You two are my watch role models. I am 18 and already very into watches but wanted to know if you had advice on how to get deeper into this hobby like you are.
noone knows better what you appreaciate and like but you. Stowa is one of 4 german manifacturers that made pilot watches for the german Luftwaffe (airforce), the other one is Laco, Wempe, Lange and Söhne and the swiss manifacturer International Watch Company (IWC). Those watches were big and easily readible in most extreme conditions. The first pilot and wrist watch was made by Cartier, a french jewelier and watch maker btw (the santos) All those companies still exist. Most of those companies have a history of over 100 years and it depends on you if you appreaciate the craftmanship and design or not. There are many watch makers producing replicas now, some more expensive than the original. Steinhart is a newer manifacturer that is quite affordable, like Stowa and Lico. ICW however is quite expensive. Morever those watches are automatic watches, meaning they still have mechanical parts behind. Automatic means that unlike the first mechanical watches that you had to rewind yourself, they use the energy caused by the motion of the wearer to self-rewind. A cheap modern watch normally just uses a battery to power the dial, a so called Quartz clock. Personally I like pilot watches and sublity and elegance, which is a vague term but I really like the Tissot Ballade Powermatic 80 COSC or Breitling Transocean Day and Date or Omega Globemaster. The Tissot is under 1000$. Rolex pionioneered quite a bit of watch designs, like their famous diver watches. But nowadays not many watches have a history like those pilot watches. Manifacturers like Citizen and Seiko, both japanese, make some great and affordable watches (and expensive ones).I like the Citizen Axiom for 300ish $. If you appreaciate how those watches are made (just watch a Rolex commercial for example) you understand the craftmanship behind it. Nice youtube video btw. I prefer the A-dial too. You choose the watch I would buy too with the blue hands.
dunno if you guys gives a damn but if you are stoned like me during the covid times you can watch all the new series on Instaflixxer. I've been watching with my brother for the last few days :)
Stowa is becoming one of my favourite brands when it comes to bang for your buck. I just bought a used but mint Marine Classic 36 manual wind, I love what this brand is putting out.
Gotta say I agree with you, Adam; there's something about owning one of the original five. That's one big reason why I opted for my Stowa, albeit in blue! Absolutely love it!
Clock Stock & Barrel Yes, I did, secondhand. Took me months to find one, but it was worth it. You may have seen my pics of it in the IWA Facebook group (my name is Brandon Baines).
Lol I love how you completely ignored what he wants to say at around 08:30 and he tried really hard to make his point about the brown strap even with hand gestures. That cracked me up and made my day loll!!
thanks to this video and others on youtube I was hella sold on this watch. went with date a date version just for pure functionality. should be receiving it at the end of this month.
I just got my flieger a few days ago and have been wearing it. 40 mm may seem small on paper, but it doesn't look small on my wrist. The quality is great. It's the perfect watch for taking vital signs in a darkened room at work! The luminous second hand is amazingly legible in the dark.
Last year I got a Laco type B, really love the pilot watch aesthetic. Recently bought an army green nato and it looks great on that strap. Like you mentioned it is much more comfortable for the hot months on a nato. Love the show, keep it up.
Guys, just came across your videos about a week or so ago. I've just been sitting watching through them on my days off. Really enjoying the content you guys are bringing out!
I love watching you guys, as a 21 year old I can finally relate to watch geeks who (even though you guys are a wealth of knowledge) aren't walking encyclopaedias (WuW) or very abstract personalities (TWC) but relatable dudes with great personality and great advice!
I own a Stowa Flieger as well (no logo, no date). It's one of those purchases where the excitement never dissipates. With that said, I'm coming up on the 5 year mark, and I'm really not looking forward to paying 1/3 of what I paid for it to get it serviced. Part of me says it's not worth getting it serviced and just wearing it until it dies or is unusable. What do you guys think about paying ~$250 to get a $900 watch serviced?
Great video guys and couldn’t agree more. I bought the 40mm no logo with date. Live in the Stuttgart area so I actually drove to the Black Forest to pick mine up. Made the experience even more special.
Great review! I bought two Stowa. Each one to the birth of my sons. We live in Rheinfelden / Germany where Stowa had with DUROWE a factory for movements. I love my Stowa Flieger no date / no logo and my Stowa Seatime Prodiver.
As usual, I'm on the same wavelength as you guys. I've been really interested in adding a flieger to my collection for quite a while. Earlier this year I bought a B-dial Laco and immediately disliked it for several reasons and returned it (a first for me). I realized that I would prefer an A-dial version and hadn't considered Stova. Now I'm off to their website to consider a purchase there although Steinhart's offerings are a bit bigger (44mm and 47mm versions) and are very competitively priced (around $400) with either Unitas automatic or ETA 2824 automatic movements. But this Stova is really nice looking and as Adam says, it has more claim to the heritage of this WWII era design. Thanks!
The Stowa is a classic! Had the Archimede, which is another great option. Now sporting a Damasko. Patrick, go for it. It's a great modern re-interpretation of the classic Flieger.
Love the look of the blue hands. Not having a screw down crown is a deal breaker for me. Anonimo when it was in Italy made a salt water resistant leather strap. I have one on my Day Date Anonimo super comfortable. Wish they still made them.
