IWC Schaffhausen BIG PILOT's WATCH. New 43 mm vs. "old" 46,2 mm.
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- Опубликовано: 10 июн 2021
- #IWC #PilotsWatch #BigPilot @iwcwatches
The Big Pilot’s Watch perfectly embodies IWC Schaffhausen's extensive heritage and expertise in engineering rugged and reliable instruments tailored to meet the needs of elite aviators. It exemplifies how a purely functional design can transform into a cultural icon. Today, the Big Pilot’s Watch is not only one of the most recognized watch designs in the world but also an expression of a certain character and mindset. This is what Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen, told me when he showed me the 43 mm watch in March this year the first time.
The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 (Ref. IW3293) is an authentic interpretation of the iconic design, without either a date window or a power reserve display, it features a 43 mm stainless steel case (Height: 13.6 mm / Lug-to-Lug: 53 mm / Weight: strap 114g , bracelet 159 g) for enhanced ergonomics and wearability. To offer you a direct comparison we filmed both, the new 43 mm and the regular "old" Big Pilot's watch with a diameter of 46,2 mm (Height: 15,5 mm / Lug-to-Lug: 57 mm / Weight: 145 g).
With the Big Pilot’s Watch 43, IWC has returned to the extreme purity of the original observation watch designed more than 80 years ago and created a simple three-hand watch with no other elements on the dial. Despite its reduced size, the 43 mm case combines a bold look with great wearing comfort.
Powering the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 is the IWC-manufactured 82100 calibre. The automatic movement has been engineered with a focus on maximum precision and reliability. It features the highly efficient automatic winding system developed by Albert Pellaton, which uses the rotor’s smallest movements in either direction to wind the mainspring. Components like the automatic wheel or the pawls that mesh with it are made of virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. The manufacturing of such small ceramic parts presents a huge engineering challenge. When fully wound, the mainspring stores 60 hours of power. The movement has been elaborately decorated with circular graining and can be observed through a sapphire glass back.
The new IWC EasX-CHANGE system has been developed with a focus on user-friendliness. It enables the wearer to quickly and easily change the strap and adapt the watch swiftly to different surroundings or activities. You can find a wide range of accessories, such as calfskin and rubber straps in attractive colors, as well as a new stainless steel bracelet with a fine adjustment clasp system for improved comfort and ergonomics at IWC boutiques or online at www.IWC.com. A reworked case construction also ensures the watch is now water-resistant to 10 bar. With this level of versatility, the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 is the perfect companion for just about any activity or setting.
Powering the Big Pilot’s Watch 46 is the IWC-manufactured 52110 calibre. It features an efficient Pellaton automatic winding system with parts made from black or white ceramic. With the help of two barrels, it builds up a reserve of 7 days (168 hours). The display at “3 o’clock” indicates the time remaining until the movement comes to a stop. The Big Pilot’s Watch has a date display at “6 o’clock” and the central seconds essential in any watch used for flying. The 46-millimetre case, which is water-resistant to 6 bar (60 meters), encloses a soft-iron inner case that protects the movement against magnetic fields. The watch also features a striking conical crown. 
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PLEASE do also read the description of this video! I am looking forward reading your comments and answering your questions ...
Thank you very much for *your* statement about the watch size discussion that's going on. I wholeheartedly agree with you that the important thing in buying a luxury watch is to choose the one you like most and not let other people decide what's right for you, because in the end you're the one who's going to be looking at it most so you better like it and not be sorry you didn't buy another one instead.
Bought the 43mm with Black Dial and Brown leather strap 3 weeks ago , just love it
Congratulations! Bravo 👏🏻! May your Big Pilot always show you HAPPY seconds, minutes and hours…
That’s the one I would have gone with too
That'd my favourite configuration 🔥
Hallo Alexander. Du sprichst mir soooo aus dem Herzen. Vor Jahren leistete ich mir die IWC Big Pilot bei einem Handgelenkumfang von "nur" 16.5cm. Ich finde, sie ist überhaupt nicht ZU gross und ich trage sie immer wieder gerne. Danke für deine tollen Beiträge und mach doch bitte weiter so.
