Navitec Watch has a rich aviation legacy, can you tell us how the idea of creating watches with interchangeable graduated bezels first came about?

The origins of Navitec Watch trace back to 1975, when my father René Attias, a passionate watch designer and licensed flight instructor, started combining his two loves: aviation and horology. From 1975 to 1992, he developed various successful watch models, and also taught flying on weekends. By the time I joined him in 2001, it felt only natural to deepen that aviation connection. My father had even patented a unique system for aviation graduation on interchangeable bezels so building a brand around that was the obvious next step.

What inspired you to focus exclusively on the aviation sector, and how has that shaped the brand over the decades? What makes Navitec Watch unique compared to other aviation-inspired brands?

Our heritage is deeply embedded in aviation. It's not just an aesthetic for us it's our DNA. While many brands offer aviation-inspired designs, we have remained technically grounded. For instance, we even developed a ladies’ collection that retained aviation roots but with a distinct character  something rarely seen in this niche.

Could you walk us through the design and functionality of your interchangeable graduated bezels?

Absolutely. These bezels act as auxiliary navigational tools, ideal for calculating estimated time of arrival, flight durations, and speeds ranging from 80 to 150 nautical miles per hour. They were designed to be intuitive tools for pilots. We also provide a detailed user manual for those who want a more technical breakdown.

How do you balance heritage and innovation when designing new models?

Our design process is rooted in functionality, ergonomics, and visibility principles my father instilled in his student pilots and in our workshop. Each model reflects that ethos: clear dials, pilot-friendly features, and timeless durability.

Your watches are designed in Paris and manufactured in Switzerland, how do you ensure quality control across this cross-border production?

We follow rigorous quality control at every stage — from the case and dial to the hands and finishing. Each element is monitored closely to maintain the high standards our customers have come to expect from Navitec Watch.

The luxury watch industry is incredibly competitive. What are the biggest challenges Navitec Watch faces as an independent European brand?

As of now, the brand is on standby, and we are actively in discussions with investors to relaunch Navitec Watch with an entirely new collection. The challenge lies in staying true to our DNA while scaling in a competitive space. But that’s also where our uniqueness lies authenticity can’t be replicated.

Being an official supplier to CIRUS AIRCRAFT® and DIAMOND AIRCRAFT® is a huge validation. How did these collaborations come about?

Our debut product, the onboard chronograph T1 (available here: Chronographe de Bord T1), became a game-changer. At that time, we were among the very few manufacturers of such aviation-specific instruments. These aircraft companies found us  not the other way around because of the precision and practicality our instruments offered.

How does Navitec Watch position itself against larger aviation-themed brands like Breitling or Bell & Ross?

While those brands enjoy massive commercial reach, Navitec Watch is rooted in real cockpit functionality. Our instruments are not just aesthetic homages to flight they are born inside the cockpit, shaped by real aviation needs. That authenticity sets us apart.

How are you approaching digital marketing and social media to increase brand visibility?

Currently, our focus is on restructuring and relaunching the brand. But as part of our strategy, we will certainly leverage digital platforms to engage both pilots and watch lovers. Expect a stronger digital presence in the near future.

What does the future hold for Navitec Watch? Are there new complications, designs, or collaborations on the horizon?

Yes, we have several new designs in the pipeline, though we haven’t announced a launch date yet. Rest assured, these future models will continue to reflect our aviation-first philosophy while adding new creative dimensions.

Could we see Navitec Watch expand into connected or smart aviation tools, or will you stay focused on mechanical timepieces?

We plan to stay within the realm of mechanical timepieces, but always with a firm grounding in navigational tools. The onboard chronograph T1 is a perfect example of our commitment to traditional instruments with functional utility.

Finally, what message would you like to share with young pilots and watch enthusiasts discovering Navitec Watch for the first time?

Do your checklist meticulously, always check the weather forecast, and fly safe. And when you’re ready to add an aviation tool to your wrist keep an eye on our website. We often have exclusive offers, and I’m always happy to chat directly at david@navitec.fr.

For nearly half a century, Navitec Watch has fused the worlds of aviation and horology with precision, passion, and innovation. Known for its interchangeable graduated bezels and onboard chronographs, this French-designed and Swiss-made brand has served not only aviation enthusiasts but also leading aircraft manufacturers such as CIRUS AIRCRAFT® and DIAMOND AIRCRAFT®. We sat down with David Attias, son of founder René Attias and the driving force behind Navitec Watch’s new chapter, to explore the brand’s rich legacy and its exciting future