FYI -IWC made the fewest for the Wehrmacht. Also - the Laco high end ones are the most accurate design. They are bead blasted cases and blued hands. In the high end models, you can only get an unsigned case. I have the Nav B Laco with a 2824. Super accurate. I do like the more contemporary Stowaway in a A dial.
didn't even noticed the triangle and double dots lol, been admiring that dial all video until that was pointed out ! I'm new to the hobby and mostly gravitate towards divers so seiko and steinhart is in the rotation, recently just purchased the hammy khaki field and loving it ...you guys seem cool subbed and liked !
Patrick I think the Stowa is pretty ergonomic compared to, say, the IWC Mark 18 (also 40mm). When I tried that on I didn't like how flat that case was on the bottom, it doesn't exactly curve with the wrist and wears quite big. The Stowa is back on my radar as a relatively good fit (also much more affordable!). No screw down crown, but I wouldn't -intentionally - wear a pilot watch (with leather strap) swimming anyway.
Wow, it really seems you guys have similar tastes to mine. This Stowa is just one of the not-so-well-known watches I was considering before discovering your channel. I'm currently on the waiting list for the manual wind for this watch. I can't get it out of my head for the last few months, which is probably a sign that I should try it.
I bought the IWC mark xviii and it's amazing. You can get it pre owned almost new for 2500 bucks. Buy a 40 dollar Bob pilot strap from Germany. Amazing quality. Also to you comment on showing off? Iwc makes the best hands and the santoni strap is on another level. They also modify the hell out of the top grade ETA 2824 and keeps time to plus 1 second a day. Their crown actuation has also been reworked. Either way the hands on any IWC pilot are second to none.
Watching from Texas hearing this guy talk about how hot it gets in NYC. Ha, anyways, I have the laco neapel, it’s a good alternative if you want to spend less. However, I would like a higher end laco or stowa in the future. Leaning into the stowa a bit right now. Variety is always good.
Recommend highly for rounding out a collection. Wear a Laco 1925 Munster. One of my favorites. Actually prefer it over the IWC, as I think their power reserve indicator takes away from the aesthetic. Don't know why more collectors don't add a flieger, other than the fact that many "collectors" buy on name rather than style.
Great video guys, it actually made me place an order for the special edition currently being offered. I got the 40MM auto no logo no date. Thanks again for the video keep it up.
Have y'all seen the Tourby Flieger watches? I would really like know what your opinions are regarding Tourby watches and quality control standards. Great videos too!
When deciding to purchase the Stowa for $300 more than the Archimede, was Stowa being the original 5 the only deciding factor or did you go with Stowa over Archimede for another reason?
Yeah. No logo no date historical design flieger from laco it is for the win. But anyways you won't go wrong as long as you stick to stowa, laco, iwc, wempe or lange for a remarkable flieger.
Actually there's also the 43 mm ones, not sure if Adam checked their website well as he said he'd rather have it slightly bigger. Anddd also a mini second with Unitas Manual wound which is gorgeous. Great brand, great history, good content guys. Keep it up! Regards, Fabio.
I just got the Stowa Verus 40 it's more of a modern take on the classic, it's better for me with my poor vision up close because the hands are fully lumed there's no color except white on the hands which makes it easier to see. It doesn't have the fancy movement like the classic it's blasted not brushed, but it's a few hundred $$$ less. I thought a very good deal...until I received it.... I had a issue with the watch though because of Stowa's choice of packaging (Fedex box made for documents) there isn't room in box for padding on 2 sides of watch box and plenty of room for watch to slide end to end inside packaging box only 2 pieces of butcher paper for padding. I was taken aback even before I opened package. Long story short, the watch was damaged right out of box. The minute hand had been jarred loose and was hitting the second hand! Now I ask anyone what would you expect Stowa do? Replace entire watch? Repair watch with new movement and hands or just replace hands? I requested that they either send new watch or at least replace movement and hands...nope, they just replaced hands (maybe just re-installed them) Shipping was free both ways, but guess what the returned watch was in same inferior Fedex document box (no padding on 2 sides) and still 2 pieces of butcher paper (not enough IMO) the Fedex box was totally crushed on one end and the Stowa box inside has a nice crushed corner. This is my first Stowa watch and probably my last. This ordeal left me feeling no good about a watch and a company so highly regarded by many. So the Verus 40 seems to be working fine but it's about +10sec a day which is surprising because supposedly they time each and every watch in 6 positions before leaving them, I thought it would be better. Owning this watch now does not make me all warm and fuzzy because of my bad experience VERY DISAPPOINTED
Yes, I like Laco as well. I own a Laco Leipzig 42mm flieger (Type B dial) and I've worn it to work and evenings out (restaurants, movies). It really captures the WWII flieger look and it feels comfortable on my wrist. But I believe the Munster 42mm (Type A) is more along the same lines as the Stowa Klassik in the video review. Another great review guys.
Got into watches recently and love your channel! The first watch that struck my eye was a Hamilton Khaki Pilot Day-Date 38mm with the embossed numbers and the Type B dial. Looks absolutely gorgeous and the 200m water resistance makes it the perfect tool watch. The next watch I am looking at getting is the Sinn 104 with indices, but I am just hesitating on pulling the trigger because it is almost 1500 dollars, but I love the look so much! What do you think of a 41 mm watch on my 6.25 inch wrist? Would it be too large?