Ein Uhrenkauf sollte immer emotional erfolgen und ja nicht rational… 😉 Möge Dir Deine Big Pilot‘s Watch auch weiterhin stets glückliche Sekunden, Minuten und Stunden anzeigen!
Thanks Alexander. Best in class review as always…👍..Looking forward to meeting up in Schaffhausen to experience these magnificent timepieces…
Thanks for sharing our passion and see you in Schaffhausen…
I agree with you, when I tried on the 46,2mm Big Pilot I became obsessed with it. Now it’s the next watch on my list. I only have a 17cm wrist, but it looks so good! Cheers!
Same wrist size as I have and yes, it looks so cool … Let me know if you have any questions…
I have been waiting for this. Thank you as always.
Our pleasure! Let me know if you have any questions…
Hi Alexander. Thanks so much for your outstanding content. As for the 43, I can’t think of a watch release in recent years that has been so thought out. This watch ticks all the boxes. It is a tool watch that requires no tools for sizing or changing the look. The engineering is incredible. Im a bracelet guy and the bracelet looks perfect, but that leather strap looks equally good. As I’m building my collection I know this watch will be part of it. Thanks again.
Love your passion! Once you will try it on your wrist you will even like it even more… the perfect ergonomics can’t be seen but only felt … let me know if you have any questions… And… thank you for the kind feedback! 😉
Amazing, love the size. Great job, IWC. Thank you for the excellent video review; as always
Thanks 🙏🏻 May I ask: which one would you choose?
Just bought the 43mm with blue dial and bracelet, my AD gave me the leather strap also as a gift , I love the watch , great video as usual by the way , thanks Graham.
Congratulations! Bravo! May your IWC Big Pilot's Watch always show you HAPPY seconds, minutes and hours... Thanks for sharing our passion!
HOw are you liking it 10 month in?
I bought the 43mm just today with the blue dial and the bracelet. I ordered the blue lether strap as well. It is a wonderful watch. I am so happy with it.
Congratulations! Bravo! May your IWC always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours…
Really great comparison video. Thank you 🙏. I bought the BP43 about 4-5 weeks ago and I love it
Nomen est omen! "Uhrenglueck" ... You are im Uhrenglück! Congratulations! May your Big Pilot always show you HAPPY seconds, minutes and hours ...
I think new, 43mm watch is really a nice alternative for many of us craving for a BIG Pilot, but having far too small a wrist to fit the 46mm ! Not only that, but with new model IWC gave us the option to make it look even more contemporary, with that nicely made and quite supple bracelet. 46mm will forever be THE BIG Pilot. But for many a buyer new, 43mm will be a realisation of a dream ! Great job IWC ! Great job ! And the video left no stone unturned ! Up to Alexander's usual high standards !
Love your comment! Thank you! Would you want to see a 46 mm in that clean and puristic design too? No date… no power reserve indicator…
@@WatchAdvisor Uhmmm... However much I prefer clean, uncluttered dials, I am afraid that 46mm would be too much of a real estate to be without any additional markings on the dial. Besides, Power Reserve subdial is really extremely useful! But, yes, it would be, at least, interesting to see 46mm version stripped off any additional signs on the dial.
The original Big Pilot’s Watch calibre 52 T.S.C. (Ref. IW431) was developed in the 1940s to meet the strict requirements set out for military observation watches... later it inspired the design of the Big Pilot’s Watch. With a case diameter of 55 mm, a height of 16.5 mm and a weight of 183 grams, it is the largest wristwatch that IWC has created to date. The minimalist dial, designed to resemble easy-to-read cockpit instruments, and the striking conical crown, which was simple to use even for pilots wearing their quilted flight gloves, continue to influence the design of the modern Big Pilot’s Watch to this day.... I would want to see a 46,2 mm version 1:1 with that unique dial just described above ...
