series of 44 watches to be delivered in August and September 2024. With a price set at 3,450 euros, it is positioned as an attractive option for lovers of vintage chronographs looking for exclusivity.
Each watch will come with two straps:– A classic black leather strap– A blue and black NATO strap to match the shades of the dial
This dual option allows you to go from an elegant look to a more casual look in the blink of an eye.
The collaboration between Airain and seconde/seconde/ for the Type 20 “Up in the Air” is a bold gamble that could well redefine the codes of the vintage aviation chronograph. By injecting a dose of humor and modernity into an iconic model, Airain has managed the feat of seducing both purists and a new generation of watch enthusiasts.
This limited edition, which will be available from July 14, 2024, is likely to sell like hotcakes. It represents a unique opportunity to acquire a genuine manufacture flyback chronograph, steeped in history and featuring a unique design, all at a relatively affordable price.
The Type 20 “Up in the Air” is not just a watch: it is a mischievous nod to the history of French watchmaking and aviation. A piece that will not fail to get conversations going among enthusiasts!
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