Ace Jewelers and Airain have teamed up to introduce the Type 20 ACE, a reimagined version of the iconic aviation watch that combines the heritage of military timepieces with modern design elements. This new model brings a fresh perspective to the Type 20, blending traditional craftsmanship with bold, contemporary features, making it a unique addition to the Airain collection. Unlike previous collaborations, the Type 20 ACE is a permanent collection piece, reflecting the strength of its design.
A Modern Take on Classic Aviation Design
The Type 20 ACE honors the legacy of the classic Type 20 aviation watch, while introducing a new aesthetic through its innovative use of color and detail. For the first time in Airain’s history, the watch features a silver-white dial, a bold shift from the brand’s usual offerings. Accentuated by striking signal orange elements, the dial introduces a vibrant twist inspired by rescue equipment and the Dutch national color, symbolizing both functionality and style.
The most distinctive feature is the roulette minute counter, which further adds to the modern aesthetic while staying true to the functional design ethos of aviation watches. These orange accents, along with the SuperLuminova Pantone 151C applied to the chronograph hands, ensure exceptional legibility even in low-light conditions, highlighting the practical and technical capabilities of the Type 20 ACE.
Honoring Heritage with the Flyback Chronograph
Despite its contemporary updates, the Type 20 ACE remains deeply rooted in the aviation heritage that defines the Airain brand. The watch retains the signature flyback chronograph function, a feature crucial to aviation timepieces, allowing for the rapid resetting and restarting of the chronograph without stopping it. This ensures precision and ease of use, making the watch both a nod to history and a functional tool for the modern user.
The hand-wound AM2 caliber, engineered specifically for the Type 20 Re-Edition, powers the chronograph. This movement reflects a commitment to historical accuracy while maintaining the precision expected in contemporary watchmaking. With a stainless steel case sized at 39.5mm, the proportions are faithful to the original Type 20, offering both vintage charm and modern durability.
A Collaboration Driven by Passion and Friendship
The creation of the Type 20 ACE was born out of a shared love for fine watchmaking between Alon Ben Joseph, co-owner of Ace Jewelers, and Tom van Wijlick, CEO of Airain. Their collaboration has been years in the making, built on a mutual respect for the history of the Type 20 and a desire to reinterpret it for a new generation.
“Pilot watches have always fascinated me, and the Airain Type 20 has long been on my wish list,” said Alon Ben Joseph. “When Tom revived the brand, we connected over our shared appreciation for its history. Over the years, we brainstormed how we could create a version that adds new elements while staying true to the original’s roots. The result is the Type 20 ACE, featuring a light-colored dial with orange accents, a design that stands apart from anything Airain has done before. While we initially envisioned it as a limited edition, Tom felt it was strong enough to be a permanent part of the Airain collection.”
Tom van Wijlick echoed this sentiment: “This project was driven by a shared passion for the Type 20’s history. We aimed to offer a modern interpretation of the watch that respects its military and aviation heritage without solely relying on vintage cues. Working with Ace Jewelers allowed us to stay true to Airain’s identity while introducing a fresh, contemporary design.”
Attention to Detail and Versatility
The Type 20 ACE offers versatility, coming with two straps—a robust leather strap for a more classic look and an orange NATO strap for a sportier feel. This flexibility ensures that the watch can be adapted to various styles and occasions, from formal settings to outdoor adventures.
The SuperLuminova BGW9 Grade X1 lume used on the numerals and hands ensures legibility in all conditions, further enhancing the practicality of this aviation-inspired timepiece. With a water resistance of 50 meters, the watch is designed for everyday wear, combining functionality with historical authenticity.
Availability and Pricing
The Type 20 ACE is now available as a permanent collection piece through Ace Jewelers and select Airain retailers, offering collectors a rare opportunity to own a distinctive version of the Type 20. The watch is priced at EUR 3,450 incl. VAT (EUR 2,852 excl. VAT).
Conclusion
The collaboration between Ace Jewelers and Airain has resulted in a unique and modern interpretation of the classic Type 20 aviation watch. The Type 20 ACE stands out with its striking silver-white dial and orange accents while maintaining the heritage and technical precision of the original. As a permanent part of the Airain collection, this timepiece offers collectors and aviation watch enthusiasts a chance to own a piece that respects its historical roots while embracing modern design.
For more information, visit Airain.com or AceJewelers.com.