Love the lume on it. I have it on bracelet. I also have the titanium big pilot (also lumed at all Arabic numerals). The 3 mm difference is meaningful. The little pilot always felt small to me so this 43 is perfect for getting big pilot legibility with a watch that can be worn with long sleeves. Great review again Alexander!
Thanks for your feedback and sharing our passion! May your Big Pilot’s watch always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours …
I do appreciate you showing us the features of the straps and bracelette - I would not have known of these capabilities otherwise. I have had an eye on the Big Pilot since I started collecting and I would prefer the 43 over the 46 for it's clean dial and the whole numbers at 2 and 4. If the 46.2mm had the same face as the 43, I would go for the larger watch to be closer to the dimensions of a vintage piece. The sunburst blue is also a big plus for me as it 'announces' it's presence in the sunlight better than black. Now I need to stare at my AD's page and decide between the Pilot Chronograph or the Big Pilot 43.
I am happy to read this! It is good be spoilt for choice … 😉 Let me know if you have any questions…
Thank you so much for this review. Personally I love the 46mm one. It’s probably to big for my 7 inch wrist but still love it. I also love the date and power reserve complication. I don’t know why other reviewers get so offended by the date and power reserve on the watch. I especially want a date on my watches and the power reserve is a great modern addition. Again thank you for the great review.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us. Well I can’t speak for others… and I don’t care what they say/think… for me the Big Pilot’s watch in its original size is the coolest one… my wrist is 17 cm/6,7 in and I would definitely wear it…
Once again a great review Alexander, great photography and description of the watches. On paper specifications the 46mm would get my choice, on video I would look at the 43mm. I think like you I would need to see both side by side on my wrist. The one week power reserve of the 46 is very useful as is the power reserve indicator if you swap watches and do not have a winder box handy to feed it some energy. The date complication at 6 (my personal preferred position if a watch has a date) is well executed as well, the black on white balances somewhat the 12 marker on the dial. I'm not too bothered about swapping straps either but the facility would be nice. The 43 nudges it for me (without seeing both watches in the flesh) as it's a cleaner dial, super readable and a little thinner. I have no issue with bigger watches on my 7" wrist as I'm to happy to wear my Omega Seamaster 44mm chrono with no issue, That one is heavy and I'm sure my left arm is now longer than my right arm. Both watches I think are worth consideration. I forgot to mention I love the sun burst dials on both.
By downsizing the Big Pilot’s Watch with its clean, puristic dial IWC hit the nail… not only men are now interest wearing it but also women… I got some very positive feedback during the days I was sporting the new 43 mm … I own a Portugieser but not a Big Pilot’s Watch yet … if I would buy one I would still choose the 46 mm
Fabulous review and comparison, so well presented. I have the full size version ref. 5004 and I love it, that said however if the 43mm version had been available 10 years ago when I bought mine I would have most likely got that one as my wrists are on the smaller side. Also I love the display case back. Have to say that the new strap and bracelet design are excellent. I would never wear a bracelet on mine, but I think the micro adjustment has been implemented brilliantly and the quick release on the strap and bracelet is very well done as is the link removal. Fantastic engineering.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts with us....
best review loved it thank you!
You are very welcome 🙏🏻! Which one is your favorite?
I have on my wrist as I type the Pilot's watch by IWC in the 36mm version...I really enjoy this watch and was a hard watch to track down..but my local AD had one in stock..im a happy camper with this watch
Well done! May your IWC always show you HAPPY seconds, minutes and hours!
I bought this watch thanks to your detailed review.
Congratulations! Bravo! May your IWC continue to always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours… Please share some thoughts with us…
Vielen Dank für das tolle Video. Ich habe einen Handgelenkumfang von 17cm. Ich trage eine Navitimer mit 46mm. Hatte es mir anfangs auch überlegt ob ich die Größe wirklich tragen soll. Aber du hast vollkommen Recht. Man muss sich trauen und dazu stehen. Es war auch bei mir eine total emotionale Entscheidung.
Das Warten hat nun ein Ende. Morgen hole ich in Zürich meine Big Pilot Le petit prince 46mm ab. Freue mich riesig.
