May 05, 2021

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43

Back in the early 1990’s was when IWC first began to dig into its past by relaunching the “Pilot’s Watch” collection. This revived their concept of an oversized, ultra-legible watch that was conceived with the World War II pilots in mind. Since then various adjustments and technical evolutions have molded these timepieces, which have now led us to the new “IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43”.Case wise this collection started off at 55m, came dow to 40mm, had recently been produced with 42mm and now is being presented in a 43mm option. This round 43mm case has been made out of stainless-steel with a mix of brushed and polished finish. On the flip-side we encounter a see-through sapphire exhibition case back, which allows to view the inner workings of the mechanical movement. It comes equipped with a golden IWC medallion nestled with the oscillating bridge, amidst other gold components and colorful jewels.It obviously comes equipped with the polished screw-in crown designed in the iconic IWC big diamond shape with a riveted circumference, providing a firm grip for quick-sets. All topped by a convex shaped sapphire crystal with an antireflective coating. This glass has been secured against displacement caused by drops in air pressure. Water-resistance on this timepiece can reach up to 100 meters (328 feet).Time is exhibited on either a black or blue dial with white Arabic numerals, followed by small white minute index markers and slightly thicker markers for every 5-minute increment; except for the 12 o’clock position that features IWC’s iconic triangle with two dots marker. The upper-half of dial includes the IWC branding, while the lower-half simply has been inscribed with “AUTOMATIC”. This is a highly no nonsense, bare bones highly legible watch that was originally conceived for users engaged in high-stress combative situations.

The central rhodium-plated dagger-style hands, Arabic numerals and index markers have all been fitted with a luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility.

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43

The “IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43” (References below) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 82100 with 22 jewels and 28,800 vph. This movement comes equipped with a “hacking” central seconds and small components crafted from virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. Power reserve on this timepiece can reach up to 60 hours, when fully wound. Mounted to the watch is either a blue or brown calfskin leather strap, secured to a folding clasp; or a 5-link brushed and polished stainless-steel bracelet, secured by a folding clasp. Both the strap and bracelet benefit of a quick-change system for swift swaps between them. For more up to date information visit the official IWC website here.