Up, Up, And Away With The RGM Model 151 Snoopy Flying Ace
Today, we take a look at a surprising release. While Snoopy has been featured on watches ranging from Timex to Omega, I can’t say that I was expecting the character to arrive on an RGM. However, the small Pennsylvania-based brand now joins the club with a unique take on the Peanuts character. As the company states, this is likely the first time the aviator has been created in grand feu enamel. Let’s investigate the Model 151 Snoopy Flying Ace.
Admittedly, every time RGM releases a new watch, I take notice. You see, I lived about 15 minutes from the watchmaker’s Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, location. It’s there that Roland G. Murphy works his magic, creating railroad-inspired watches with new and vintage movements. With a focus on American-made components, RGM has found success among those who appreciate a high level of hand-created details. That said, RGM periodically uses Swiss movements for some of its more approachable models. Today’s Model 151 Snoopy Flying Ace comes in two varieties, with one on the more affordable end and the other showing off handcrafted detail.
The RGM Model 151 Snoopy Flying Ace
The Snoopy Flying Ace is a 38.5mm watch available in either 316L stainless steel or CP-2 titanium. The latter is synonymous with Grade 2. What’s more, RGM offers the American-made cases in polished or brushed finishes. Each piece comes equipped with a sapphire crystal and a 5atm water resistance rating. Interestingly, RGM chose perforated Hirsch Performance straps with a matching pin buckle. The straps feature blue or red leather tops and a black rubber lining.
Two distinct dials — grand feu enamel or matte
The Snoopy Flying Ace is available in two distinct dial styles. Understandably, the showstopper is the version with grand feu enamel. This piece has a countersunk central section with a military-style layout. It equates to blued sword hands and a central seconds hand with a red tip. Snoopy, sitting on his doghouse with goggles and cap, is positioned within the central section. Three clouds are scattered within this sunken layer. The central hands and triangular indexes are filled with Super-LumiNova.
A close-up of the dial reveals clean enamel work and the type of depth that makes this such an attractive medium. Frankly, it’s one of my favorite dial surfaces. Now, as for the addition of Snoopy, I’m not always a fan. However, it works well here because the design is simple and crisp. Plus, the underlying classic design works well. Do note that due to the dial material, the watch is 0.7mm thicker than the matte-dial version, for a total of 10.6mm. Pricing for this model ranges from US$8,950 in stainless steel to US$9,950 in titanium.
The matte dial is also seriously attractive
For a slightly more attainable option, RGM offers the Flying Ace Snoopy with a printed matte dial. This watch has an identical design but trades the white background for light blue. Also, the hands have a brushed silver tone rather than the blued finish on the enamel version. Here, due to the thinner dial, the watch’s overall profile comes to 9.9mm. For these models, the prices drop to US$3,950 with a stainless steel case or US$4,950 with a titanium case.
A highly finished Sellita SW300 inside
RGM has given the Snoopy Flying Ace an all-metal case back with an inscribed depiction of the character. Underneath, the watch is powered by a heavily decorated Sellita SW300. This automatic caliber runs at 28,800 vph and packs a 56-hour power reserve. RGM adds a rhodium finish, Côtes de Genève, and perlage.
Final thoughts
RGM has produced an exciting and attractive watch in the new Model 151 Flying Ace Snoopy. It’s certainly different from prior watches featuring the popular character. Plus, there’s a bit of American-made content, which is a nice touch with the American comic strip. For more details and ordering information, visit the official RGM site. In the meantime, let us know your thoughts on the latest watch to feature the famous canine!
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