Have a Look at the Tutima Grand Klassik F2 Chronograph. It s the Flieger I own. It is also an original watch maker based in germany, Glashütte which manufactured the famous Tutima watch back in World War II
The best thing is that for my tiny 5.7" wrist they have a 36mm as well. And as stated in the comments, already a 43mm too. I'm a Sinn fanboy, but unfortunately there is only one 37mm Sinn tool watch and that is the U200 and is a gigantic 15mm thick. Unfortunately for me, Sinn as not made a 36mm tool watch or flieger at all, ever, as far as I know. Hence I'm really contemplating the Stowa Klassik Flieger 36. Such a gorgeous watch. The dial is outsourced too by the way. (See TGV's review.) I only cannot get over the 5ATM. Since I wear my watch 24/7. Also it would be very hard to part with my SKX013 with its super convenient day-date complication. Have a custom 12-hour GMT bezel incoming for it by the way. Kind regards from Amsterdam
Hey guys. Just came across your channel and thought this video was terrific. I've been really close to picking up a no logo, no date Klassik for months, but I'm constantly vacillating between the 36mm and the 40mm. I've sold off most of my larger watches, my largest now being a Seiko Pogue. I also recently picked up a Smiths PRS29A - 36mm -which I love. And I have a Black Bay Heritage 36mm which I keep on the bracelet and is pretty close to perfect for me, size-wise. That said, I'm wondering if the 36mm Stowa is gonna be a mistake, although I believe I read the bezel is a little thinner on the 36 than on the 40, so the watch might wear a little bigger. Anyway, I was curious as to the size of Patrick's wrist - the watch looked good on him (mine's 7.00"). Of course, I know that it's always a matter of personal taste. Thanks, and looking forward to checking out more of your posts.
Great watch guys! I was on the fence for one of these for the longest time! IWC actually use Selitta movements now... go figure. Checkout the Timefactors Smiths PRS29b as well. The best field watch imho.
I was about to get a laco dc-3 (more a cockpit watch than a flieger) with antique case but went for another diver watch and then another diver and when I wanted to order the laco it was out of stock. A "B" dial automatic or the spirit of st-louis is also tempting. While I like their antique finish like the one offered on the dc-3, I wouldn't go for the full fake patina like they do on some laco. I prefer to put the patina myself by using the watches. Not that it's not well done but I don't really like the concept of artificially aging the watch.
Dudes! That's excellent that you're reviewing this watch. just bought the exact same model (40mm logo no date). I'm an airline pilot so it was the same price to fly to pickup in person than ship. Saw the factory and head watchmaker Jorg Schauer. Such a cool little spot in the black forest! Also visited Laco. Glad you're enjoying your piece! Definitely one of my favorites. I usually end up coming back to the box before leaving the house to take off what I'm wearing and put this on instead LOL. Great video boys! PS: Here are some shots from the trip if you're interested to see where it comes from; m.imgur.com/gallery/pxtdi
Hey Jordan, very nice! I will be visiting Stowa in a few weeks, and was wondering if it is possible to try on and purchase watches on site. Or did you have to order it beforehand and pick it up on site? Thank you so much for your time!Peter
Hey Peter, While I was there, there was actually a guy selecting a watch to buy so I'm sure you can just purchase them on-site. They have display models you can choose from and the staff are very nice and helpful. Shouldn't be a problem! Enjoy the visit!
Wow thank you so much Jordan! It would really be amazing to try the Flieger 40. I've been eyeing it for more than a year, but I'm a bit hesitant to order online before trying it on. If I like it on the wrist, it might be coming home with me :) I really look forward to it! Thanks again!
Somebody should tell IWC a window date doesnt belong on a Flieger watch (imo). I own a Laco Dortmund with the "original case" and it's just a beautiful piece. Flieger B, 45mm, handwinding, unique case + grey pvd, bright lume, eta 2801...
Well... a bit long winded but that STOWA Flieger Klassik 4 Modelbau A deserves even more time ! And admiration ! Nice job, boys ! P.S. Stowa reads like "Shto-wa" !
Have you seen the 43mm Stowa Flieger Klassik Sport? I've got one, and the larger size (43mm) feels a bit more true to the original Flieger aesthetic. I have the no date, logo version, like your Klassik here. The only drawback style-wise is that the crown is cylindrical and doesn't have that classic onion shape. I wish Stowa offered the Sport 43mm with that onion crown. The only other significant differences are a slightly thicker case (12.8mm vs 10mm in the Klassik) because the Sport is rated to 20 atm vs the 5atm of the Klassik.
I love IWC watches it's my favorite brand, I own the UTC model it has a GMT dial and a calendar it's few years old 2nd generation model but mint like new, I looked into a big pilot but was just too large for me. Really looking into getting a Portuguese 7 day power reserve little more than I want to spend but probably will go the used route. IWC in the past used 2892-A2 movements and heavily modified them to the point it was almost in house and then coated them in 21K Gold, which mine is. Later towards the end they were coated in Nickle. But unfortunately starting with the Mark 18 series and being cut off from ETA they now use Selita movements and modify those. They also lowered the retail price on them by over 500 dollars which I could never understand until I learned this little fact. For some reason Pilot watches always spoke to me, so that's why I picked one up if I didn't get my UTC I was going to get a Mark series but refuse to get a new one at those prices and a Selita. Luckily I think only the Mark series are the only ones with non in house movements that IWC produces today. What sucks is new your paying over 10K new if you want a in house movement.
