IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Heritage 55

At SIHH 2016, IWC Schaffhausen unveiled the Big Pilot’s Watch Heritage 55, a faithful historical reissue inspired by the original 52-calibre T.S.C., the oversized pilot’s watch that IWC first designed for the German Air Force in 1940.
The original 52-calibre T.S.C. was the largest wristwatch ever produced by IWC, with a total of only 1,000 pieces made. Its enormous dial, along with its high-contrast hands and numerals, allowed pilots to read the time clearly and instantly—even while wearing flight helmets.
The newly introduced Big Pilot’s Heritage 55 retains the same 55 mm case diameter, but thanks to its titanium construction, it remains surprisingly lightweight and comfortable to wear despite its size. The black dial features luminous hands and hour markers, while a small seconds subdial has been added at 6 o’clock, distinguishing it from the original model. The oversized onion-shaped crown at 3 o’clock is another classic hallmark of traditional pilot’s watches.

iInside beats the IWC Caliber 98300 hand-wound movement, whose design draws inspiration from early pocket watch calibers. With a frequency of 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour), it runs with a measured and steady rhythm, evoking the feel of traditional watchmaking.
The Big Pilot’s Watch Heritage 55 is limited to 100 pieces worldwide and priced at USD 14,800.
IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Heritage 55
Case: Titanium, Diameter: 55 mm, Thickness: 13.5 mm, Sapphire crystal, Black dial with luminous hands and hour markers,Movement: Caliber 59215, hand-wound, 30 jewels, Frequency: 28,800 vph,Power reserve: 8 days, Brown calfskin strap with titanium pin buckle, Water resistance: 600 meters, Limited edition of 100 pieces.