IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Big Date 150th Anniversary Overview
The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Big Date 150th Anniversary is one of the commemorative timepieces released to celebrate IWC’s 150 years of watchmaking. It marks the first use of a big double-digit date window in any IWC pilot’s watch, while preserving the bold legibility and aviation-inspired aesthetic that define the Big Pilot lineage. Limited to 100 pieces, the model offers both historical significance and modern functional refinement.
Case Dimensions and Signature Pilot Architecture
The stainless-steel case measures 46.2 mm in diameter and 15.2 mm in thickness, staying true to the classic proportions of the Big Pilot series. Its substantial presence reflects military-grade tool-watch origins. The onion-shaped crown positioned at 3 o’clock not only ensures easy grip but also balances the robust silhouette of the watch, a defining characteristic of this iconic model.
Anniversary Lacquer Dial and Refined Legibility
The polished lacquer dial is part of the exclusive IWC 150th Anniversary design language. Available in white or blue, the white lacquer variant is especially admired for its enamel-like glow and elegant depth. Black numerals and a crisp minute track provide excellent contrast, while the hands are accented in deep blue and filled with luminous material.
The luminous markers at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o’clock ensure nighttime visibility. The recessed small-seconds subdial at 6 o’clock adds dimensional interest without disrupting the clean symmetry of the display.
Big Double-Digit Date Display
The watch introduces a new double-disc date mechanism at 12 o’clock. The bold two-digit layout significantly enhances practicality and improves readability, especially for a pilot-style watch intended for quick visual interpretation. This feature alone distinguishes it from other Big Pilot models and makes it an important milestone piece for collectors.
Movement: IWC Caliber 59235 With 8-Day Power Reserve
Inside the watch is IWC’s in-house Caliber 59235 manual-winding movement. Thanks to a large single mainspring barrel, it achieves an outstanding 8-day power reserve—meaning the wearer only needs to wind the watch once per week. The movement is protected by a soft-iron inner cage to enhance antimagnetic resistance, a traditional feature of professional pilot watches.
Although the caseback is not fully open, a sapphire aperture offers a view of the power-reserve display and commemorative anniversary engraving.
Strap, Comfort, and Wearing Experience
The watch is equipped with a black alligator leather strap paired with a stainless-steel buckle. Given its size, the model delivers a bold wrist presence while maintaining balanced ergonomics typical of the Big Pilot series. It offers 60 meters of water resistance, suitable for daily wear.
Price and Collectability
With an official retail price of US$13,800 and a limit of only 100 pieces, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Big Date 150th Anniversary stands out as one of the most distinctive releases from the brand’s commemorative collection. Its unique combination of big-date functionality, anniversary aesthetics, and long power reserve makes it an appealing option for collectors and enthusiasts of aviation-inspired watches.
IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Big Date 150th Anniversary Specifications
Stainless-steel case, 46.2 mm diameter, 15.2 mm thickness, sapphire crystal, stainless-steel caseback, white lacquer dial, IWC Caliber 59235 manual movement, 30 jewels, 28,800 vph, 8-day power reserve, alligator strap, stainless-steel buckle, 60 m water resistance.
Further Reading
External Source:
IWC Official Website