It was the MkXV series produced from 98-04 as well as the UTC series. In 03-04 was the transitional change over to movements with Nickle plating instead of 21k Gold so some models where still Gold plated I'm guessing the used what movements they had already produced.
Its a nice watch, maybe not as nice as the Grosse Flieger by IWC, but affordable and quite good looking. I like that its slightly modernised and looks less tooly. For the real Beobachtungsuhrenlook the Laco original watches with 42 and 45mm are the way to go. If you have the wrist size. For my stick arms 40mm are enough…
I am just looking around about watches to learn and watch the variety of those beauties. Really good video, enjoyed it very much! And because I am german: congrats about your pronunciation in general. But only one thing about the motto from the beginning, the german "mutated vovels" (? don't know the english term) are indeed kind of strange. You said "schon" and thats a bit funny, because "schon" and "schön" are both existing words in german, but with differen meanings: schon = yet, schön = beautiful
Owned a Hamilton 47mm. Lovely watch, way too large and thick. Owned a Ventus Caspian. Same there, even if bronze was charming. Owned a Seiko SNZH13, but sold it after three years. That was my first Automatic. Still own a Citizen Promaster sky watch, which is indestructible, but a decent Flieger kept itching in the back of my head. Incoming now a Stowa Ikarus. It's a bit different, with the grey, but finally. Much nicer than their Laco and Archimede counterparts. Stowa is the bomb.
My dream collection includes the Hamilton 38 Intra-matic, the Tudor Black bay, the Junghans Chronoscope and this exact Stowa. It is far superior than the IWC because of the simple fact that the IWC is a luxury piece with a certain flash to it. This Stowa is all business, nothing other than the perfect tool watch. I would only get a manual wind if possible - right now it's only 36mm (too small, not flieger size at all) or it's a sub seconds dial - not my thing. The only other watches that might be considered on the same level design-wise (pure function) are for me the Laco Erbstück Memmingen or Padeborn . IMO they have a better tool style case, but the Stowa is more...normal for day-to-day use so...
FYI - you can absolutely get this exact model (40 mm) with a manual wind on their website! It's a 16 Euro upcharge for an ETA 2804-2 movement. I'm actually ordering one this week! 😁
Stowa has the bended lugs and hand polished case. Laco is more authentic to the design issued by RLM in 1940s... depends what you want to go for...beauty or historical design.
Nice and fun video, but I just had to mention, you pronounce it in the what you said how the russians would... ;) in most cases when there's an "ST" in German, the S is pronounced like the "sch" in german is...
You two are my watch role models. I am 18 and already very into watches but wanted to know if you had advice on how to get deeper into this hobby like you are.
noone knows better what you appreaciate and like but you. Stowa is one of 4 german manifacturers that made pilot watches for the german Luftwaffe (airforce), the other one is Laco, Wempe, Lange and Söhne and the swiss manifacturer International Watch Company (IWC). Those watches were big and easily readible in most extreme conditions. The first pilot and wrist watch was made by Cartier, a french jewelier and watch maker btw (the santos) All those companies still exist. Most of those companies have a history of over 100 years and it depends on you if you appreaciate the craftmanship and design or not. There are many watch makers producing replicas now, some more expensive than the original. Steinhart is a newer manifacturer that is quite affordable, like Stowa and Lico. ICW however is quite expensive. Morever those watches are automatic watches, meaning they still have mechanical parts behind. Automatic means that unlike the first mechanical watches that you had to rewind yourself, they use the energy caused by the motion of the wearer to self-rewind. A cheap modern watch normally just uses a battery to power the dial, a so called Quartz clock. Personally I like pilot watches and sublity and elegance, which is a vague term but I really like the Tissot Ballade Powermatic 80 COSC or Breitling Transocean Day and Date or Omega Globemaster. The Tissot is under 1000$. Rolex pionioneered quite a bit of watch designs, like their famous diver watches. But nowadays not many watches have a history like those pilot watches. Manifacturers like Citizen and Seiko, both japanese, make some great and affordable watches (and expensive ones).I like the Citizen Axiom for 300ish $. If you appreaciate how those watches are made (just watch a Rolex commercial for example) you understand the craftmanship behind it.
Nice youtube video btw. I prefer the A-dial too. You choose the watch I would buy too with the blue hands.
dunno if you guys gives a damn but if you are stoned like me during the covid times you can watch all the new series on Instaflixxer. I've been watching with my brother for the last few days :)
@Axl Gustavo definitely, I have been watching on instaflixxer for months myself =)
I like the case design more then the Laco I tried. Stowa adds all the extra touches that make it the logical choice really. Great video guys.
Stowa is becoming one of my favourite brands when it comes to bang for your buck. I just bought a used but mint Marine Classic 36 manual wind, I love what this brand is putting out.
Gotta say I agree with you, Adam; there's something about owning one of the original five. That's one big reason why I opted for my Stowa, albeit in blue! Absolutely love it!
Clock Stock & Barrel Yes, I did, secondhand. Took me months to find one, but it was worth it. You may have seen my pics of it in the IWA Facebook group (my name is Brandon Baines).
Don't forget the 2824 in those are the top grade! ETA makes four calibres of the 2824 and that's the best second to the chronometre calibre
Justin Tavares thanks for this! I've been trying to find out what grade they were
Excellent discussion on the Fleger watch legacy and how extraordinary they truly are. Your enthusiasm is an inspiration to us all. Thanks.
