The Legend of the Pilot's Watch, Revisited

Which collection would be renewed this year? Answering this question is one of the pleasures for those who visit the IWC booth, and this time, many were likely surprised to see a Spitfire, the famous fighter aircraft of the British Royal Air Force, suspended from the ceiling at the booth's entrance, as if in an aviation museum.



2016 is the "Pilot's Watch Year." It marks the period of revision for this collection, the first since 2012. The "Mark" series, the core of the collection, has advanced from the "Mark XVII" to the "Mark XVIII." The "Chronograph" and "Big Pilot's Watch" also show a return to designs that enhance a vintage feel overall, while simultaneously diversifying in size and color, resulting in an even more varied collection.

Additionally, the "Petit Prince" models, a tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry that has become an annual tradition, also appeared, adding a fitting touch to the collection's year.

The "Mark XVIII": A Return to Design and Size

The "Mark XVIII" has arrived, continuing the lineage of the "Pilot's Watch" that began in 1948 and was supplied to the British Royal Air Force. This renewal strongly reinforces the impression that watch design trends are returning to the past.

With subtle changes, the design has been refined to a conservative impression in the best sense, and it is likely to gain support from the many fans who appreciate watches in the 40mm size. The leather straps, used across almost all series, are from the high-quality Santoni company, achieving a beautiful finish and comfortable wear. In addition to the classic black dial and the silver dial for the Spitfire specification, there are also "Top Gun" models with a military feel, and "Petit Prince" specifications paying tribute to the novelist Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, who was also a pilot, and his masterpiece "The Little Prince."

The "Petit Prince" is particularly captivating with its midnight blue dial, reminiscent of the color of the high sky. This color, combined with the calm of vintage aviation watches and the engraved figure of "The Little Prince" on the case back, creates a special model.



Functionally, a full range of features including chronographs are available, but what I particularly want to introduce is the "Pilot's Watch Timezoner Chronograph" with its dynamic bezel and 45mm size. This model adds a special world time display to IWC's signature chronograph with its 12-hour and 30-minute counters.

By rotating the bezel and moving the city name indicated on it to the 12 o'clock position, the hour and minute hands move in conjunction, instantly displaying the time in that city. Day and night can be distinguished by the 24-hour hand. The rotating bezel utilizes the mechanism from the "Aquatimer" diver's watch and is locked unless pushed from the front, preventing accidental operation. It is an innovative mechanism that allows for the display of times around the world with remarkable ease.

With this watch as a prime example, a diverse lineup of functional models has been constructed, showcasing considerable richness.

Page02. Another Origin of IWC's Pilot's Watches

Another Origin of IWC's Pilot's Watches

The "Big Pilot's Heritage Watch," a successor to IWC's pilot's watches born in 1940, has also been introduced.

Pursuing vintage design to its extreme leads back to the ultra-large size of pocket watches. Looking at this precious limited timepiece, one is reminded of this fact anew. The presence of a 55mm case size is more than just significant. It is a size that overwhelms even the wrists of Westerners. The luminous paint applied to the dial also exudes an antique-like atmosphere.



The riveted calfskin strap and the large, trapezoidal crown, operable even with gloved hands, are also faithful to the tradition of the "Big Pilot's Watch."

Although it is a rare model with only 100 units produced worldwide, it is highly recommended for fans of vintage-style watches.

Page02. Expanding Size Variations for a Wider Customer Base

Expanding Size Variations for a Wider Customer Base

The trend towards larger watches has somewhat subsided in contemporary timepieces, and we observe a tendency for regular men's case sizes to converge around 40mm, as seen with the "Mark XVIII."

However, there are still persistent voices that find even this size large. Until the 1980s, men's sizes typically ranged from 34mm to 38mm, with the exception of some sports models. A size about 10% smaller than 40mm feels just right for Japanese wrists.

The "Pilot's Watch Automatic 36" is a watch that achieves this exquisite size.

It is a reproduction of the "Mark 11," the original "Pilot's Watch," which had a case diameter of 36mm. When worn, it is a size that fits comfortably on anyone's wrist. On the other hand, even by modern standards, it is not too large to be considered a women's fashion item.

With a thickness of 10.5mm, it is a size that will not interfere with cuffs, exuding a subtle elegance. The glossy dial colors can be matched with any fashion style. The strap options include a stainless steel bracelet or an alligator strap from Santoni. For example, the bracelet, with its beautiful combination of polished and satin finishes, can be worn with suits, office casual, or weekend casual attire.

It is a highly appealing, truly unisex watch suitable for all ages and genders. It is also recommended as a shared watch with a partner.