IWC Big Pilot IW500201

Event:

Source:

Date:

Lot Number:

Condition: -
Year of Production: 2002
Case Size: 46mm
Case Material: Stainless steel
Dial Color: Black
Bracelet/Strap: Leather
Movement Type: Mechanical
Box: Yes
Papers: Yes
Location: United States

Description

IWC Big Pilot IW500201 Released in 2002 as the first model within the Big Pilot collection, the ref. IW500201 is one of the most iconic pilot’s watches created to date, with its heritage-inspired aesthetic and functional design cues stemming from the historically significant B-Uhr pilots watch worn by German pilots, the Luftwaffe. Measuring 46mm in diameter, the IW500201 is still 9mm smaller than the watches it is inspired by, but comes with a dial design closely linked to that featured on the legendary B-Uhr watches (or Observation Watches as they were known in English) and the same large deeply knurled crown for ease of use while wearing leather gloves in a cramped cockpit. With a power reserve indicator at 3 o’clock and a date aperture found at 6 o’clock, the ref. IW500201 is a functional piece of kit that celebrates the design that came before it whilst adding its own piece of useful and contemporary horological engineering to the mix that increases its wearability for the modern collector. An iconic piece of IWC's brand heritage, the Big Pilot's black no-frills dial exists as a monument to the utility-focused design that the original B-Uhr watches had to feature. Adorned with plenty of lume and large hands, the Big Pilot is exceedingly legible and easy to read from in dark conditions. Now one of the most iconic pieces of design associated with the Big Pilot collection, the deeply knurled crown serves as a throwback to the timepiece's original use case when pilots would have to operate their watch whilst keeping it on their wrist and wearing leather gloves - a difficult task indeed. This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.