IWC Schaffhausen Launches Exclusive Big Pilot’s Mercedes-Benz G-Class Watches
IWC Schaffhausen introduces two Big Pilot Watches inspired by the iconic Mercedes-Benz G-Class, combining the enduring appeal and utilitarian heritage of the G-Wagon with cutting-edge watchmaking.
As a devoted admirer and proud owner of the legendary G-Class convertible for the past two decades, I couldn’t be more thrilled to share this extraordinary piece of news with fellow enthusiasts. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, affectionately known as the “G Wagon,” has been my trusted companion on countless adventures. Its enduring appeal, unwavering toughness, and utilitarian roots have left an indelible mark on my heart. Today, I am privileged to introduce you to an exciting fusion of my two passions: the G-Class and beautiful watches.
The legacy of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, renowned for its unwavering toughness and utility, finds its horological counterpart in the Big Pilot’s Watch by IWC Schaffhausen. In a dazzling celebration of these design icons, IWC introduces two special editions of the Big Pilot’s Watch, paying homage to the G-Class. These timepieces not only draw inspiration from the G-Class’s iconic features but also incorporate state-of-the-art materials and engineering.
The Unbreakable Bond: Big Pilot’s Watch Meets the G-Class
Both the Big Pilot’s Watch and the G-Class share a rich history rooted in functionality. Initially conceived to serve utilitarian purposes, they have transcended their humble origins to become modern design marvels. Now, after nearly two decades of collaboration with Mercedes-AMG, IWC Schaffhausen proudly unveils these extraordinary editions.
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (Ref. IW501201) is a testament to craftsmanship, featuring an 18-carat Armor Gold® case and crown, complemented by a striking black dial and a black rubber strap with microfibre inlay. The design’s black and gold motif takes inspiration from the exterior and interior aesthetics of the recently launched Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition.” Armor Gold® is an innovative alloy that elevates the hardness of gold, ensuring resilience against external factors. This alloy boasts superior hardness and wear resistance compared to conventional 5N gold. With a blend of sand-blasted surfaces and polished edges, this Big Pilot’s Watch exudes a contemporary and elegant aura.
On the other hand, the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (Ref IW506201) breaks new ground by being the first IWC timepiece to sport a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case. This revolutionary material results from a collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Unlike conventional carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, CMC components are exceptionally damage-tolerant and impervious to thermal shocks. This makes them the material of choice for applications demanding both lightweight strength and temperature resistance, spanning from aerospace to high-performance automotive brake discs.
The Art of Crafting Ceramic Matrix Composite
The journey to crafting a CMC watch case begins with a conventional carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer. Through a meticulous pyrolysis heat treatment process lasting several days, the polymer matrix transforms into carbon, leaving a dense mesh of fibers within a porous carbon structure. Silicon crystals are then applied to the component and heated, resulting in silicon carbide ceramic formation as silicon reacts chemically with the carbon. The final product exhibits a distinctive matte black finish, with a unique structure defined by the embedded fibers, ensuring each piece’s individuality.
A Nod to the G-Class Aesthetics
In a nod to the G-Class’s iconic design, both editions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 feature a power reserve display at 3 o’clock and a small second counter at 9 o’clock. The subdials, adorned with external white rings, artfully mimic the headlights found on the front facade of the G-Class. The black dials feature a tactile, relief-like technical structure inspired by the air intakes seen on Mercedes-AMG performance cars. In a departure from the standard Big Pilot’s Watch, these special editions boast appliques that are PVD-coated in black and filled with luminous material, enhancing their allure.
A High-Performance Engine
Both editions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 are powered by the IWC-manufactured 52010 calibre, a robust and precise automatic movement. Critical components within the winding system are crafted from virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic, a testament to IWC’s unwavering commitment to innovation. The ingenious self-winding mechanism, developed by IWC’s former Technical Director Albert Pellaton in the 1940s, capitalizes on the smallest rotor movements in both directions to accumulate a remarkable seven-day power reserve across two barrels. These exquisite movements are on full display through tinted sapphire glass case backs featuring the distinctive Mercedes-Benz star—a design element reminiscent of the G-Class’s spare wheel cover.
Price & Availability
The exclusive Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 editions in 18-carat Armor Gold® and CMC are available through IWC boutiques and on IWC.com. Additionally, these timepieces qualify for registration under the My IWC care program, offering a generous 6-year extension to the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty.
- Price: Big Pilot’s Watch AMG 63 IW506201 – CHF 44’000
- Price: Big Pilot’s Watch AMG 63 IW501201 – CHF 35’000
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