Simple yet exceptionally practical: the 'Worldtimer' | IWC
WATCH & JEWELRY / SIHH&BASEL
March 27, 2019

Simple yet exceptionally practical: the 'Worldtimer' | IWC


IWC | International Watch Company


A Journey Around the World with a Legendary Machine
Limited Edition Model Supporting the 'Spitfire' Series


At SIHH 2019, new models were introduced from the 'Spitfire' series within the 'Pilot's Watch' collection. Among them, the 'Pilot's Watch Timezoner Spitfire "The Longest Flight"', equipped with a unique timezoner mechanism (world time), stands out for its simple operation and legibility.

Text by KOIZUMI Yoko





Simply press and turn the bezel. An operation mechanism focused on usability.



The 'Spitfire' was a single-engine fighter aircraft of the British Royal Air Force, designed by Reginald J. Mitchell and active from the 1930s to the 1940s. Known as one of the most sophisticated fighter planes, it was praised as a 'masterpiece' for its exceptional performance.

The 'Spitfire' series, named after this fighter, debuted at IWC in 2003. At SIHH 2019, five new models were added.

In homage to the unique engineering pride of its designer, Mitchell, all new models feature IWC's in-house manufactured calibers. Notably, the 'Pilot's Watch Timezoner Spitfire "The Longest Flight"' is a world timer rich in practical functionality.

The movement powering this watch is the Caliber 82760, developed specifically for this model. This marks the first time an automatic caliber from the 82000 series has been used in a Pilot's Watch, signifying an enhancement in its mechanism. To ensure magnetic field protection, the movement is housed in a soft-iron case, and the case back is not transparent. Instead, it features an engraving of the Spitfire in flight, allowing you to appreciate its iconic silhouette.

The brilliance of the timezoner mechanism (world time) lies in its ability to set different time zones with a simple rotation of the bezel, automatically adjusting the hour hand, 24-hour display, and date. Crucially, it does not require access to the crown for time zone adjustments. Furthermore, it's not just the small window displaying the 24-hour time that reflects the selected time zone; all displays are reset to the time of the city chosen on the bezel. This seamless operational style ensures a sophisticated gesture in any situation.






The new model is dedicated to the 'Silver Spitfire – The Longest Flight' project, with the project name 'The Longest Flight' also adorning the model's designation. This project aims to achieve the first circumnavigation of the globe in a Spitfire. This summer, British pilots Steve Boultbee Brooks and Matt Jones are scheduled to embark on a journey of approximately 43,000 km, visiting 26 countries.






Pilot's Watch Timezoner Spitfire "The Longest Flight"

Ref | IW395501
Movement | Automatic (Cal. 82760), 60-hour power reserve, central seconds with stop-seconds function, world timer mechanism, 24-hour display
Case Material | Stainless Steel
Case Diameter, Thickness | 46mm, 15.2mm
Water Resistance | 6 bar
Price | ¥1,430,000 (excluding tax)
Limited Edition | 250 pieces worldwide


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