The Breitling Watch Source Forums

O.K lets be honest pilots.Do any of you guys really use the bezel slide rule to make calculations when you are flying??? Is it just cool to have one or do you sometimes need it?? cj

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CJ

I'm not a pilot myself, but from what I have ever seen written on this subject, then it's definitely a case of "for show only" when it comes to actually using it in a flight situation nowadays.

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Driver8

Site Moderator

They used it before todays instruments were invented.

Would there ever be a situation where you may need it in an emergency?My son is going to be a helicopter pilot for the Marines and I am deciding which watch to buyhim as a gift.

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CJ

CJ,

Semper Fi, I was in the Marines as well. I was only a grunt, not a helicopter pilot, but I think its great that you are getting him a Ling. Even if the slide rule is not commonly used today during flight, its a cool way to tie in his future career into something he will certainly cherish for many years to come on many levels. A gift from his dad in the form of an excellent timepiece that also has its roots in the aviation field. Id say its a homerun regardless if the slide rule has become obselete. Good luck with your decision. Just keep in mind, any Breitling is a good Breitling.

For a helicopter pilot perhaps something like the Airwolf or B1 would be a great watch. I think they epitomize the ultimate in tool watches and would seem to make a more rugged watch for someone who is sure to need a tough timepiece. Either of these watches could actually stand the abuse of the field.

If the watch is not going to be worn in the field then you could look at the navitimer range for a slide rule. I love these watches and think they make great pieces for everyday wear or even formal wear. However these have water resistance only around 30 meters, which might not be sufficient for an active marine.

As was said above, you can't really go wrong with a ling. Good Luck!

Can't gp wrong with an emergency.

When I first bought mine I used it. It's actually easier to use my E6B. I only use mine as a backup.

~Brian

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Breitling Super Avenger
Fortis Flieger Chronograph
Rolex Submariner Date

I used it for flying school purposes, but only on the ground and never in the air. After receiving the license, I never used it again, a calculater and a kneepad, that gives the necessary figures is a lot exacter.

For a pilot of a marine helicopter, I would recommend something waterproof with a chronograph function.....or a B1/Airwolf.

BG
Thomas

Hi, to answer the original post, yes..Depending. I use the bezel for fuel calculations so I can use the timer on the watch to remind me when to perform certain actions with the fuel system. Also to calculate temperature between *C & *F. Converting nautical miles to statuate miles(& vice versa) or to KMs for PAs to passengers, distance reminder for interest along the way & finally while sitting up there, working out pay increases or tax rates on salary. Outside of the job I can work out sale prices my wife's requests etc. I wear an airwolf, & have had it for about a year now(grey face, pro2 bracelet). Brilliant watch, attracts attention a fair bit from everyone(including the flight attendants ). The bezel however is next to useless at night though without a lot of light(I use a calculator at night). With normal daylight even in shade or indoors with office quality light there's no problem reading the bezel. You quickly learn where to look for the tiny numbers on the inner dial. I really do use the bezel daily at work & find it more convenient than grabbing a calculator for many functions.(conversions are sooo much easier with the slide rule). By the way I'm a Boeing 737 captain. You would want Chuck Yeager eyesight to be able to read the bezel in a light aircraft though, unless it was dead smooth. Hope this helps. Did I mention I love the watch? Cheers