Nochmal danke für das tolle Video. Liebe Grüsse aus der Schweiz, Semih
Sehr cool! Ja, mit 17 cm ist man gut dabei. Die Big Pilot sieht einfach gut aus. Sie ist mehr ein cooles Instrument, als eine klassische "Armbanduhr" und das darf ruhig ein wenig grösser sein... Die letzten Stunden bis zu dem Moment wo Du sie dann erstmals in den Händen hältst, die werden vermutlich gar nicht vergehen ... aber wie heisst es doch so schön: Vorfreude ist schönste Freude... Melde Dich mir Feedback ... freue mich darauf...
I enjoyed the video Alexander. My wife bought the 43mm black dial with brown leather. She loves it and I wear it sometimes 😃
Wonderful story! Thanks for sharing... May your IWC continue to always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours...
Another great video from Alex.
Thank you!
Dankeschön für das Video. Es hat meine Kaufentscheidung für die Uhr positiv beeinflusst. Nächste Woche darf ich meine IWC500402 in Empfang nehmen 🥳
Das freut mich ungemein! Danke für Dein Feedback! Bitte teile später Deine Erfahrungen mit Deinem "Flieger" mit uns... Ich wünsche Dir jetzt schon, dass Dir Deine IWC stets nur glückliche Sekunden, Minuten und Stunden anzeigt...
Great video Alexander and a very well balanced review of both watches. I have just ordered the the Big Pilot 43 in blue on the bracelet together with the blue and brown straps. I used to own the 46mm Big Pilot and loved it, the only issue being that its size prevented it from being a daily wearer and it seldom made the rotation. Then what did IWC do? They released the 46mm Big Pilot with a green dial! Wow!!! I think this is going to get expensive for me with the fantastic recent releases from IWC :-)
Love your comment, it is loaded with emotions and passion! Congratulations for ordering the 43 mm. Once you have it PLEASE share some thoughts with us... until then - also for a possible buy of the green 46 mm - enjoy ... since the greatest pleasure lies in the anticipation! 😉
It’s a great start for the BP43, I am looking forward to the future when this one can also have an 8 day movement and a power reserve indicator and maybe a Date.
I am not sure if IWC will ever offer the 43 mm with these features …
@@WatchAdvisor one can hope, but I understand that differentiation between models is important
Everything is possible in the future, of course... The "Ingenieur" now will be the next big surprise from IWC ...
Beautiful!!!
Saludos!
Grazias!
Excellent video, wasn’t sure if the 46 was a bit big but like you say it’s a statement watch
Of course it is HUGE … but this is what the Big Pilot’s Watch is … Nomen est omen!
Nice video Alexander. I will try out the 43 mm for sure. I've never considered the 46 mm because it's just too big for my taste, but the 43 mm might be a winner
Please share your thoughts with us once you’ve done it…
The 43 is very nice and with the bracelet very dressy. For me that 46mm is just the real thing and just looks fabulous, especially on that wonderful brown leather strap.
Size matters in this case! The only way to wear a Big Pilot IMHO… Nomen est omen! 😜
@@WatchAdvisor Just so! I am wearing the GO Sea Q . Panorama Datum. I purchased this watch following your wonderful videos on the making and testing of the piece. It was a present for my 60th from my wife. I have the piece with blue dial and canvas strap. I think it looks and feels very tool like and made to be worn doing anything. I think the bracelelt would have been my choice had it been brushed all over, the very blingy and dressy polished mid links make it far too much for me, though I will agree the bracelelt is a work of art in itself. Many thanks for your youtube channel. I appreciate your effort and input and always look forward to your new posts.
I enjoy the review very much, high quality and great wearability reference for wrist below 7 inches. I hope they have full brushed finishing bracelet which IMO will go better than 2 tone finishing one for the black dial version.
Thanks for sharing your passion! Would you also wear the 46 version? Just curious… 🤔
@@WatchAdvisor I was a big pilot(46mm) owner, I like the look very much, but be honest it couldn't sit on my wrist nicely, so no for me as a daily watch, but yes I agree the 46mm version is much of a "statement watch" than this new release.
