Stowa - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

While strolling through the aisles of a watch fair, I came face to face with this sublime Stowa French Army Type I. I had wanted a military watch for a long time, and here I am, faced with this model which, in addition, echoes my father's personal history. The seller was parting with this type I, which was more patinated, and a type II, in sensational condition. However, it was in front of this type I that I cracked. A quick exchange with the seller, a negotiation later, here it is on my wrist. It is incredible! A sick presence, a strong history, a contained size (33 mm) which, however, suits my rather large wrist perfectly. The Durowe 422 caliber still works very well, and even if the precision is not up to COSC standards, I don't care. Very happy to now have this piece in my collection. She is number 625. I don't know if she went to Indochina or Algeria, but in any case, she seems to have lived and I like that!

Since I have known Stowa, that is to say since 2010, I have been circling around the Flieger without ever daring to cross the line, and finally acquire one. Then, while browsing a second-hand watch sales site, I came across this beautiful Flieger from 09/2023 (I am writing these lines in 04/2024), in perfect condition, full set, at a good price. Come on, go. I'll buy it. I was afraid that the simplicity of the dial would be problematic, but the reputation of the flieger being well established, I was still rather serene when validating the transaction; I just had to see what it would look like when worn. What a nice surprise: here is a watch that is not very thick (thanks to the beautiful mechanical movement, devoid of an oscillating weight), very readable, with generous luminova, offering incredible readability in all circumstances. The Stowa logo is very discreet (gray on a black background, and in small size), while the date is discreet at 6 o'clock. Its proportions are excellent (40mm) and its wear is most pleasant. The detail that kills: the blue of its absolutely magnificent hands, visible during light reflections, while they are invisible and confused with the color of the dial outside of any reflection. A real success!

A very beautiful classic Stowa pilot's watch, a historic brand of German aviators' equipment during the 2nd World War I like the readable and refined dial without date and without logo. The blued hands on the edges and the small second give it a little touch of refinement. I particularly appreciate its beautifully crafted UNITAS 6498 hand-wound movement, visible through the open back and engraved with the brand name. The robust brushed case and its oversized crown add to the vintage Flieger style.