Even though it may not seem so at first glance due to differences in size, the similarities between wristwatches and automobiles are quite astonishing upon closer examination. Both embarked on their triumphant journey in the 20th century, inspiring engineers and watchmakers to achieve technical excellence by pushing the boundaries of performance. In addition, both symbolize progress and captivate with their perfection of design. This rings particularly true when they are presented as a team, with the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 from IWC Schaffhausen being the latest example.
Released as a tribute to an almost twenty years long partnership with Mercedes-AMG, the special edition comes in two 46.5mm versions clad in unusual cases, one crafted from 18-carat Armor Gold, the other with a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case that highlight the Swiss tradition manufacture’s prowess in engineering.
Both versions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 are powered by the IWC-manufactured 52010 caliber. Parts of the winding system that are subject to particularly high stress are manufactured from virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. Developed by IWC’s former Technical Director Albert Pellaton during the 1940s, the ingenious self-winding mechanism uses even the smallest movements of the rotor in both directions to build up a power reserve of seven days in two barrels. The movements are visible through tinted sapphire glass back, which feature a Mercedes-Benz star and are reminiscent of the spare wheel cover on the backside of the G-Class.
In addition to the Big Pilot’s characteristic power reserve display at 3 o’clock, both new editions feature a small second counter at 9 o’clock. The opposing subdials with external white rings imitate the typical headlights on the front side of the G-Class. The black dials are embossed with a relief-like technical structure inspired by the air intakes of Mercedes-AMG performance cars. Unlike the classic Big Pilot’s Watch, which has printed numerals and indices, these special editions feature appliques that have been PVD-coated in black and filled with luminous material.
Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 in Armor Gold: gold with increased resilience
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (Ref. IW501201) boasts a case and crown made of 18-carat Armor Gold, a black dial and a black rubber strap with microfiber inlay. The black and gold color code is inspired by the exterior paintwork and interior finishing of the recently launched Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition”. Armor Gold is an innovative alloy that elevates the hardness values of gold to a whole new level and makes this comparatively soft, precious metal much more resistant to external influences. Thanks to an improved microstructure, this special alloy is significantly harder and more wear-resistant than conventional 5N gold. The combination of sand-blasted surfaces and polished edges lends this Big Pilot’s Watch a classy, contemporary character.
Pricing for the Ref. IW501201 is marked at $33,400.
Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 in a CMC case: lightweight yet strong
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (Ref. IW506201) is the first IWC timepiece to feature a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case, engineered in close collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Unlike conventional carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, the fibers of this composite material are embedded in a matrix of ceramic rather than polymer. Therefore, CMC components are extremely damage-tolerant. Because they are also insensitive to thermal shocks, they are the material of choice for applications with extremely high requirements in terms of lightness, strength, and temperature resistance – from aerospace to the manufacturing of brake discs for sports and luxury cars.
The starting point for manufacturing a CMC watch case is a conventional carbon-fiber reinforced polymer. In a heat treatment called pyrolysis, lasting several days, the polymer matrix is converted to carbon, leaving behind a dense weave of fibers embedded in a porous carbon matrix. Subsequently, silicon crystals are placed on top of the component, and everything is heated in an oven. During this so-called siliconization, silicon is pulled into the cavities and chemically reacts with the carbon, forming a new matrix made of silicon carbide ceramic. After finishing with diamond tools, the CMC cases exhibit a matte black color and a unique structure determined by the fibers, making each piece truly unique.
Pricing for the Ref. IW506201 is marked at $42,400.
To learn more, visit IWC Schaffhausen, here.