You guys hit every single possible point that a true watch lover would want to talk about. Nailed it. Thanks!
Lol I love how you completely ignored what he wants to say at around 08:30 and he tried really hard to make his point about the brown strap even with hand gestures. That cracked me up and made my day loll!!
I have had my Stowa Flieger for over 8 years, I guess I need to send it back for servicing sometime, just hate to part with it, still works perfect.
thanks to this video and others on youtube I was hella sold on this watch. went with date a date version just for pure functionality. should be receiving it at the end of this month.
11:30 Just checked it: there is a 43 mm version, too :)
Have the 40 mm and love it.
I just got my flieger a few days ago and have been wearing it. 40 mm may seem small on paper, but it doesn't look small on my wrist. The quality is great. It's the perfect watch for taking vital signs in a darkened room at work! The luminous second hand is amazingly legible in the dark.
Last year I got a Laco type B, really love the pilot watch aesthetic. Recently bought an army green nato and it looks great on that strap. Like you mentioned it is much more comfortable for the hot months on a nato. Love the show, keep it up.
Definitely going to be my next watch purchase. Such a beautiful piece.
I am tempted on the small seconds no logo. love the idea of war related watch because war was the reason why we are wearing wrist watches now.
Guys, just came across your videos about a week or so ago. I've just been sitting watching through them on my days off. Really enjoying the content you guys are bringing out!
I love watching you guys, as a 21 year old I can finally relate to watch geeks who (even though you guys are a wealth of knowledge) aren't walking encyclopaedias (WuW) or very abstract personalities (TWC) but relatable dudes with great personality and great advice!
I own a Stowa Flieger as well (no logo, no date). It's one of those purchases where the excitement never dissipates. With that said, I'm coming up on the 5 year mark, and I'm really not looking forward to paying 1/3 of what I paid for it to get it serviced. Part of me says it's not worth getting it serviced and just wearing it until it dies or is unusable. What do you guys think about paying ~$250 to get a $900 watch serviced?
Great video guys and couldn’t agree more. I bought the 40mm no logo with date. Live in the Stuttgart area so I actually drove to the Black Forest to pick mine up. Made the experience even more special.
James Carter wow that is memorable. Congrats!
Great review!
I bought two Stowa. Each one to the birth of my sons.
We live in Rheinfelden / Germany where Stowa had with DUROWE a factory for movements.
I love my Stowa Flieger no date / no logo and my Stowa Seatime Prodiver.
WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE STEINHART VERSON ?
As usual, I'm on the same wavelength as you guys. I've been really interested in adding a flieger to my collection for quite a while.
Earlier this year I bought a B-dial Laco and immediately disliked it for several reasons and returned it (a first for me). I realized that I would prefer an A-dial version and hadn't considered Stova. Now I'm off to their website to consider a purchase there although Steinhart's offerings are a bit bigger (44mm and 47mm versions) and are very competitively priced (around $400) with either Unitas automatic or ETA 2824 automatic movements. But this Stova is really nice looking and as Adam says, it has more claim to the heritage of this WWII era design. Thanks!
Btw, is the rotor the default one? Or did you top up for customized version? I personally think this one looks the best!
yes - default! Sorry!
This rotor engraving is similar to the engraving on the back of the original fliegers. It was part of the military spec.
The Stowa is a classic! Had the Archimede, which is another great option. Now sporting a Damasko. Patrick, go for it. It's a great modern re-interpretation of the classic Flieger.
Love the look of the blue hands. Not having a screw down crown is a deal breaker for me. Anonimo when it was in Italy made a salt water resistant leather strap. I have one on my Day Date Anonimo super comfortable. Wish they still made them.
Owning a Laco Leipzig, 42mm and handwound. Cannot admire it enough, stare at it everyday wearing it.
What's the model of this watch? I noticed that all the newer flieger watches don't have the "made in Germany" logo on the bottom of the dial.
Just a note, the IWC Mark 18 has a modified ETA 2892 movement, not a 2824.
I like it. Adam.. why did you opt for automatic rather than the manual? The Anniversary models look great too!
Any reason why you didn't go for the Unitas movement?
Good video. Only found this channel this week and loving it. 👍🏻
Guys, which grade movement did you get - elabore or top grade? How did it perform in real life in terms of time-keeping?
FYI -IWC made the fewest for the Wehrmacht. Also - the Laco high end ones are the most accurate design. They are bead blasted cases and blued hands. In the high end models, you can only get an unsigned case. I have the Nav B Laco with a 2824. Super accurate. I do like the more contemporary Stowaway in a A dial.
didn't even noticed the triangle and double dots lol, been admiring that dial all video until that was pointed out ! I'm new to the hobby and mostly gravitate towards divers so seiko and steinhart is in the rotation, recently just purchased the hammy khaki field and loving it ...you guys seem cool subbed and liked !
Aristo also makes a good Flieger.....German made as well, you guys should check it out
Hey great video! I'm thinking of ordering the same stowa but was curious what you think of the archemide pilot watches?
Patrick I think the Stowa is pretty ergonomic compared to, say, the IWC Mark 18 (also 40mm). When I tried that on I didn't like how flat that case was on the bottom, it doesn't exactly curve with the wrist and wears quite big. The Stowa is back on my radar as a relatively good fit (also much more affordable!). No screw down crown, but I wouldn't -intentionally - wear a pilot watch (with leather strap) swimming anyway.
