Introducing The IWC Pilots Watch Chronograph Edition "Collectors Watch," An Homage To Aviation Heritage

January 29, 2014

For many watch enthusiasts, online forums can be an important tool for connecting with fellow collectors across the globe. And for the manufactures, forums can be a strategic conduit for speaking directly to a core group of dedicated fans. To celebrate the members of its official Collectors Forum, IWC has introduced the Pilots Watch Edition "Collectors' Watch," a new limited edition chronograph that embodies the traditional styling and utility of the IWC Pilot's range with a hint of vintage detailing.Wristwatches specifically designed for aviation have been an important part of IWCs 146-year history. In 1936, IWC introduced the Special Pilots Watch, designed with features like an antimagnetic escapement and high-contrast dial to ensure durability and optimum legibility for pilots. In 1940 IWC introduced the Big Pilots Watch 52 T.S.C. C which at 55mm is still the largest watch ever produced by the manufacture. More recently, there was a big focus on Pilots watches in 2012 with the introduction of five new models, including the IWC Top Gun Miramar Chronograph, reviewed here?by our friend and contributor John Mayer. The Pilots Watch Chronograph Edition Collectors' Watch is the third piece that IWC has produced with its forum members in mind. It features hand-applied rhodium arabic numerals set against a black dial for high contrast and easy reading. The sword-shaped hour and minute hands are substantially sized, complemented by bold rectangular markers at 12, 3, 6, and 9 oclock. There is also a minutes register around the outer edge of the dial. One of the things that sets this watch apart from the rest of IWC's Pilot's watch offerings is the color of the lume, which is Superluminova meant to look like the aged tritium you'd find on a vintage IWC pilot.? Inside is IWCs in-house calibre 89365, a fly-back chronograph with date function. Like on other models using this movement, the sub-registers are positioned vertically at 12 oclock and 6 oclock. A small aperture for the date sits at 3 C you'll notice that this is a single-date window instead of the three-date window (inspired by an altimeter) you'll find on most of the other Pilot's.At 43mm, the watch is large enough to be useful to actual pilots, while remaining suitable for casual wear for those of us who prefer to sit far behind the cockpit. The steel case has a simple case back with Collectors Forum insignia and engraved edition number. A soft iron cage inside protects the movement from magnetism. The Pilots Watch Chronograph Edition is limited to 250 pieces and interested buyers can select their preferred number (as availability allows, of course). Though the watch is available to the general public, there are a few guidelines to bear in mind listed in this post by forum moderator Michael Friedberg. It's worth noting here that this is one of the few modern IWCs with actual numbered pieces C most say "One of One Hundred" or something similar instead. For a slight additional charge, IWC will even add your name to the case back too.The IWC Pilots Watch Chronograph Edition Collectors Forum is priced at CHF 11,500 and is available now via this order form. For more information, visit IWC online.