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Vulcain

Aviator Mechanical (Alarm)

Ref. 100164.T20L
2015–present · 42mm · caliber Vulcain Cal. 120: manual-wind alarm, 18,000bph; same dual-mainspring Cricket architecture in a modern 42mm titanium case; aviation-spec rotating outer ring for elapsed-time tracking
Mass-produced

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Movement tier: unclassified · caliber Vulcain Cal. 120: manual-wind alarm, 18,000bph; same dual-mainspring Cricket architecture in a modern 42mm titanium case; aviation-spec rotating outer ring for elapsed-time tracking
Medium-large: suits wrists 6.5 in+ (16.5 cm+)
42 mm case. Wears confidently on average to larger wrists. May overhang on slender builds.

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Authentication

The Vulcain Aviator uses the same Cal. 120 Cricket alarm movement in a modern titanium aviation case with a rotating outer ring. Authentication follows the same dual-crown and alarm-function logic as the 50s Presidents Watch. The titanium case adds a specific weight verification point.

Known issues in the market
  • Alarm function must work correctly; same two-crown test as the 50s Presidents Watch applies.
  • Titanium case is noticeably lighter than a steel case of the same dimensions; a Vulcain Aviator that feels steel-weight is likely not titanium.
  • The outer rotating ring for elapsed-time tracking should turn smoothly with a positive click detent; a ring that is loose or spins freely without detent is a service issue or a substituted case.
AreaWhat to checkWhat is correctRed flag
crownTwo-position crownSame two-position crown architecture as the 50s Presidents Watch; lower position for time movement, upper position for alarm; both engage cleanlySingle-position crown only; no distinct difference between winding and alarm positions
movementAlarm function with distinctive buzzSame 20-25 second buzzing alarm as the 50s Presidents Watch; sound carries through the titanium case; vibration felt on the wristNo alarm function; click-only alarm; alarm that does not sustain for at least 15 seconds
caseTitanium case weight and textureTitanium is roughly 45% lighter than stainless steel of the same dimensions; the case has a characteristic matte or lightly brushed titanium surface finish; no magnetic attraction to a magnetCase weight consistent with steel rather than titanium; magnetic attraction to a magnet (titanium is non-magnetic); surface that looks polished to a mirror rather than titanium matte
caseRotating outer ring with click detentOuter ring rotates in one direction (unidirectional safety design for aviation) with a positive click detent at each minute position; ring is secure with no wobbleRing that rotates in both directions; loose ring with no click detent; excessive play in the ring that could allow accidental rotation
Common legitimate replacements
  • Strap and bracelet replacements are common.
Expert resources: Vulcain authorized dealers can authenticate via serial number. The alarm function is the definitive test for any Cricket-movement Vulcain.

Authentication guide

Last reviewed June 2026

The Aviator Mechanical is Vulcain's pilot-oriented piece in titanium at 42mm. Same two-barrel Cricket alarm architecture; titanium case is the material differentiator. Caseback vibration test applies.

Known reproduction risks

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LOW

Steel case presented as titanium, or single-barrel movement in Cricket-style case

  • Case weight inconsistent with titanium
  • Magnet attracting the case
  • Only one barrel through the caseback
  • No caseback vibration from alarm

Dial variants by era

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EraDescriptionIdentifiers
Aviator Mechanical production42mm titanium case. Pilot dial with high legibility: large numerals, high contrast, luminous treatment.
  • Titanium case; noticeably lighter than steel for the same size
  • Two crowns present for time and alarm
  • Aviator dial with large Arabic numerals and legibility-first layout

Service part flags

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Case material

Original: Grade 5 or similar titanium; lighter than steel at the same dimensions.

Replacement tells
  • Case feels heavy for its size (steel rather than titanium)
  • Case lacks the faint grey matte finish characteristic of brushed titanium
  • Magnet attracts the case (titanium is non-magnetic)
Alarm mechanism

Original: Same two-barrel Cricket alarm as the Presidents' Watch.

Replacement tells
  • Only one barrel through the caseback
  • Single crown only
  • No caseback vibration when alarm activates

Case back markings

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All Aviator production
  • Vulcain markings
  • Cricket caliber designation
  • Titanium case material designation
  • Serial number

Movement tells

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  • All Cricket two-barrel movement checks apply.
  • Caseback vibration test applies; the Aviator should vibrate against the wrist when the alarm activates.
  • Titanium case: confirm with a magnet before purchase if case material is in question.
Sources: Vulcain official.

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