I like your attitude, for me I like the 46 dial more but I'm nervous of size, the 43 has 100m and display back which is also nice.....
I'd like the 46 mm with the 43 mm dial...
Conflicted on this one. Positives: 1) Finally decent application of lume! A flieger should be all about legibility and that includes at night, why doesn't the 46 have this? It's literally, the only thing stopping buying one. 2) The size is much more manageable for most people, especially as an everyday watch. 3) I like a display case back.
Negatives 1). I know the purists will disagree here, but I really like a date complication and given the real estate, this watch looks a little empty without. 2). The PR makes me think big Mark, rather than smaller Big Pilot. Maybe that's silly, but I can't shake the feeling that it owes far more to the much cheaper watch.
Great content as always.
Interesting remarks on the “Mark” watch! Concerning the date I disagree. The new 43 mm looks gorgeous, so clean and pure… I wish IWC did a 46 mm in that reduced look …
I pulled the trigger on the 43mm blue dial with bracelet. It's the most comfortable watch I own! I was worried about the anti-magnetic properties, or perhaps lack thereof, but so far the watch has kept time within 4 seconds a day.
Thanks for sharing! May your IWC continue to always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours!
I like the 43mm w/o date and like the crystal in the case back (if its got gears, ya gotta see them); though, IWC should extend the power reserve (seems everyone else is doing it) and add a small indicator (even my Orient Echo has that [talk about a clock on the wrist, the Echo is a wrist watch in the pocket]), and lastly, for magnetic protection, just add some silicon components to cure that bugaboo.
The patents protecting the development of the silicon hairspring (Patek Philippe, Rolex, Swatch Group and Ulysse Nardin) will end 2022/2023 … only the IWC (Richemont) can use silicon hairsprings they might have developed meanwhile … until then magnetic protection stays pretty weak for the entire group’s watches …
Nice review. Both are fantastic. I like the old one because "Big pilot" should be big. But the new one has friendly size. As a IWC fans, I think I should buy both of them.
Which dial color would you choose? And for the 43 mm … bracelet or strap?
@@WatchAdvisor I already have three 46.3mm Big Pilot's watches(two black, one green dial) so I'll choose green or blue dial for my next one.
For 43mm , absolutely strap for Pilot's watches.
I agree with your assessment 100%! I tried on the 43mm version and to me, It seemed more like the big brother of the Mark XVIII instead of the little brother of the Big Pilot. Is the Big Pilot too big for my wrist (17cm/6.6in)?....yes. Do I care?... no. Does my wife love it?....yes!
There we go! Driven by emotions and not ratio... BRAVO! Love your comment!
Awesome review. The iconic pilot watch that is no doubt the most recognisable design. 43mm for the versatility of easy strap/bracelet change and see through cashback. 46mm for the purity. Both if one can afford them. Wall clock analogy is from a hobbit, human with passion for watch not apply. Great one Alexander. 👌
Love your comment! Thanks for sharing our passion!! Which dial colors would you choose?
@@WatchAdvisor blue... my favourite colour on 43mm, 46mm can be in black.
I am a HUGE fan of blue, but the 46 mm IMHO must be black ... the 43 can also be blue ...
@@WatchAdvisor sounds like a good plan. 👍
If the new 43mm had the dial font of the 5002, I’d be wearing one right now! I like the new look but for me, there’s just something about the 5002 that’s so 🤩 to me.
Can you specify what you mean? The font is the same…
@@WatchAdvisor yes the 5002 Big Pilot 46mm version had the more vintage style font for the hour markers and dashes. I much prefer that look to the modern numerals like on the newer 46 and 43mm versions. They still look amazing but I just love the older numeral font better, hope that clears that up :)
@@whitepony101 I hear you! Thanks for clarifying...
Thank you. Any idea of how precise these movements are?
Even though not officially certified better than COSC for sure and COSC demands -4/+6 seconds per day …
I just bought the 43mm the black dail 🔥🔥
Congratulations! Bravo! Thanks for sharing! May your IWC always show you happy seconds, minutes and hours…
The 43mm Big Pilot is fire but the 46mm remains "the" Big Pilot.
