IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Patrouille Suisse
IWC has unveiled a special edition of its Pilot’s Watch Mark XX to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Patrouille Suisse, the Swiss Air Force’s renowned acrobatic team. This new model, crafted in matte titanium and featuring a sleek gray dial, offers a modern and monochromatic take on the classic aviator’s watch. Limited to just 250 pieces, the IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Patrouille Suisse stands out for its blend of high-performance materials and a design that pays homage to one of the world’s most celebrated flying teams.The 40mm diameter case with a thickness of 10.6mm is crafted entirely from matte blasted titanium. This choice of material not only enhances the watch’s durability but also provides a lightweight and comfortable feel on the wrist, making it ideal for daily wear and professional use. The case’s matte finish gives it an instrument-like look, a nod to its military-inspired heritage and the rugged demands of aviation.On the flipside is a solid caseback secured by screws and engraved with special markings dedicated to the Patrouille Suisse, further cementing its status as a tribute to the Swiss Air Force’s acrobatic team. It comes equipped with a knurled screw-in crown for quick sets. The bezel, crown, and caseback are also constructed from titanium, maintaining the watch’s cohesive aesthetic. All topped by a convex sapphire crystal treated with anti-reflective coating on both sides. Additionally, the crystal is secured against displacement caused by drops in air pressure, a feature crucial for high-altitude flights. Water-resistance can reach up to 100 meters (328 feet).Time is exhibited on a sophisticated sunray-brushed slate gray with white printed Arabic numerals and the iconic IWC “triangle” with a dot on each side, located at the 12 o’clock position. While circling around the flange is a white printed minute track, which contrasts elegantly with the matte titanium case. The hands are blackened, complementing the gray dial, and are filled with Super-LumiNova to ensure visibility in low-light conditions. The only touch of color on the dial is the red-tipped seconds hand, which adds a subtle yet dynamic accent to the overall design. This splash of red not only enhances readability but also serves as a visual connection to the Patrouille Suisse, symbolizing the precision and agility of the Swiss Air Force’s acrobatic team.This monochromatic scheme underscores the watch’s tool-like aesthetic while also adding a touch of modern refinement. The layout remains true to the classic Mark XX design, with the addition of these unique aesthetic elements making this limited edition stand out in the lineup.
IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Patrouille Suisse
The “IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XX Patrouille Suisse” (Ref#: IW328209) is powered by the ValFleurier (which is a Richemont Group’s owned production) self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 32111 with 21 jewels, 164 components, and 28,800 vph. Power reserve can last up to 120 hours (5 days), when fully wound.Mounted on the watch is a durable black textile strap, secured by a titanium pin buckle. The strap features IWC’s EasX-CHANGE system, allowing for quick and easy strap changes without the need for tools, enhancing the watch’s versatility.This is a limited edition of only 250 pieces, which will become available in late fall 2024. For more up to date information visit the official IWC Schaffhausen website here.