The Big Pilot’s Replica Watch has remained unchanged from 2002 to the present day, although current versions encase the improved Caliber 51111. Like the Mark models, the Big Pilot’s Watch belongs to the Classic Collection, whose watches have casebacks engraved with an image of the classic Junkers Ju 52 aircraft. The watch has a strap crafted by the artisanal Italian shoe and leather goods manufacturer Santoni.
IWC is resuming its original diameter of 55 mm. With beige luminous material and a matte case, the newcomer’s style comes very close to its predecessor, even if it has a small seconds subdial; the original model had a central seconds hand.
All are equipped with a soft-iron inner case to protect the movement against magnetic fields – the predecessor lacked this practical detail. The 48-mm version has a little window in the caseback, which offers a view of the balance and, according to IWC Replica, scarcely detracts from the protection against magnetism.
IWC also offers an elegant version of the Big Pilot’s Watch in the Spitfire collection. Here the 46-mm case is made of rose gold, a sunburst pattern embellishes the anthracite-colored dial, and an engraving of a Spitfire fighter jet adorns the back.
This line also includes a version that features the useful complication of a digital annual calendar: the 46-mm Big Pilot’s Fake Watch Annual Calendar Spitfire is powered by manufacture Caliber 52850, which amasses a seven- day power reserve and can be admired through the sapphire back.
The Top Gun Big Pilot’s Copy Watch models combine a matte-black ceramic case and a textile-look wristband for a contemporary military touch that nonetheless preserves the other traditional characteristics. Here, too, a Big Pilot’s Watch is available in the classical 46-mm size. The titanium back bears the Top Gun emblem as a relief engraving. The wristband looks like it’s textile but is actually made of patterned calfskin for greater durability.
