When it comes to blending maximum robustness with timeless design, few brands do it better than Mercedes-Benz and IWC Schaffhausen, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer. Their respective G-Class SUV and Big Pilot’s Watch share a rich utilitarian heritage, emphasizing functionality and performance. Over the years, both have transformed into modern design icons, and now, to commemorate this legacy, IWC Schaffhausen introduces two special editions of the Big Pilot’s Watch: the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 in 18-carat Armor Gold® and the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 with a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case.
The G-Class from Mercedes-Benz and the Big Pilot’s Watch from IWC Schaffhausen share a common origin deeply rooted in utilitarian necessity. The G-Class was conceived to conquer the toughest off-road terrains while maintaining uncompromised performance. Likewise, the Big Pilot’s Watch was designed with a singular purpose: to be highly legible and robust. Both have evolved significantly, transcending their initial functional criteria to become symbols of excellence and sophistication.
The Ref. IW501201 edition of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 is a masterpiece in watchmaking. Its case and crown are crafted from 18-carat Armor Gold®, a revolutionary alloy that elevates gold’s hardness to unprecedented levels, making it exceptionally resistant to external influences. This alloy’s improved microstructure ensures durability far beyond that of conventional gold materials.
The watch’s design reflects the aesthetics of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition” with its black and gold color scheme. Sand-blasted surfaces and polished edges give it a contemporary and sophisticated character, reminiscent of the G-Class’s timeless appeal.
In a historic first for IWC, the Ref. IW506201 edition of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 features a cutting-edge ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case, developed in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR). Unlike traditional carbon-fiber reinforced polymers, CMC components are incredibly damage-tolerant and resistant to thermal shocks, making them ideal for applications requiring strength, lightness, and temperature resistance.
The process of crafting a CMC watch case involves pyrolysis, where a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer matrix is converted into carbon, leaving a dense weave of fibers within a porous carbon matrix. Silicon crystals are then applied, forming a new matrix of silicon carbide ceramic. The resulting matte black finish showcases a unique structure created by the embedded fibers, making each timepiece one-of-a-kind.
Both editions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 feature subdials reminiscent of the G-Class’s iconic headlights and a black dial embossed with a relief-like technical structure inspired by the air intakes of Mercedes-AMG performance cars. The appliqués on these special editions are PVD-coated in black and filled with luminous material, ensuring visibility even in low-light conditions.
Powering these exceptional timepieces is the IWC-manufactured 52010 caliber, a highly robust and precise automatic movement. Innovative zirconium oxide ceramic parts within the winding system ensure longevity and efficiency. Developed by Albert Pellaton during the 1940s, this self-winding mechanism uses rotor movements in both directions to accumulate a seven-day power reserve in two barrels. The movements are visible through tinted sapphire glass backs, reminiscent of the spare wheel cover on the G-Class.
The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 editions in 18-carat Armor Gold® and CMC are available through IWC boutiques or online at IWC.com. To provide peace of mind to discerning buyers, these timepieces are eligible for registration under the My IWC care program, offering a generous 6-year extension to the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty.
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