In homage to the indomitable spirit of legendary pilot Major Brian Shul, the limited-edition Ball Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT Sled Driver Black/Blue - Ref. DG2018C-S17C-BK emerges as a beacon of perseverance and technological prowess. This timepiece, welcomed into the BALL Explorers Club, pays tribute to Shul's incredible journey—from overcoming near-fatal wartime injuries to piloting the SR-71 Blackbird, the fastest and highest-flying aircraft ever built.
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Ball Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT Sled Driver - Bracelet - Ltd Ed 1990pcs Ref. DG2018C-S17C-BK
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The Ball Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT Sled Driver Ref. DG2018C-S17C-BK, weighing approximately 130g, stands as a testament to Ball's commitment to precision and craftsmanship. Designed with the spirit of ultimate stealth and extreme visibility, the AeroGMT Sled Driver features a beautifully curved sapphire bezel adorned with micro gas lights for 24-hour GMT reading in absolute darkness.
Powering the watch is BALL's caliber RR1201-C, which is based on a ETA 2893-2. The movement, which has a 42-hour power reserve and a frequency of 28,800 bph, has earned a COSC chronometer certificate. With water resistance up to 100m/330ft, anti-magnetic properties up to 4,800A/m, and shock resistance up to 7,500Gs, it's a watch built for resilience in any environment.
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| Ball's patented crown protection design |
Encased in 316L stainless steel with satin brushed finishing, the 42mm case, with a height of 13.85mm, reflects both boldness and sophistication. Featuring a 3.2mm dome-shaped anti-reflective sapphire crystal and bidirectional rotating curved sapphire bezel integrated with micro gas tubes below for exceptional visibility for any lighting condition. What's unique about this particular GMT diver is its two-tone black and blue "Batman" bezel, giving it a sleek refreshing outlook.
The patented crown protection design located at 3 o'clock safeguards the crown, adding a layer of both functionality and innovation. The case measures at 54mm lug-to-lug with a lug width of 21mm. Featuring a matte and textured black dial with 44 micro gas tubes on the hour, minute, second, second time zone hands, dial and bezel ensures perfect 24-our GMT reading in absolute darkness. Another highlight got to be its double-signed dial, where the bottom of it gets the Sled Driver emblem and logo in which balance off the whole dial. Not stopping here, Ball placed the actual SR-71 Blackbird at 6 o'clock without throwing off the symmetry.
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| 44 micro gas tubes on hour, minute, second, second time zone hands, dial and bezel for night reading capability |
The tapered 316L stainless steel bracelet, complemented by a patented folding buckle with an extension system, mirrors the watch's overbuilt nature. Brushed outer and polished inner links, along with screw-in links, contribute to the bracelet's robust design.
Limited 1990 pieces worldwide, the Ball Engineer Hydrocarbon AeroGMT is a collectible masterpiece combining style, durability, and precision. With its collaborative status and a myriad of features, including micro gas tubes for enhanced visibility, this watch is a true expression of Ball's dedication to excellence in watchmaking. Crafted to withstand formidable challenges and shine brilliantly, the Sled Driver is designed to confront any obstacles head-on and persistently propel forward.
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