If you're wanting a do everything tool watch, I think the Ranger fits that role better than the Explorer does nowadays. If you don't like printed dials and patinaed lume, you might not like the Ranger though. If you're okay with both, l'd wholeheartedly recommend to pick one up. I own two...
Yes, the AN5740 would have been used primarily by navigators on bombers (B-29, B-17, B-24). It would have originally came with an anti-shock protective case like the one shown below.
You have a problem Darren.
I'm showing your pics to my wife the next time she says anything about my watch or watch strap collection.
I got this semi-passive aggressive photo via text from her the other day. I knew better than to tell her that I was gonna need about 10x that amount for a new...
I had planned on purchasing that Avigation Big Eye chrono a few months back. Tried one on and it just sat weird on my wrist, which was a huge disappointment. The caseback is a bit proud of the underside of the lugs, so the lugs didn't really contact any part of my wrist. I may still pick one up...
I would be hesitant to call dibs on it for fear that I'd be committed if Adam actually lets it go. I think this one will be a bit outside of any of our budgets, fully serviced with a refurbished case. I won't even mention the going rate for one that's been serviced and in nice condition. 😳