The Nieuport 28: America’s First Fighter Pilots and Their Flying Legends
In the spring of 1918, as World War I raged on the Western Front, the United States Air Service took to the skies in combat for the first time. The aircraft that carried them into history was the French-designed Nieuport 28, a nimble fighter plane that became a symbol of American aviation’s early days. Sopwith Watch Company has paid homage to this historic aircraft with its Nieuport 28 Limited Edition, a timepiece that captures the spirit of those pioneering aviators.
A Symbol of American Valor
The Nieuport 28 was a lightweight, maneuverable fighter, powered by the Gnome Monosoupape 9N engine. It was fast, agile, and capable of engaging enemy planes with deadly precision. American pilots, flying under the newly formed U.S. Air Service, quickly adapted to this aircraft, scoring the first air-to-air victories for the United States in April 1918. The Nieuport 28 became an icon, representing the bravery and skill of America’s first fighter pilots.
Crafting a Timepiece with History
Sopwith Watch Company’s Nieuport 28 Limited Edition is more than just a watch—it’s a piece of history. The entire watch case is crafted from the original steel of a 1918 Gnome Monosoupape engine, the very engine that powered the Nieuport 28 into battle. The molten steel was refined and cast into sheets, preserving every ounce of this rare metal. Each case was then forged using a proprietary method, ensuring that no material was wasted and that the historical integrity was maintained.
Design Inspired by the Skies
The design of the Nieuport 28 Limited Edition draws heavily from the aircraft itself. The hour and minute hands are shaped like the altimeter needle found in the Nieuport’s cockpit, while the Camouflage Green dial and Fjord Blue hands mirror the color scheme used by the 95th Aero Squadron, one of the first American units to fly the Nieuport 28. The GMT chapter ring is angled at 25 degrees, reminiscent of early 20th-century aviation instruments, and is framed in bronze—a nod to the tradition of craftsmanship that defined that era.
Built for Modern Explorers
While the Nieuport 28 Limited Edition is steeped in history, it’s also designed for today’s adventurers. The watch features a shock-resistant Swiss GMT automatic movement, providing accuracy and reliability in any environment. The bronze compass bezel with a sapphire insert offers a functional and stylish way to establish a directional bearing, while the multilayered Swiss X1 grade lume ensures visibility in all lighting conditions. With magnetic protection up to 20,000 Gauss and water resistance to 200 meters, this timepiece is ready for any journey.
Conclusion
The Nieuport 28 Limited Edition by Sopwith Watch Company is a tribute to the courage and innovation of America’s first fighter pilots. By incorporating materials from the original aircraft into the design, Sopwith has created a watch that is not only a masterpiece of horology but also a living connection to a pivotal moment in history. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates fine craftsmanship, the Nieuport 28 Limited Edition is a timepiece that will inspire you every time you wear it.
