Aerowatch Celebrates 115 Years of Watchmaking with the Milan Pocket Watch
Swiss watchmaker Aerowatch, based in Saignelégier, is celebrating its 115th anniversary this year with a creation that pays tribute to its heritage while offering a modern take on the pocket watch. Named Milan, this limited edition of 115 pieces revisits a classic format while incorporating contemporary elements inspired by the wristwatch collection of the same name.
In a market dominated by wristwatches and smartwatches, this bold proposition confirms Aerowatch’s determination to preserve Swiss watchmaking tradition while adapting it to today’s aesthetic codes.
A pocket watch with an urban edge
Aerowatch draws inspiration from the clean lines and industrial design that have made the Milan collection such a success. Unlike traditional pocket watches, often ornate in style, the Milan adopts a more minimalist, modern look—appealing both to collectors and to enthusiasts drawn to watches with a strong identity.
The satin-finished stainless-steel case, with an imposing 48 mm diameter, gives it a confident presence while ensuring the robustness and durability suited to everyday use. Far from being a mere display piece, this pocket watch was designed to be worn and used.
Two sapphire crystals, front and back, protect the dial and the movement, providing optimal scratch resistance and a clear view of the internal components.
A Swiss mechanical movement in the spotlight
At the heart of the watch beats the AERO DB9 SWISS calibre, a hand-wound mechanical movement with 17 jewels and a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz).
The attention to detail is reflected in the movement finishing, featuring an exclusive sandblasted decoration and blued screws—an aesthetic signature of traditional Swiss watchmaking.
The display remains classic, with indications for hours, minutes and seconds, aided by a dial inspired by fir-tree hands—a nod to the Jura landscapes where the Aerowatch manufacture is based.
Optimised legibility and modern finishing touches
While the Milan retains a timeless look, it also incorporates modern technologies to enhance everyday usability. The hands and indices are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring excellent legibility even in low-light conditions.
Water resistance is rated at 3 ATM (30 metres), meaning the watch can withstand splashes and occasional exposure to water, although it is not recommended for use underwater.
Why a pocket watch in 2025?
Aerowatch’s decision to offer a pocket watch may come as a surprise at a time when smartwatches and minimalist timepieces dominate the market. Yet this choice is part of a broader effort to celebrate watchmaking heritage.
Historically, pocket watches were long synonymous with elegance and distinction. Today, they are finding a new audience—enthusiasts looking for an alternative to conventional wristwatches, as well as collectors and devotees of traditional watchmaking.
A limited edition that heightens its exclusivity
Produced in just 115 pieces, the Milan positions itself as an exclusive timepiece aimed at connoisseurs. This limited run, matching the brand’s 115 years of history, gives it particular appeal for those seeking rare, emblematic watches.
Available exclusively through Aerowatch retail points, this limited series is aimed at watch lovers who want to add a distinctive piece to their collection, as well as those looking to reconnect with a more traditional way of telling time.
Aerowatch: a watchmaking house devoted to its heritage
Founded in 1910, Aerowatch is a family-run company that has weathered the decades while maintaining uninterrupted watch production. Located in Saignelégier, in the canton of Jura, the manufacture has built its reputation on its commitment to the values of quality, precision and Swiss craftsmanship.
While the brand is known for its wristwatches with classic and contemporary influences, it has never stopped producing pocket watches, thereby perpetuating a tradition that is gradually disappearing.
With the Milan, Aerowatch shows that this format can still appeal to an audience seeking authenticity and exclusivity.
Technical specifications of the Milan – Ref. 50829 AA05
- Movement: AERO DB9 SWISS hand-wound mechanical
- Frequency: 21,600 vibrations/hour (3 Hz)
- Number of jewels: 17
- Movement finishing: exclusive sandblasted decoration, blued screws
- Case: satin-finished stainless steel, 48 mm diameter
- Crystal: sapphire front and back
- Dial: fir-tree hand inspiration
- Legibility: hands and indices coated with Super-LumiNova
- Water resistance: 3 ATM (30 metres)
- Limited edition: 115 pieces
