One of the most fun watches in my collection is a vintage HMT Pilot watch that I bought this spring (2025) from a seller on Etsy. It was an inexpensive purchase and definitely something in the fun and interesting category.
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| My refurbished HMT Pilot watch undergoes scrutiny |
HMT Watch Features
The watch features a manually wound movement. In this era of cell phones and reliable quartz movements, it may seem like a throwback. But, if you are into watches, that is part of the charm. You get to interact with your watch, look at it, and wind it.
HMT Pilot Dimensions
As with many vintage watches, this HMT Pilot watch is a little small. I measure 34mm in diameter not counting the crown. It is 10mm thick and measures about 42mm from lug-to-lug. However, I don't mind a small, lightweight, watch from time to time.
HMT Pilot Refurbishment & Construction
When it comes to a refurbished watch, it's more about re-construction than construction. You'll want to ready Etsy listings very closely to understand what you are getting when it comes to these watches. As a refurbished watch, my HMT Pilot has a bright blue aftermarket dial, a clear and unblemished replacement crystal, new hands, and an inexpensive leather strap. I replaced the strap with a more generously-sized silicone strap which fits the character of a pilot watch.
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| HMT Pilot Aftermarket Dial Detail |
The stainless steel case and watch movement are original, but they have benefited from professional attention. The case has been cleaned up and polished. The movement has been serviced and oiled. This watch uses an HMT 0231 watch movement which is basically a copy of Citizen 0201movement. It has 17 jewels and uses Citizen's para shock design to help minimize any damage from accidental drops.
Indian Refurb Watch Performance
This watch runs and keeps time. Unlike some vintage Seiko and Orient watches, you don't have to shake this watch to keep it running. You just have to wind it and it will run for quite a long time. I realize "quite" is not a scientific term, but basically, if you wind it up at bed time, it will run well into the next day.
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| The Stainless Steel Case of this vintage HMT Pilot can ward off baby T-Rex bites |
From an accuracy perspective, the watch keeps time practically for the day you wear it. However, it runs a bit fast. After a day, you may find it to be running 4 or 5 minutes fast. In a recent test, it picked up about 2 minutes in 2 1/2 hours.
Overall Review
I like this HMT Pilot watch. For only $37 (when I bought it), it's a practical way to have a vintage feel and experience without fungus, rust, or haziness of many old watches.
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