IWC Pilot's Watch Mark XVIII Hodinkee Edition IW424801
Boasting one of watchmaking’s richest back catalogs of iconic models that span decades, IWC have been able to draw from their archives to inspire their latest models, and in 2019 they collaborated with famed watch publication Hodinkee to do exactly that. Taking inspiration from IWC’s Mark II from 1948, the new Mark XVII Hodinkee Edition features the same black dial layout as its predecessor with faux patina on its hour markers at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock and handset that hint at the age of its source of inspiration. However, injecting some modernity into the timepiece, the brands decided to swap the Mark II’s stainless steel case with a Ceratanium case which exists as a ceramic and titanium alloy that pays homage to the IWC ref. 3705 from the 1990s which helped to pioneer the use of ceramic in the watchmaking industry. A modern field watch inspired by a 70-year old mainstay within IWC’s catalog, the IW324801 is a careful balance between a tasteful homage and a well-executed and forward-thinking offering from a brand who always seeks to push the envelope.
THE DIAL Boasting a black dial with faux patina, the Mark XVII's aged SuperLuminova hour markers and hands hint at the age of its direct source of inspiration, the Mark II from 1948.
THE CONSTRUCTION Made of a ceramic alloy combined with titanium, ceratanium, the Mark XVII is incredibly light on the wrist and benefits from a blacked-out aesthetic that is inherently under-the-radar, as a field watch should be.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT 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.