Flyback Watches

Flyback watches facilitate the instant resetting of their chronograph function with the singular press of a button. This negates the need to stop and reset the mechanism separately, making it very useful for timing successive events (e.g. within aviation, motorsports or athletic events) without interruption.

• Durability & accuracy: Read a wide range of watch reviews to find a reliable model known for its durability (e.g. made from stainless steel or titanium). Accuracy is also very important with such a complex mechanism.
• A good power reserve: A longer power reserve (the amount of time a watch can run on a full winding) means less frequent winding.
• A clear dial: Flybacks are often used in fields that require timing successive events, quickly. That’s why a clear dial is key.

The pioneers of the flyback complication are the Swiss watchmakers, Longines. Invented in 1925, flyback watches proved particularly useful for pilots. Here’s a more detailed timeline:

1. 1925: Longines developed its first flyback wristwatch using the calibre 13.33Z movement.
2. 1935: Longines filed a patent for the function.
3. 1936: The patent was granted and the iconic 13ZN calibre was released.