Wow, it really seems you guys have similar tastes to mine. This Stowa is just one of the not-so-well-known watches I was considering before discovering your channel. I'm currently on the waiting list for the manual wind for this watch. I can't get it out of my head for the last few months, which is probably a sign that I should try it.
Do they do a 42 or 44mm perhaps?
Where did you purchase this Stowa?
I bought the IWC mark xviii and it's amazing. You can get it pre owned almost new for 2500 bucks. Buy a 40 dollar Bob pilot strap from Germany. Amazing quality. Also to you comment on showing off? Iwc makes the best hands and the santoni strap is on another level. They also modify the hell out of the top grade ETA 2824 and keeps time to plus 1 second a day. Their crown actuation has also been reworked. Either way the hands on any IWC pilot are second to none.
Hi guys, I love the channel. That is a fine looking watch. I am going to have to start saving my dollars.
The Stowa is beautiful! Hopefully you still have it.
Been tempted off and on to get a blue one from WatchGecko.
sweet review! definitely close to pulling the trigger. Can't believe it took 2 days shipping.
Watching from Texas hearing this guy talk about how hot it gets in NYC.
Ha, anyways, I have the laco neapel, it’s a good alternative if you want to spend less. However, I would like a higher end laco or stowa in the future. Leaning into the stowa a bit right now. Variety is always good.
Recommend highly for rounding out a collection. Wear a Laco 1925 Munster. One of my favorites. Actually prefer it over the IWC, as I think their power reserve indicator takes away from the aesthetic. Don't know why more collectors don't add a flieger, other than the fact that many "collectors" buy on name rather than style.
Great video guys, it actually made me place an order for the special edition currently being offered. I got the 40MM auto no logo no date. Thanks again for the video keep it up.
I have a damasko da36a. this flieger looks great. simple design. classic look. i was wondering about the waterproof depth. can you swim with it?
Have y'all seen the Tourby Flieger watches? I would really like know what your opinions are regarding Tourby watches and quality control standards. Great videos too!
When deciding to purchase the Stowa for $300 more than the Archimede, was Stowa being the original 5 the only deciding factor or did you go with Stowa over Archimede for another reason?
FluffingForbin i know the lume on the stowa is much better
Yeah I agree about wanting a larger flieger. Stowas are good but Laco for me (42 sweetspot). IWC big pilot is like the king of all fliegers right now.
The Laco original flieger series are the closest to the original. Im thinking about getting a Laco flieger over the Stowa for that reason.
Yeah. No logo no date historical design flieger from laco it is for the win. But anyways you won't go wrong as long as you stick to stowa, laco, iwc, wempe or lange for a remarkable flieger.
Actually there's also the 43 mm ones, not sure if Adam checked their website well as he said he'd rather have it slightly bigger. Anddd also a mini second with Unitas Manual wound which is gorgeous. Great brand, great history, good content guys. Keep it up!
Regards,
Fabio.
Aalright, my bad then Adam, you went for the right one. Cheers man!
Why are you smelling the watch at 3:15? Lol
I just got the Stowa Verus 40 it's more of a modern take on the classic, it's better for me with my poor vision up close because the hands are fully lumed there's no color except white on the hands which makes it easier to see. It doesn't have the fancy movement like the classic it's blasted not brushed, but it's a few hundred $$$ less. I thought a very good deal...until I received it....
I had a issue with the watch though because of Stowa's choice of packaging (Fedex box made for documents) there isn't room in box for padding on 2 sides of watch box and plenty of room for watch to slide end to end inside packaging box only 2 pieces of butcher paper for padding. I was taken aback even before I opened package.
Long story short, the watch was damaged right out of box. The minute hand had been jarred loose and was hitting the second hand! Now I ask anyone what would you expect Stowa do?
Replace entire watch? Repair watch with new movement and hands or just replace hands? I requested that they either send new watch or at least replace movement and hands...nope, they just replaced hands (maybe just re-installed them) Shipping was free both ways, but guess what the returned watch was in same inferior Fedex document box (no padding on 2 sides) and still 2 pieces of butcher paper (not enough IMO) the Fedex box was totally crushed on one end and the Stowa box inside has a nice crushed corner.
This is my first Stowa watch and probably my last. This ordeal left me feeling no good about a watch and a company so highly regarded by many.
So the Verus 40 seems to be working fine but it's about +10sec a day which is surprising because supposedly they time each and every watch in 6 positions before leaving them, I thought it would be better. Owning this watch now does not make me all warm and fuzzy because of my bad experience VERY DISAPPOINTED
Tempted to give one of those $200 quartz fliegers a test run in my rotation before committing to a "real" one.
Price is now a little over 1k now, still worth it?
yes, perhaps go for the maual wind.
Might be better since the dollar has gained on the euro
can you put a unitas 6498 inside a 40mm case?
Hi, nice video. I own a Laco 43 and I love it. It a must for any watch enthusiast.
Yes, I like Laco as well. I own a Laco Leipzig 42mm flieger (Type B dial) and I've worn it to work and evenings out (restaurants, movies). It really captures the WWII flieger look and it feels comfortable on my wrist. But I believe the Munster 42mm (Type A) is more along the same lines as the Stowa Klassik in the video review. Another great review guys.
