IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Tribute To 3705
"For those who missed the 90s” is the chosen catch phrase by IWC Schaffhausen for their latest release, the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph “Tribute To 3705”. It’s a reference to a time in which the brand was on the rise and unveiled their first Pilot’s watch made of black zirconium oxide ceramic. It was nicknamed the “Black Flieger”, which is German for “Aviator” and thus the runway was set for a future collectors item. Now nearly 30 years later this limited edition might be your second chance.
The 41mm case is made of a black matte Ceratanium® with a screw on case-back. This innovative and patented alloy, which is a proprietary IWC material designated as “ceratinium” consists of a combination of titanium and ceramic. It manages to provide the lightweight and unbreakable qualities of titanium, plus the scratch-resistant qualities of ceramic.
It comes equipped with two Ceratanium push-pieces to operate the chronograph and stop-watch features; with a setting-crown in-between them. Plus a soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields.
All topped by a convex sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. The glass has been secured against displacement by drop in air pressure. Water-resistance on this watch is capable of reaching up to 60 meters (196 feet).
Time is exhibited on a black dial with white Arabic numerals and the iconic IWC triangle at the 12 o’clock position. There are three sub-dials: a small hacking seconds at the 6 o’clock position; a 12-hour counter at the 9 o’clock position and a 30-minute counter at the 12 o’clock position.
Following its “Tribute to 3702” theme led IWC to opt for some vintage features, such as the iconic Mark 11 central hands that can be traced back to the early FliegerChronograph watches.
Also includes a two-window day/date aperture aligned with the 3 o’clock position, placed between the IWC Schaffhausen logo inscriptions. The central hands, Arabic numerals and hour index markers have all undergone a luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility.
IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph “Tribute To 3705”
The “IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Tribute To 3705 Edition” (Ref#: IW387905) is powered by the self-winding in-house mechanical movement, caliber 69380 with 33 jewels, 231 components and 28,800 vph. This is a variation of the chronograph family with display for both the day as well as the date. Power reserve on this watch can last up to 48 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted to the watch is a black calfskin strap, secured to the wrist by a ceratanium pin buckle. This is a limited edition of only 1000 manufactured pieces. For more up to date information visit the official IWC Schaffhausen website here.
