M-1 Blackbird

From Aera Instruments

A field watch for today. The M-1 Blackbird takes the archetypal field watch of the 20th century and reinvents it with a minimal brushed PVD case, hand-applied Globolight™ numerals and our signature domed, one-piece dial. A contemporary update on the classic military design, it has an understated, stealthy look. Like its namesake, it flies under the radar. Field watches have long been relied on by those on the ground, in the sea or in the air. They are durable tools, built to withstand whatever the day throws at you. This is what the M-1 Blackbird is all about. It’s a contemporary, functional bit of kit, built to last and designed to accompany you on adventures big and small. It’s an analogue tool, engineered from the best materials we could find. There’s the 39mm case, our smallest ever, which is made from our 904L stainless steel. Much harder to machine than regular 316L steel, it’s more durable and resistant to corrosion, making it the obvious choice for a tool watch, despite the extra work. We’ve then given it a black PVD coating as well as a brushed finish, for that sleek, tactical look. This makes the M-1 Blackbird particularly easy to wear, whether as part of a monochrome look or as the muted finishing touch to tailoring. Like the heritage military-issued pieces it’s inspired by, it’s powered by a manual winding movement. The elabore grade Sellita calibre has a 42 hour power reserve and is known for its reliability in all conditions. It’s housed underneath our signature one-piece, dished dial, which helps give the M-1 its contemporary feel. The small seconds sub-dial combines with the outer railroad track for that classic field watch design, while the large numerals and subtle, blue lacquered detailing help elevate the military-inspired look. This is furthered by the hand-applied Super-LumiNova® on hands, markers and crown pip, as well as the track on the sub-dial. The numerals and Aera logo meanwhile are hand-applied and cut from solid blocks of Globolight. When the lights go out the watch glows bright blue in the dark, with the logo shining bright white. The M-1 Blackbird comes on an integrated smooth black Italian leather strap with black stitching and a 904L stainless steel buckle. In addition, you will receive a complimentary integrated grey suede strap with a 904L stainless steel buckle. Both straps feature a quick release mechanism for easy switching customisation. A handmade black pebble grain Italian leather pouch also accompanies every watch.