One Heritage. Two Legends.
The Airain Type 20 and Type 21 chronographs are more than watches — they’re precision instruments forged for flight. Issued to pilots of the French Army’s ALAT and beyond, these legendary timepieces combine technical mastery, military-grade function and historical credibility.
Engineered for Mission Timing
“Retour-en-vol wasn’t just convenient — it was survival equipment.”
These watches feature a flyback chronograph with column-wheel mechanism, bi-compax luminous dials, oversized pushers and crowns, and pilot-focused bezels for fast, accurate in-flight use.
Built Like the Originals. With Today’s Precision.
Faithful to the original military specs, yet upgraded with a modern flyback movement, extended power reserve and customizable aesthetics.
A Legacy of Service
“Not a homage. A continuation of service.”
Airain was one of the few original suppliers commissioned to produce the Type 20 for French military pilots. Today’s editions continue that tradition through faithful dimensions, technical accuracy, and robust heritage storytelling.
Official Type 21 specification issued by the French Ministry of Defense – April 1956
Type 20 vs. Type 21: The Difference
The Type 20 is based on the original 1950s specification for French military pilots — a robust, flyback-equipped chronograph built for precision in the sky.
The Type 21 reflects a 1956 update by the French Ministry of Defence, aimed at improving durability and serviceability. Ours is inspired by a 1960s vintage model discovered at Sotheby’s, featuring a glossy black dial, ‘Old Radium’ lume and the historic Airain crown logo.
Both models uphold our legacy of mission-ready watchmaking — each with its own chapter in aviation history.