So. do you still have it?
longgg gone to fund others
Great Work! Love the VIDEO!
Got into watches recently and love your channel! The first watch that struck my eye was a Hamilton Khaki Pilot Day-Date 38mm with the embossed numbers and the Type B dial. Looks absolutely gorgeous and the 200m water resistance makes it the perfect tool watch. The next watch I am looking at getting is the Sinn 104 with indices, but I am just hesitating on pulling the trigger because it is almost 1500 dollars, but I love the look so much! What do you think of a 41 mm watch on my 6.25 inch wrist? Would it be too large?
Have a Look at the Tutima Grand Klassik F2 Chronograph. It s the Flieger I own. It is also an original watch maker based in germany, Glashütte which manufactured the famous Tutima watch back in World War II
2824-2 blue screws, top grade. I have the TO2 , Red second hand, number 001.
I like these guys, good review. 👌
The best thing is that for my tiny 5.7" wrist they have a 36mm as well. And as stated in the comments, already a 43mm too. I'm a Sinn fanboy, but unfortunately there is only one 37mm Sinn tool watch and that is the U200 and is a gigantic 15mm thick. Unfortunately for me, Sinn as not made a 36mm tool watch or flieger at all, ever, as far as I know. Hence I'm really contemplating the Stowa Klassik Flieger 36. Such a gorgeous watch. The dial is outsourced too by the way. (See TGV's review.) I only cannot get over the 5ATM. Since I wear my watch 24/7. Also it would be very hard to part with my SKX013 with its super convenient day-date complication. Have a custom 12-hour GMT bezel incoming for it by the way.
Kind regards from Amsterdam
Hey guys. Just came across your channel and thought this video was terrific. I've been really close to picking up a no logo, no date Klassik for months, but I'm constantly vacillating between the 36mm and the 40mm. I've sold off most of my larger watches, my largest now being a Seiko Pogue. I also recently picked up a Smiths PRS29A - 36mm -which I love. And I have a Black Bay Heritage 36mm which I keep on the bracelet and is pretty close to perfect for me, size-wise. That said, I'm wondering if the 36mm Stowa is gonna be a mistake, although I believe I read the bezel is a little thinner on the 36 than on the 40, so the watch might wear a little bigger. Anyway, I was curious as to the size of Patrick's wrist - the watch looked good on him (mine's 7.00"). Of course, I know that it's always a matter of personal taste. Thanks, and looking forward to checking out more of your posts.
Pretty cool to be able to get a watch with so much history for such a great price. Great vid guys👍
Great watch guys! I was on the fence for one of these for the longest time! IWC actually use Selitta movements now... go figure. Checkout the Timefactors Smiths PRS29b as well. The best field watch imho.
Cool watch guys, so legible. Iwas actually looking at one but went for Sinn 104 instead . The saving begins again!lol
Fry da eggs on da stova. Good review
I was about to get a laco dc-3 (more a cockpit watch than a flieger) with antique case but went for another diver watch and then another diver and when I wanted to order the laco it was out of stock. A "B" dial automatic or the spirit of st-louis is also tempting.
While I like their antique finish like the one offered on the dc-3, I wouldn't go for the full fake patina like they do on some laco. I prefer to put the patina myself by using the watches. Not that it's not well done but I don't really like the concept of artificially aging the watch.
Great video, thanks
Dudes! That's excellent that you're reviewing this watch. just bought the exact same model (40mm logo no date). I'm an airline pilot so it was the same price to fly to pickup in person than ship. Saw the factory and head watchmaker Jorg Schauer. Such a cool little spot in the black forest! Also visited Laco. Glad you're enjoying your piece! Definitely one of my favorites. I usually end up coming back to the box before leaving the house to take off what I'm wearing and put this on instead LOL. Great video boys!
PS: Here are some shots from the trip if you're interested to see where it comes from;
m.imgur.com/gallery/pxtdi
Hey Jordan, very nice! I will be visiting Stowa in a few weeks, and was wondering if it is possible to try on and purchase watches on site. Or did you have to order it beforehand and pick it up on site? Thank you so much for your time!Peter
Hey Peter,
While I was there, there was actually a guy selecting a watch to buy so I'm sure you can just purchase them on-site. They have display models you can choose from and the staff are very nice and helpful. Shouldn't be a problem! Enjoy the visit!
Wow thank you so much Jordan! It would really be amazing to try the Flieger 40. I've been eyeing it for more than a year, but I'm a bit hesitant to order online before trying it on. If I like it on the wrist, it might be coming home with me :) I really look forward to it! Thanks again!
Somebody should tell IWC a window date doesnt belong on a Flieger watch (imo). I own a Laco Dortmund with the "original case" and it's just a beautiful piece. Flieger B, 45mm, handwinding, unique case + grey pvd, bright lume, eta 2801...
IWC must have listened.
If I am to get a flieger, Stowa/Laco/Archimede will be my choice! Btw, Are you planning to get the new Oris Aquis 2017 model? It looks fantastic
Fair enough! Btw, you just got a new subscriber :)
Well... a bit long winded but that STOWA Flieger Klassik 4 Modelbau A deserves even more time ! And admiration ! Nice job, boys !
P.S. Stowa reads like "Shto-wa" !
