The Kienzle Pilotimer KM-419 is a timepiece that leaves no doubt as to its pilot’s watch characteristics. Large, lume-coated numerals, broad sword-shaped hands, altimeter-style date window, and an aircraft-style seconds hand. It has a distinctive fluted bezel and a large fluted crown. The stainless steel five-link bracelet has a deployant clasp. The case has a 10 atm, 100-metre water resistance.
Movement and dial
The movement is the NH57, a Japanese-made calibre by Seiko, running at 3 Hertz, 21,600 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of 41 hours. It is protected by a solid stainless steel caseback with an engraved decoration.
The overall appearance of the watch is very effective, and it has a certain presence in part due to the 44 mm diameter. The vertical date improves legibility, and the dial is nicely balanced. The fractional seconds track on the bezel rehaut is not particularly useful because it is a long way from the second hand, but it adds some touches of orange and the typical pilot’s watch triangle in the 12 o’clock position.
The Kienzle Pilotimer KM-419 is one of a trio of watches, with the KM-418 (power reserve) and KM-417 (chrono) which share the same basic case design, forming the new departure of Kienzle. Kienzle is a brand with a curious history: founded in Germany in 1822, it is the oldest German watch brand, but today Kienzle is a wholly Italian enterprise that successfully broke away from its parent company which, at least as regards watches, seems to have ceased operation. Read more about Kienzle’s history here.
Kienzle Pilotimer KM-419 price
The Kienzle Pilotimer KM-419 is available from an extensive network of retailers in Italy. To date the Kienzle website does not provide the possibility of online purchase. It costs €388. Find out more on the Kienzle website.