With the Big Pilot’s Watch Constant-Force Tourbillon Edition “IWC Racing”, IWC Schaffhausen presents a horological masterpiece in a design inspired by the technical world of motorsport. The timepiece features IWC’s patented constant-force mechanism, which transmits even impulses of force to the escapement, ensuring a highly exact rate. The matte black Ceratanium® case and the fully blacked-out 94800 calibre lend this limited-edition Big Pilot’s Watch a unique and futuristic appearance.
Motor racing combines performance engineering, cutting-edge technology and innovative materials with pure adrenaline. The dynamic world of motorsport and the beauty of advanced racing machines have inspired the Big Pilot’s Watch Constant-Force Tourbillon Edition “IWC Racing” (Ref. IW590501). Limited to 15 pieces, this unique timepiece combines IWC’s complex constant-force tourbillon with a matte black Ceratanium® case and the iconic Big Pilot’s Watch design.
A CONSTANT FORCE ENSURES EVEN OSCILLATIONS
The powerful engine is the IWC-manufactured 94800 calibre, one of the most complicated mechanical movements ever designed in Schaffhausen. The patented constant-force mechanism disengages the escapement from the direct flow of power through the wheel train and transmits completely even impulses of energy to the escape wheel. In conjunction with the tourbillon, which compensates for the negative influences of gravity on the oscillating system, this ensures a highly accurate rate. The plates and bridges are fully blackened having undergone an elaborate rhodium-plating process to match the colour of the case. The movement, which is reminiscent of an engine block, can be viewed through the sapphire glass back.
THE FIRST BIG PILOT’S WATCH IN CERATANIUM®
The 46.2-millimetre case, striking conical crown and pin buckle are all made of Ceratanium®. This IWC-developed material is light and robust like titanium but also similarly hard and scratch-resistant like ceramic. During the first step of the manufacturing process, the components are machined with maximum precision from a proprietary titanium alloy. Afterwards, they are fired at very high temperatures in a kiln. It is during this furnacing process that a phase transformation takes place, and the surface of the material assumes properties similar to those of ceramic. Other characteristics of Ceratanium® are its skin-friendliness and unique matte black finish.
DETAILS INSPIRED BY THE WORLD OF RACING
While the constant-force tourbillon at 9 o’clock is the eyecatcher on the dial, the design also features a double moon phase display for the northern and southern hemispheres. White numerals and yellow-coloured accents imitate a dashboard, while the power reserve display at 4 o’clock is reminiscent of a tachometer. The louvred, ring-shaped structure of the outer dial ring takes inspiration from the cold air intakes of a high-performance engine. Even the black rubber strap incorporates a detail from the world of racing. It features an inlay made of Alcantara®*, a synthetic and durable micro-fibre with superb grip, which is often used for the seats and steering wheel covers of performance cars.
* IWC Schaffhausen is not the owner of the Alcantara® trademark. This mark is protected as the legal property of third parties.
In 1868, the American watchmaker and entrepreneur Florentine Ariosto Jones travelled from Boston to Switzerland and founded the ‘International Watch Company’ in Schaffhausen. His visionary dream was to combine advanced American manufacturing methods with the craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers to make the best pocket watches of his time. In doing so, he not only laid the foundation for IWC’s unique engineering approach but also established the centralised production of mechanical watches in Switzerland.
Over its 150 year history, IWC Schaffhausen has developed a reputation for creating functional complications, especially chronographs and calendars, which are ingenious, robust, and easy for customers to use. A pioneer in the use of titanium and ceramics, IWC today specialises in highly engineered technical watch cases manufactured from advanced materials, such as titanium aluminide and Ceratanium®. Preferring the principle of “form follows function” over decoration, the Swiss watch manufacturer’s timeless creations embody their owners’ dreams and ambitions as they journey through life.
IWC sources materials responsibly and takes action to minimise its impact on the environment, creating intrinsically sustainable timepieces that are built to last for generations. The company prides itself in training its own future watchmakers and engineers, as well as offering an excellent working environment for all employees. IWC also partners with organisations that work globally to support children and young people.
