When it comes to truly functional analog tool watches, the Citizen Promaster Navihawk A-T holds a special place in the niche it was created for.
Inspired by fighter jet cockpits, the Navihawk series combines serious functionality with a robust, aggressive design that meets the demands of professional pilots. The new limited edition Citizen Promaster Navihawk A-T (AT8220-55W) brings a vibrant color palette to the lineup, inspired by the ephemeral hues of the aurora borealis.
Inspiration from the Northern Lights: Play of Light and Color
The aurora borealis is a mesmerizing sight, even at lower latitudes where only faint shades of green and purple are barely visible in the night sky. However, flying at an altitude of 12,000 meters over the Arctic with a view of the atmosphere illuminated by colorful lights is a completely different sensation. The night sky is illuminated by curtains of green, purple, and pink. The decision to style the Navihawk in iridescent shades inspired by the northern lights will resonate with anyone fortunate enough to witness this phenomenon, whether from the ground or a plane's cockpit.
Case Design and Dimensions: Balance of Functionality and Comfort
The Citizen Navihawk A-T is primarily a navigational tool, and space is needed to accommodate a large amount of information. The stainless steel case is 48 mm in diameter. Despite its impressive size, the watch remains comfortable to wear thanks to relatively short, curved lugs and a 22 mm wide strap. The matte finish of the case extends to the three-link stainless steel bracelet, equipped with a folding clasp with a hidden button. The rounded links provide a comfortable fit on the wrist, and the bracelet gives the watch versatility and elegance, easily transitioning from aviation tasks to everyday urban style.
Navigational Features: From Compass to Internal Logarithmic Scale
The functionality of the Navihawk begins with a rotating bezel made of engraved steel with a compass, located atop the case, making basic navigation tasks easier. Under the sapphire crystal, the dial becomes significantly more informative. The internal rotating bezel with a logarithmic scale allows for tracking fuel consumption (fuel per mile), performing speed and distance calculations, and converting units of measurement (e.g., miles to kilometers).
While such features may seem excessive for most users, the primary goal of the Navihawk is to be a reliable navigational tool for pilots. Despite modern navigation equipment in airplanes, having a backup device on the wrist provides additional peace of mind. As the old saying goes, "one is none, and two is one," and redundancy at 12,000 meters above ground is never superfluous.
Dial Design: Aviation Motifs and Readability
At the center of the Navihawk dial are sub-dials shaped like trapezoids, reminiscent of the heads-up display (HUD) of modern fighter jets. A horizontal line running through the dial enhances the aviation theme of the watch. These sub-dials provide chronograph functions with the ability to track time up to 24 hours.
The sub-dials at the 6 and 12 o'clock positions perform additional functions. The indicator at 12 o'clock is used to display chronograph minutes, power reserve, and daylight saving time. The sub-dial at 6 o'clock shows 1/20th of a second and includes a day of the week and radio signal control indicator. Switching between functions is done by pressing a single button.
To ensure unparalleled accuracy, the Navihawk A-T is equipped with the Eco-Drive H804 movement, synchronized with atomic clocks. This caliber is ideal for pilot watches as it supports time synchronization across 26 time zones, marked by cities on the inner bezel ring. The Eco-Drive technology eliminates the worry of replacing batteries, as the movement is powered by any light source. Additionally, the watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters, making it a reliable companion for any adventure.
Conclusion: Reliable and Functional Watches for Professionals and Enthusiasts
Whether piloting a Boeing 787 Dreamliner across the Atlantic or searching for a reliable chronograph with world time function and additional capabilities, the Citizen Promaster Navihawk A-T (AT8220-55W) will meet these requirements. The limited series is produced in only 2800 pieces and is priced at approximately $850 USD.
Main Advantages of the Citizen Promaster Navihawk A-T:
- Design inspired by the northern lights with color gradients
- 48 mm stainless steel case and comfortable bracelet
- Rotating compass bezel for navigation
- Internal logarithmic bezel for fuel, speed, and distance calculations
- Chronograph with time display, power reserve, and radio signal
- Eco-Drive H804 movement with atomic synchronization and support for 26 time zones
- 200 meters water resistance for any conditions
The Citizen Promaster Navihawk A-T is an excellent choice for those who value precision, reliability, and functionality in aviation watches with a unique design solution.