IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Spitfire

It was just last year that IWC Schaffhausen first presented us with a downsized version of their 46.2mm “Big Pilot’s Watch”. Although initially some purists lacked enthusiasm, the smaller option proved to be a success. Now the 43mm collection has begun expanding its reach further with this new “IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Spitfire”.The 43mm case is made of titanium with a sandblasted finish, and a 14.4mm height. On the flip-side is a solid screw-on caseback decoratively engraved with the “Spitfire” aircraft, after which this timepiece has been named.This case features a soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields. It also comes equipped with a screw-in crown designed in the iconic IWC big diamond shape with a machined circumference, which provides a firm grip for quick-sets.All topped by a convex sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. This crystal has also been secured against displacement by a drop in air pressure. Water-resistance on this watch can reach up to 100 meters (328 feet).Time is exhibited on a matte black dial with white printed Arabic numerals, index markings, and the iconic IWC “triangle” with a dot on each side, located at the 12 o’clock position. The larger ring circling around the flange is 60-minute scale with beige markers for every 15-minute increment. While the center framed grey-colored ring has a 12-hour scale.The central propeller-style hands, Arabic numerals and minute index markers have all undergone a luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility.

The “IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Spitfire” (Ref#: IW329701) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 82100 with 22 jewels and 28,800 vph. It comes equipped with a Pellaton winding system. Power reserve can last up to 60 hours, when fully wound.Mounted to the watch is a brown calfskin strap with exposed stitching, secured to the wrist by a titanium folding clasp. For more up to date information visit the official IWC Schaffhausen website here.