Have you seen the 43mm Stowa Flieger Klassik Sport? I've got one, and the larger size (43mm) feels a bit more true to the original Flieger aesthetic. I have the no date, logo version, like your Klassik here. The only drawback style-wise is that the crown is cylindrical and doesn't have that classic onion shape. I wish Stowa offered the Sport 43mm with that onion crown.
The only other significant differences are a slightly thicker case (12.8mm vs 10mm in the Klassik) because the Sport is rated to 20 atm vs the 5atm of the Klassik.
Laco and Steinhart offer good watches with 42mm and up.
Guys, there is a 43mm version.
Oh. I was thinking of getting the 43mm. (that's how I landed on your review). Do you recommend that version?
Thanks. Just emptied my wallet.
It's the sport version and has better water resistance. It has a different case and is more expensive also.
Review that heritage bb black! That might be my next!
They are making a 43 mm now. I'm ordering a 43 mm Chrono. I can't wait to get it. And it's pronounced "shtova."
Great video
Im open to another one maybe an IWC or Breitling
that's a bit out of my sphere (thugh nice) but I may get the Mark XVIII or whatever itiration IWC are up to in about 5 years.
yeap it's great
I love IWC watches it's my favorite brand, I own the UTC model it has a GMT dial and a calendar it's few years old 2nd generation model but mint like new, I looked into a big pilot but was just too large for me. Really looking into getting a Portuguese 7 day power reserve little more than I want to spend but probably will go the used route.
IWC in the past used 2892-A2 movements and heavily modified them to the point it was almost in house and then coated them in 21K Gold, which mine is. Later towards the end they were coated in Nickle.
But unfortunately starting with the Mark 18 series and being cut off from ETA they now use Selita movements and modify those. They also lowered the retail price on them by over 500 dollars which I could never understand until I learned this little fact.
For some reason Pilot watches always spoke to me, so that's why I picked one up if I didn't get my UTC I was going to get a Mark series but refuse to get a new one at those prices and a Selita.
Luckily I think only the Mark series are the only ones with non in house movements that IWC produces today. What sucks is new your paying over 10K new if you want a in house movement.
It was the MkXV series produced from 98-04 as well as the UTC series. In 03-04 was the transitional change over to movements with Nickle plating instead of 21k Gold so some models where still Gold plated I'm guessing the used what movements they had already produced.
Its a nice watch, maybe not as nice as the Grosse Flieger by IWC, but affordable and quite good looking. I like that its slightly modernised and looks less tooly. For the real Beobachtungsuhrenlook the Laco original watches with 42 and 45mm are the way to go. If you have the wrist size. For my stick arms 40mm are enough…
I am just looking around about watches to learn and watch the variety of those beauties. Really good video, enjoyed it very much!
And because I am german: congrats about your pronunciation in general. But only one thing about the motto from the beginning, the german "mutated vovels" (? don't know the english term) are indeed kind of strange. You said "schon" and thats a bit funny, because "schon" and "schön" are both existing words in german, but with differen meanings:
schon = yet, schön = beautiful
Umlaut is understood in english (german here too). Noone expects them to get that right for a watch review.
of course not, but don't we all want to learn permanently? :)
Stowa needs to make this watch with a bracelet
Owned a Hamilton 47mm. Lovely watch, way too large and thick. Owned a Ventus Caspian. Same there, even if bronze was charming. Owned a Seiko SNZH13, but sold it after three years. That was my first Automatic. Still own a Citizen Promaster sky watch, which is indestructible, but a decent Flieger kept itching in the back of my head. Incoming now a Stowa Ikarus. It's a bit different, with the grey, but finally. Much nicer than their Laco and Archimede counterparts. Stowa is the bomb.
Stowa also offer a high level of customisation.
Nice German watch! :)
this is wonderful wtch
My dream collection includes the Hamilton 38 Intra-matic, the Tudor Black bay, the Junghans Chronoscope and this exact Stowa. It is far superior than the IWC because of the simple fact that the IWC is a luxury piece with a certain flash to it. This Stowa is all business, nothing other than the perfect tool watch. I would only get a manual wind if possible - right now it's only 36mm (too small, not flieger size at all) or it's a sub seconds dial - not my thing. The only other watches that might be considered on the same level design-wise (pure function) are for me the Laco Erbstück Memmingen or Padeborn . IMO they have a better tool style case, but the Stowa is more...normal for day-to-day use so...
FYI - you can absolutely get this exact model (40 mm) with a manual wind on their website! It's a 16 Euro upcharge for an ETA 2804-2 movement. I'm actually ordering one this week! 😁
I think it's pronounced "SHtoVa"
Right you are!
I got a Timex for 30 euros.
I had a Jörg Schauer watch. Kulisse Edition 10 Chronograph
hi, from stowa forum.
A) yes you need a flieger watch. B) i personally would go with LACO C) if you want to go "fake" vintage, checkout Laco's "Erbstück" series. :-D
Stowa has the bended lugs and hand polished case. Laco is more authentic to the design issued by RLM in 1940s... depends what you want to go for...beauty or historical design.
Nice watch, wear it in good health.
Nice and fun video, but I just had to mention, you pronounce it in the what you said how the russians would... ;) in most cases when there's an "ST" in German, the S is pronounced like the "sch" in german is...
I'm sorry guys, but flashing that IWC prince only highlighted the the difference in quality.