In the world of luxury watches and automotive excellence, the keywords are robustness, performance, and utilitarian heritage. These attributes are embodied by two enduring icons: the G-Class from Mercedes-Benz and the IWC Big Pilot Watch. Today, we delve into the celebration of their enduring success with the introduction of two special Big Pilot’s Watch editions, each showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation.
The G-Class from Mercedes-Benz and the Big Pilot’s Watch from IWC Schaffhausen share a remarkable history deeply rooted in utilitarian legacy. Originally designed for purely functional purposes, the G-Class was created to excel in off-road capabilities, while the Big Pilot’s Watch was crafted to offer unrivaled readability and durability. Over the years, both have seamlessly evolved into modern design icons that continue to stand the test of time.
Now, after nearly two decades of partnership with Mercedes-AMG, the Swiss luxury watchmaker pays homage to these icons with two striking special editions of the Big Pilot’s Watch.
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (Ref. IW501201) stands out with an 18-carat Armor Gold® case and crown, a sleek black dial, and a comfortable black rubber band with a microfiber inlay. The eye-catching black and gold color combination is inspired by the exterior paintwork and interior finishing of the recently announced Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition.” Armor Gold® is a revolutionary alloy that increases the hardness of gold, making it very resistant to external effects. The sand-blasted surfaces and polished edges lend a modern, refined look to this timepiece.
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (Ref. IW506201) marks a significant milestone for IWC as it introduces a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case. Developed in close collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR), this CMC case is a testament to cutting-edge engineering. Unlike conventional carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, the CMC case features fibers embedded in a ceramic matrix, making it highly damage-tolerant and resistant to thermal shocks.
The manufacturing process for CMC involves intricate steps, including pyrolysis and siliconization, resulting in a matte black finish with a unique structure that makes each piece one-of-a-kind.
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 in both versions has a power reserve display at 3 o’clock and a little second counter at 9 o’clock. These opposing subdials with white rings on the outside pay homage to the G-Class’s unique headlights. The black dials are embellished with a relief-like technical structure inspired by Mercedes-AMG sports car air intakes, with appliques coated in black and filled with illuminating material for improved legibility.
Powering both versions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 is the IWC-manufactured 52010 calibre, a robust and precise automatic movement. Key components of the winding system are crafted from virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. This ingenious self-winding mechanism, developed by IWC’s former Technical Director Albert Pellaton in the 1940s, builds a power reserve of seven days in two barrels, utilizing even the smallest rotor movements.
The movements are visible through tinted sapphire glass backs, featuring a Mercedes-Benz star, reminiscent of the G-Class’s spare wheel cover.
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 editions in 18-carat Armor Gold® and CMC are available through IWC boutiques and online at IWC.com. Furthermore, these exceptional timepieces are eligible for registration under the My IWC care program, offering a 6-year extension to the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty.
In the merging worlds of watchmaking and automotive engineering, the Big Pilot’s Watch and the G-Class are not just machines; they are timeless icons that embody the perfect fusion of luxury, performance, and heritage.
