If I had to describe THE typical pilot’s watch, it would look like the IWC Replica Watches Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire. With a functional, easy-to-read dial, large Arabic numerals, a robust case and, of course, a brown leather strap. These are the most important features of the compact Swiss pilot that first catch the eye.
Compact is also the right keyword. The pilot’s watch measures just 39 millimeters, making it almost small by today’s standards. However, one should not forget that such dimensions were anything but unusual in the past. In this respect, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire is quite true to detail. 10.8 millimeters in height is sporty!
The pilot’s watch cuts a fine figure on my wrist and knows how to please with harmonious proportions. A black dial combined with a brown calfskin strap – it really doesn’t get more classic than that. The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire can therefore practically never go out of fashion. The combination with the reference number IW326803 is stylish in every situation, no matter what the occasion.
If this variant is still too boring for you, I can recommend the other references in the collection. IWC offers a number of color and material combinations. According to IWC, the color of my IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire is inspired by the cockpit of the Spitfire.
Although pilot’s watches were originally exclusively men’s watches, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire is, in my opinion, unisex. This is mainly due to the pleasantly compact case diameter.
The case – well made
The pilot’s watch also scores points with its six-screwed case back, which is decorated with the iconic outline of the eponymous Spitfire propeller plane and exudes a special charm. Finally, a little variety to the viewing windows! The engraving makes an excellent impression.
IWC’s new manufacture caliber in detail
Since the last update of the Spitfire collection, IWC has been the first to equip the series with the new 32000 caliber family. The robust and reliable automatic movements are particularly durable thanks to a large number of wear-resistant silicon components. The 32110 caliber works in the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire. With a power reserve of 72 hours (i.e. a whole three days), it is so durable that you hardly ever have to rewind the watch if you wear it on your wrist as a daily rocker. I had this pleasant experience during my test days. At 28,800 semi-oscillations per hour, the movement has 21 jewels. To ensure that the 32110 caliber does not get thrown out of sync in everyday life, it is embedded in a soft iron inner case that protects it from magnetic field radiation.
Winding the movement using the crown was child’s play for me thanks to the fluted sides. You have to remember that even pilots had to be able to set the clock and stop times while wearing thick gloves.
Dial and strap
The structured dial is easy to find your way around. No extravagant design elements, no sub-dials, just the essentials. Clearly legible white Arabic numerals are printed on the black background. One exception is “12 o’clock”. Here you will find a triangle with two dots. In the past, it was mainly used to give pilots quick orientation.
In the dark, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire impresses with its fantastic luminous values. The minute and second hands as well as the 12 o’clock marking are coated with luminous material and guarantee the best legibility even in poor lighting conditions. A date window has been set in at 3 o’clock. There is also a stop function for the second hand.
Finally, let’s take a look at the strap. The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire with the reference IW326803 comes with a brown calfskin strap that couldn’t complete the aviator look better. The leather is excellently crafted and pleasant on the skin – it couldn’t be more comfortable to wear. That’s luxury too.
My conclusion on the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire
With the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire, the traditional manufacturer based in Schaffhausen hasn’t reinvented the wheel. But why should it? Does a watch always have to come up with groundbreaking revolutions to be really good? The answer is ‘no’, as IWC proves with its aviator line. Visually, the Big Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire is a timepiece that appeals with its reduced and classic design. Less is more here. And lovers of pilot’s watches should get their money’s worth.
IWC charges a lot for the entire package and has a recommended retail price of 5,050 euros. In the Horando shop you can save 10% and buy the watch for 4,550 euros. The new watch is delivered with box and papers and has an international manufacturer’s guarantee. You can find all the important links below.