Hands On: IWC Double Chronograph Edition Antoine De Saint Exupery

Hands On: IWC Double Chronograph Edition Antoine De Saint Exupery

iwclogo.png

Let’s have a close look at IWC’s latest addition to the Antoine De Saint Exupery family: IWC Double Chronograph Edition Antoine De Saint Exupery Limited to 1000 pieces.

-WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-1-.jpg

IWC was a true star during the SIHH 2016 Exhibition with its re-newed Pilot Collection. We mentioned about the brands latest novelties launched during SIHH 2016 together with an exclusive interview with IWC’s … Ms. Nina Jangle here. We had the opportunity to take the highly praised Double Chronograph Edition Antoine De Saint Exupery model to a test drive.

The case is made of stainless steel and sports a diameter of 44mm. The sapphire crystal on the front features double AR coating which makes it invisible almost in any occasion. Except the bezel in mirror polishing, the case is offered with fine satin brushed surface. The 17mm height suits fine with the 44mm diameter making a better than expected spec wearing comfort.

-WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718.jpg

Beside the visible features of the case, there is also a soft iron cage inside to provide anti-magnetic shielding and improved shock absorbance.   

Personally, I always prefer black or blue colors in a dial. However the slate dial used on this watch is absolutely amazing especially with its sunburst effect creating color tones.

-WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-3-.jpg

The hands set and indexes are designed in classic pilot’s watch form and SuperLuminova treated for enhanced night time visibility. The Chronograph sub dials are located at 12,6 and 9 o’clock position. The trademark for the Antoine De Saint Exupery timepieces “A” symbol is located at 6 o’clock position. There is also a day and date indicator at 3 o’clock position.

Unfortunately, the solid case back does not allow us to watch the movement but there’s a beautiful engraving of the Lockheed P-38 aircraft which had been used during Saint-Exupéry’s final flight. The case back also features information about the watch such as 60M WR rating and limited edition No.

-WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-5-.jpg

 The watch is powered by the brand’s in-house movement Caliber Ref. 79420. The movement offers 44h power reserve when fully wound. Besides the common features like a day and a date indicator, the movement sports a Double Chronograph feature which is known as Rattrapante in the traditional watch making glossary. In Double Chronograph time pieces, the watch sports two different Chronograph modules which allow the user to monitor two timings at once.

 tech_rattrapante-ee2a7bd89983b76ad4fbbbccadb5b57a.jpg

The strap is another part that deserves every single positive thought about it with its beauty and comfort. Calf leather strap features cream color contrast stitching. Let us remind you that this gorgeous strap is made by the famous Italian brand Santoni. The folding clasp works flawlessly.

-WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-7-.jpg -WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-6-.jpg

When it gets to Pilot Watches, we shouldn’t be expected an average model from IWC. Same goes for the IWC Double Chronograph Edition Antoine De Saint Exupery as well. Besides its amazing dial color and beautiful Santoni strap, the watch features a cocktail of technical details.

We strongly suggest the IWC Double Chronograph Edition Antoine De Saint Exupery to everyone looking for a classic Pilot’s watch with a moderate size and optimum wearing comfort. Be sure to visit the IWC Nişantaşı Boutique for an in person and upclose look accompanied by a delicious latte.

-WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-8-.jpg -WC_DOUBLE_CHRONOGRAPH_ED-T-ON_ANTO-NE_DE_SA-NT_EXUPE-RY_REFERENCE_3718-9-.jpg