Founded in 1989, Luminox has solidified its position as a pioneering force in the watch industry, known for its innovative use of self-powered illumination technology. Originating from a collaboration between Barry Cohen, a Swiss watch industry veteran, and Richard Timbo, a former lighting engineer for NASA, Luminox introduced its signature light technology to watches, providing unparalleled visibility in low-light conditions. Initially catering to the needs of elite military units, Luminox watches quickly gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts and the Military. Later on a collaboration between the U.S. Air Force and Luminox would emerge when a request for a highly visible timekeeping solution for both pilots and special operations forces soldiers. Luminox would rise to the occasion with its cutting-edge illumination technology. This collaboration birthed the iconic “Air” series, featuring watches equipped with Tritium gas tubes that provide constant illumination without the need for an external light source. Trusted by pilots and personnel in critical missions, these timepieces stand as a testament to the enduring partnership between Luminox and the US Air Force. This brings us to the legendary Luminox F-117 Nighthawk, a plane that would truly change the term “stealth” in regards to aviation and radar detection.
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The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk emerged from the shadows of secrecy in the 1980s as a groundbreaking stealth aircraft, revolutionizing aerial warfare. Developed by Lockheed Skunk Works under utmost secrecy, the F-117 Nighthawk was designed to evade enemy radar detection, employing advanced composite materials and a unique faceted shape to deflect radar signals. Its first combat deployment during the Gulf War in 1991 showcased its unparalleled precision strike capabilities, striking deep behind enemy lines with remarkable accuracy. Despite its angular and unconventional appearance, the F-117 proved its effectiveness, paving the way for the development of subsequent stealth aircraft. With its retirement from active service in 2008, the F-117 Nighthawk left an indelible mark on aviation history as a symbol of technological innovation and military prowess. If you are interested in hearing more about the development of the F-117 Nighthawk, I highly recommend reading by Ben Rich.
So what would be a better military airframe to base the design of a subdued tactical watch from than the F-117 Nighthawk? Good Question cause I’m not sure but that’s exactly what the team at Luminox did.
“Luminox answered the U.S. Air Force’s call for an exceptional timepiece. Introducing our F-117 Nighthawk
GMT 6420 series, a legendary partnership with Lockheed Martin® fueling a collection tailored for pilots. Experience the thrill of the new collection, born from the acclaimed 6420 series. Luminox takes flight once again with the F-117 Nighthawk
I remember back in 2010 I found myself scrolling through the Luminox Website on my high school school-provided laptop and drooling over all of the incredible-looking watches they had. I can specifically remember looking at the F-117 Nighthawk 6440 and thinking how I hoped that someday I could be able to afford it. Well fast forward 14 years and since my birthday was a few weeks ago, I decided this was the time to buy my dream watch! I know the styling will not be for everyone but for an aviation nerd like myself, I think this is a remarkable-looking watch that captures the essence of the high-tech fighter jet it is named after. All of the sharp angles on the crown are homages to the radar cross-section defeating panels on the F-117 that made it so stealthy but also nearly impossible to fly without avionics. Speaking of the crown, you can get this watch cased in either Aluminum or a CARBINOX material. But what is CARBINOX? In 2006, Luminox introduced an innovative carbon compound material, which “consists of carbon long bars or carbon powder in varying percentages depending on the model”. With CARBONOX, Luminox produces timepieces that have a very rigid and hard finish, taking the watch’s overall durability to a whole new level. While CARBINOX is cool and actually cheaper than aluminum, I opted for the Aluminum case as I like my watches to have a little more weight to them. Stay tuned for a full review of the Luminox F-117 Nighthawk 6440 Watch as I hope to have a full writeup on it in the next year or so!
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