Discover the first official Seagull 1963 Chronograph Display Case back Edition, a tribute to the 75th anniversary of the Chinese Air Force. In this heartfelt interview, Colonel Zhao De Qing, former head of the 112th Regiment, shares his inspiring journey with the iconic Seagull 1963 Chronograph. Witness the launch of the Seagull 1963 Display Case back limited edition, a symbol of aviation history, courage, and legacy. Explore how this legendary timepiece became an essential companion in the skies, blending precision with patriotism. Perfect for collectors and enthusiasts of the Seagull 1963 Chronograph Display Case back.
This is a deeply historical and heartfelt interview video, released in commemoration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Air Force. Sea-Gull Watch has invited Zhao De Qing, former head of the 112th Regiment of the 38th Division of the Air Force in Tianjin's Wuqing District, to share his unique bond with the Sea-Gull 1963 Pilot Chronograph. To mark this special occasion, Sea-Gull is officially releasing a transparent case-back version of the 1963 chronograph—the Sea-Gull 1963 75th Anniversary Limited Edition. As a significant figure in the history of the Chinese Air Force, Colonel Zhao once wore this legendary timepiece during his flight missions, witnessing countless pivotal moments. In the video, he fondly recalls those remarkable years, recounting how the Sea-Gull 1963 accompanied him through the skies, becoming an indispensable companion in his aviation career. This is not just a story about a watch, but a touching narrative of courage, duty, and legacy.
“Through relentless training and fearless courage, I have remained loyal and patriotic to my country.“
I was born in February 1949, and this year marks my 75th birthday. I served in the military for 26 years, with 23 of those years dedicated to flying, accumulating over 2,200 flight hours. After more than a year of training at aviation school, I went on to learn fighter jet piloting in the military. I served as the commander of an independent squadron and later as the head of the 112th Regiment, overseeing more than 200 missions. My greatest desire was to become a pilot who could serve and defend the skies of my homeland.
The first time I flew solo, I was a bit nervous and uneasy. But after a few flights, I became more skilled, able to operate the aircraft smoothly, and my confidence grew. On December 10, 1990, I was leading a formation flight with another pilot. I was the lead aircraft, and he was the wingman. During a maneuver in the air, he collided with me, damaging the auxiliary fuel tank, the horizontal stabilizer, and the tail. Seeing that the plane was still operational and controllable, I managed to fly it back and land safely. In any situation, it’s crucial to remain cautious and steady. If the aircraft is still flyable, it’s our duty to bring it back and protect national property from loss.
Back then, we flew Soviet aircraft like the MiG-15 and MiG-17, which were known as the J-5 and J-6 in China. Things are vastly different now—the J-16, J-20, and J-22 are far superior, a hundred times better than what we flew! Time is of the essence for pilots. Aircraft fuel is limited, and we must carefully manage flight duration. From the moment we take off, we record every minute, and timing is critical for every mission.
I once saw our senior leader wearing a watch—the first-generation air force chronograph, the predecessor to the Sea-Gull 1963 pilot chronograph. At the time, the Tianjin Watch Factory developed this watch specifically for the air force, and its creation was a state secret, codenamed “304.” For us veterans of the air force, flight equipment is more than just a tool for telling time; it’s a symbol of our emotions and the enduring spirit of aviation. I feel that the spirit of the Sea-Gull 1963 resonates deeply with our flying ethos—both represent forging ahead courageously in challenging conditions, breaking through adversity with a soaring attitude, and achieving the impossible.
I wish for Seagull watches to carry forward the spirit of the Seagull 1963 chronograph in the years to come, continuously innovating and surpassing expectations, striving for excellence in the vast skies of the watchmaking industry. May our air force grow ever stronger, with each generation surpassing the last!
Only 45 pieces left of the exclusive Seagull 1963 Display Case Back 75th Anniversary Limited Edition — secure yours now before they’re gone!
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