Airain Celebrates 70 Years Of The Type 20 With The New Horizon Blue Edition
The Type 20 chronograph holds a special place in watchmaking history, originally developed for the French military in the years following World War II. To mark the 70th anniversary of this legendary pilot’s watch, Airain introduces a new version — the Type 20 70 ANS, featuring a distinctive Horizon Blue dial that pays tribute to the model’s aviation roots.
A Heritage Design Refined for the Present
The Airain Type 20 70 ANS preserves the proportions and aesthetics that define the original Type 20 while incorporating subtle updates for modern wearability. The 39 mm stainless steel case is complemented by a 39.50 mm friction-rotating 12-hour bezel, maintaining the utilitarian character that made the Type 20 a trusted tool for aviators. With a lug-to-lug length of 47.50 mm and a thickness of 14.97 mm, the watch strikes a balance between period-correct authenticity and contemporary comfort. Water resistance is rated at 50 meters, sufficient for everyday protection.
The Horizon Blue Dial
The highlight of this anniversary edition is undoubtedly its new Horizon Blue dial — a muted, elegant shade reminiscent of blued steel. The grainy surface texture enhances legibility while giving the watch a rugged, vintage feel. The beige Arabic numerals and matching hands introduce a subtle warmth to the composition without resorting to exaggerated patina effects. The result is a clean, balanced dial that honors the model’s heritage while exuding timeless appeal.
A Modern Flyback Movement
Inside the Type 20 70 ANS beats the Caliber AM2, developed by Manufacture AMT, the high-end division of Sellita. This manual-winding flyback chronograph is based on the reliable SW500 architecture and delivers a 63-hour power reserve with a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The sapphire case back reveals the movement, offering a glimpse into the mechanical craftsmanship that powers this aviation-inspired chronograph. The inclusion of a flyback function — a signature feature of all authentic Type 20 watches — allows pilots to reset and restart the chronograph instantly, underscoring the model’s tool-watch heritage.
Finishing Touches and Availability
The watch is paired with a beige suede strap featuring a blue lining, perfectly complementing the Horizon Blue dial. True to Airain’s philosophy of producing in limited runs, the Type 20 70 ANS will be made in small batches, ensuring exclusivity while not being tied to a specific numbered edition.
The Airain Type 20 70 ANS is priced at €3,850 (including VAT), with deliveries scheduled to begin in early April.
Conculsion
In essence, the Airain Type 20 70 ANS embodies the spirit of mid-century aviation while celebrating seven decades of horological heritage. With its refined Horizon Blue dial, faithful design, and robust flyback chronograph movement, it stands as a fitting tribute to one of the most enduring pilot’s watches ever created.
Read more on www.airain.com.
General Specifications:
Brand: Airain
Model: Type 20 70 ANS
Dial: Blue
Lume: Super-LumiNova
Case Material: 316L stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 39.50 mm Diameter, 14.77 mm thickness, 47.70 mm lug-to-lug
Crystal: Double-domed sapphire glass
Case Back: Stainless steel
Water Resistance: 50 Meters
Strap: Beige suede leather strap with ecru stitching, blue lining and a stainless steel pin buckle
Calibre: AM2
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, flyback chronograph
Winding: Hand-wound
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 Vph)
Jewels: 23
Power Reserve: 63 Hours
Price: € 3,850
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: No
