It all started with the Seagull 1963 reissue. My youtube was just flooded with those when it came out. I saw one in the metal, tried it on, And was like… I wish they’d make this in a “flieger style”. Then I saw the Stowa Flieger Chronograph, and the hunt was on! It was a good watch in terms of design and execution, but the problem for me was that it lacked the charm of the column wheel style movement of the 1963, plus I didn’t like how they removed most of the functionality of the movement they used just to achieve aesthetics. So I gave up the search. One night, I was looking for lumed day-date discs for my SKX mod project online. The site also sells watches that were mostly made in China. Then I saw this Escapement Time Flieger Chronograph that automatically ticked all the boxes. Unfortunately it was out of stock, so I went to a well known online seller where I found ones in stock. I pulled the trigger, USD259 gone and got a smile on my face when it arrived.

Case and Crystal:

The fully brushed stainless steel case is well finished and measures 40mm in diameter, 12mm thick, 20mm for the lug width, and 51mm lug to lug. Great dimensions! The lugs also curve down aggressively to accommodate wrists sizes less than 7 inches. The spec sheet says that the crystal is sapphire, with NO AR coating – also good for blinding people.

Dial and Hands:

The dial on the Escapement Time Flieger Chronograph is a Type A flieger dial with some numerals removed to accommodate the running seconds and 30-minute counter. All the hands are lumed with the hour and minute hands featuring a faux blued steel finish. All the hashes and numerals are lumed as well.

Movement:

The Seagull ST1901. Non hacking, running seconds with a 30 minute register. A column wheel chronograph with swiss origins (Venus 175) that is now owned and made by Seagull. It’s not an automatic but the case back says “Fleiger Automatic” *sighs

Strap and Wearability:

The IWC style pilot’s strap included is on the stiff side. It tapers from 20mm to 18mm. Although it fits the look of the dial and case, it feels cheap so I ordered a replacement online. What I liked was the pin and buckle, it has a brushed and polished finish to it. I don’t think most leather straps will fit the look of the dial. Only aviator styled leather straps, thick vintage inspired ones, and NATOs will suit the toolish look of the watch in my opinion.

Verdict:

If you can relate to my story, or just find that this watch is “cool” then go ahead and wear it. If you are an average person looking to own an affordable column wheel chronograph, get any watch that has the ST1901. What I learned from owning this Escapement Time Flieger Chronograph, is that you’ll come to appreciate any watch for what it is if you are really into the hobby of looking for that next timepiece.