Hanhart Preventor9 S

For watch enthusiasts, German watchmaker Hanhart is a name synonymous with precision and heritage. Founded in 1882 in the Black Forest, the company has built a reputation for crafting robust and reliable timepieces, particularly pilot's watches. Their instruments have adorned the wrists of aviators for over a century, conquering the skies and witnessing moments of both triumph and peril.

The Preventor9 S, Hanhart's latest offering, is a testament to this legacy. This meticulously crafted timepiece takes inspiration from a historic Hanhart model from the 1950s, evident in its classic pilot's watch design. The most noticeable feature is the small seconds dial positioned at 9 o'clock, a detail originally incorporated into the chronograph calibre 42. This design element adds a touch of vintage charm to the Preventor9 S, while retaining the functionality that pilots have come to rely on from Hanhart.



The Preventor9 S boasts a 40mm stainless steel case with a black PVD coating. This utilitarian finish gives the watch a contemporary, tactical feel. A pilot's watch needs a clear and legible dial for quick time checks in high-pressure situations, and the Preventor9 S delivers in this regard. The black dial features crisp white minute markers and bright Arabic numerals, all generously coated with Super-LumiNova® C3 luminous material for exceptional nighttime visibility. The cathedral hands, also coated with Super-LumiNova® C3, echo the classic pilot's watch design aesthetic.

The watch's functionality extends beyond aesthetics. The Preventor9 S is equipped with the reliable SW 200 automatic movement, a caliber built by the renowned Swiss watchmaker Dubois Dépraz. This movement boasts a 38-hour power reserve, ensuring the watch keeps ticking during long flights or adventures.



A vital aspect of any pilot's watch is its durability. The Preventor9 S is built to withstand the rigors of aerial travel. The screw-down case back and the anti-reflective sapphire crystal provide exceptional protection against scratches and the elements, while the 10 bar water resistance rating makes it suitable for withstanding splashes and rain.

The Preventor9 S is completed by a comfortable black calfskin strap with white contrast stitching. The strap's Alcantara lining adds a touch of luxury and ensures comfortable wear throughout the day.

The Preventor9 S's 40 mm stainless steel case boasts a sleek black PVD coating. This robust finish protects the underlying metal and lends the watch a purposeful, almost tactical aesthetic. This size strikes a perfect balance between legibility and wearing comfort, making it suitable for various wrist sizes.



The watch's oversized crown immediately catches the eye. A hallmark of classic pilot's watches, this design provides easy operation even when wearing gloves. It's also emblazoned with the iconic Hanhart "h", an enduring symbol of the brand's precision and heritage. The screw-down case back protects the movement and bears the watch's unique serial number, ensuring each of these limited-edition timepieces is one-of-a-kind.

The dial remains the focal point of any pilot's watch and the Preventor9 S excels in this department. Set against the stark black backdrop are bold Arabic numerals and a clear minute track, ensuring split-second legibility. At night, these elements come alive with a vibrant glow, thanks to the Super-LumiNova® C3 coating. The cathedral hands, true to the historic model's style, are treated with the same material, allowing for accurate timekeeping in any light condition. Hanhart even includes a thoughtful design element: the minute hand bends slightly at its tip, a clever technique used to prevent parallax errors when reading the time from different angles.



Within this robust case lies the Hanhart HAN4112 automatic movement. Built upon the tried-and-tested Sellita SW 200, a widely respected Swiss caliber, and modified by Dubois Dépraz, this movement offers reliability and a functional set of complications. Pilots will appreciate the hacking seconds function, allowing for precise time synchronization. Boasting a 38-hour power reserve, the Preventor9 S won't let you down even if it's left idle for a short period.

The standard black calfskin strap with contrast white stitching adds to the vintage-inspired charm of the Preventor9 S. The supple leather and Alcantara underside of the strap ensure all-day comfort. A black PVD-coated pin buckle completes the strap, maintaining the tactical style of the case, while providing a secure fit. The 20mm lug width gives the Preventor9 S versatility, allowing you to experiment with a range of straps to personalize your timepiece.

It's in the minute details that the Hanhart Preventor9 S truly shines. The slight curvature of the anti-reflective sapphire crystal enhances readability and adds subtle character to the watch's profile. And, while the 10 bar water resistance rating doesn't make this a dedicated dive watch, it does provide peace of mind for pilots facing inclement weather or adventurous souls who aren't afraid of a little rain.



With its production strictly limited to 100 pieces, the Hanhart Preventor9 S is an exclusive timepiece that collectors will prize. It's a testament to the brand's continued dedication to upholding the highest standards of pilot's watch design, blending historic influences with the needs of the modern wearer.

The Hanhart Preventor9 S is the perfect timepiece for those who appreciate a robust mechanical watch with a link to aviation's legacy. Whether you're an actual pilot, a seasoned collector, or simply a lover of well-made, purposeful timepieces, the Preventor9 S won't disappoint. It's a watch that tells a story, one of history, precision, and the unwavering spirit of adventure.