One of the cult examples of the pilot watches, the IWC Big Pilot has a new limited edition model with the winding crown on the left.
I’m sure many of us will immediately recall IWC when it comes to pilot watches. The famous Swiss luxury watchmaker is among the leading brands in this iconic segment with its extensive Pilot’s Watch Collection, which offers a wide range of alternatives. Of course, when it comes to IWC and pilot watches, the first watch we think about is the mighty Big Pilot.
Big Pilot, which has a relatively wide range of products varying from different technical specifications to alternative material options, recently expanded with a new model. Designed on the most popular version of the model family, the new model attracted attention with its left-hand side winding crown.
The general features of the model are the same as the current Big Pilot platform. The stainless steel case is designed with a diameter of 46.2mm and a height of 15.6mm. The case is equipped with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal glass and its water resistance is limited to 60 meters. The most prominent feature of the model is also in the case section. The onion-shaped large winding crown, which is accepted from the signature details of the classic pilot watch concept, is located on the left side of the case. This detail, designed for users who wear the watch on their right hand, of course also causes some changes in the architecture of the movement that beats inside.
The movement that gives life to the new model, Ca. 52010 has been rotated 180 degrees. Because the onion-shaped crown now rests at 9 o’clock instead of the usual 3 o’clock, the power reserve indicator is moved to 9 o’clock as well. Apart from these details, the automatic movement operates at a frequency of 4Hz (28.800vph) and offers a very effective power reserve time of 7 days when fully wound. The movement, equipped with the Pellaton winding system, eliminates the wear due to friction with its ceramic pawls and wheel assembly.
The model comes with a dark gray dial and a stapled calf-leather that is secured by an IWC signed stainless steel folding clasp. Limited to a span of 250 units only, the new model will be available starting August 2019 in Australia and France, followed by the rest of the world in November 2019, at both IWC boutiques and retailers with a MSRP of €14,900.
