No other model expresses the fascination of IWC Schaffhausen aviator’s watches like the Big Pilot’s Watch. Its purely functional cockpit-instrument design and oversized conical crown were inspired by a military observation watch from the 1940s. One of the most popular models from this collection is the Big Pilot’s Watch 43.
The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 distilled the pure essence of the iconic design created more than 80 years ago. It just features a simple three-hand dial without any additional elements. Another feature shared by the current Big Pilot’s Watch and its historical progenitor is the enormous crown, which allowed pilots to operate their watches while wearing their padded flight gloves.
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To provide more comfort when worn on the wrist, IWC decided to complement their iconic model with a smaller size of 43mm. The manufacturer gently reworked and improved every detail, such as the case size and proportions, the dial graphics and the shape of the hands. Despite the reduced size, the 43-millimetre case combines a bold look with great wearing comfort, so it still looks and feels like a Big Pilot’s Watch.
“Many people love the design, but they cannot strap a 46-millimetre timepiece on their wrist. For this reason, we decided to complement our portfolio with a new version with a more ergonomic case size, and I always wanted to design an ultra-pure, three-hand Big Pilot’s Watch” said Christian Knoop, IWC Creative Director, about the motivation for developing the Big Pilot’s Watch 43.
Another update to this new model is, IWC presenting the Big Pilot’s Watch on a stainless steel bracelet with EasX-CHANGE system which allows you to change the strap quickly. The five-link execution adds to the design’s purity and gives the watch a crisp and contemporary look. Beautifully shaped links combining polished and satin-finished surfaces have a visible presence and nicely reflect the light.
Inside the case, this watch is powered by IWC in-house 82100 calibre. This high-end automatic movement features IWC’s legendary Pellaton winding system, reinforced by ceramic components, which can be viewed through a sapphire glass case back.
After the debut of its new Pilot’s Watch line, IWC Schaffhausen has launched a worldwide advertising campaign that focused on the Big Pilot’s Watch. The campaign stars Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time FIA Formula OneTM World Drivers’ Champion who has been an IWC brand ambassador since 2013.
The Big Pilot and Lewis Hamilton in IWC emphasized both watches’ distinctive position. It is now the watch of choice for cultural innovators, ambitious entrepreneurs, and those who follow their dreams in their own unique manner.
Hamilton admirably fits this character, having progressed from an athlete intent on breaking records in his sport to being a “engine of change.” He’s increasingly utilizing his position to speak out against social concerns, such as challenges of diversity and inclusion in his sport.
“Today, I don’t drive just for myself anymore, not to break the next record. Today, I am the driver of change. I am a Big Pilot.” Said Lewis Hamilton on the Big Pilot video campaign above.
The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 is the ideal modern utility sports watch, ready for adventures in the air, on land, and on water. If you are interested to have this watch in your collection, visit the nearest The Time Place boutique for more information.