Yesssss 👍🏼
Thanks for the video, already like the video, one question, the dial of these two watches is same ? Or there are slightly different in blue?
Yes! The 46 mm blue seems to be a little darker… I will verify this officially and come back to you …
You have such a great range of watches and brands on this channel. Always great to see detailed reviews.
The 43mm will sell well. It’s reasonably priced and the dial is gorgeous. The lume is far better than the 46mm.
I still don’t see how anyone with a body mass less than pro wrestlers or strongmen buy watches as large as the 46mm Big Pilot or the large Breitling Avengers. Strap them on your biceps like the WW2 pilots used to do and you won’t get any overhang!
My wrist is 17 cm … and yes, you can wear that 46 mm watch … over the years I got used wearing bigger and bigger watches …
@@WatchAdvisor I’ll try it next time I go to the AD. I can wear panerai, but not the old cases, but as you say, it may be a state of mind!
Please share your thoughts afterwards…
I hope IWC start using display case back instead of solid case back in their pilot’s watches line up.
as an enthusiast i personally enjoy looking at the movement.
They will for sure as soon Richemont can use silicon hairsprings and magnetism is no longer an issue…
@@WatchAdvisor If I buy a big pilot 43, do you think when I service IWC will put in a silicone hairspring if they update the caliber? Does that make sense? I don't think they'd release a new movement, just change the hairspring.
Looks good! Will explore.
43 or 46 mm?
43. Beauty is in simplicity
I hear you! Would you also want a 46 mm with the same "pure" dial?
@@WatchAdvisor no. Too big for me I think.
@@chrisk105 👍🏼
In my mind, both the Big Pilot and the Portuguese Perpetual Calendar comes in a 7-day movement. The new smaller versions with 2-3 day PR just doesn't seem right.
Not surprised IWC is doing this though, they introduced the smaller 40mm Portuguese Automatic in 2019 that didn't have the 7-day movement.
IWC is seeking for more possible wrists to put their watches on … 😉 All IWC watches with that gorgeous 7-day-calibre are quite big as you know…
Nice review!
Which one would you choose?
@@WatchAdvisor for me I would go with the original 46mm. Just class.
As usual, most excellent presentation. And, yes, who cares what the size of the watch is? If you like the watch, then go for it! I love watches. Of all sizes. I prefer the 43mm, not because of the size, but because it is so close aesthetically to the original. I have been hoping for years that IWC will introduce a watch with no date. I have looked at both many, many times at the Boutique. I love both of them. I also will only wear it on a leather strap. Matter of fact, I believe nobody makes a pilot strap better than IWC. I find the new movement to be a work of art. Normally, I prefer a solid case back. In this case, the movement begs to be seen. There have been improvements made to some parts of the movement, to improve anti magnetism. To the point where IWC feels the inner cage is no longer necessary. Some of the parts are also now ceramic, to save on wear and tear, and make lubrication no longer necessary. Also, I love how not only the rotor is skeletonized, but also the bridges. Most of the components are now visible. One other point of interest that my friend at the Boutique pointed out. Something I have never seen on any other movement. When you unscrew the crown, the winding of the watch is also in counter clockwise direction. The time you move the crown clockwise is when you screw the crown back in. I love how the watch looks on the wrist. To me, it still has the wrist presence of the larger watch, no mistake that it is an IWC Big Pilot. I do love this watch! Thank you again for your great presentation! Cheers, Carl
Carl, thanks for sharing your thoughts & passion with us ... I love your comment! There is not much I can add 😉 BRAVO! You described almost everything that should be mentioned with the new Pilot's Watch 43 mm ... Just in case you have any specific question, please let me know ...
@@WatchAdvisor Quick question: I just tried this at the boutique yesterday and asked about how the 43 could be antimagnetic without the soft iron case and without a silicon hairspring. The boutique manager told me that they DO NOT market this one as antimagnetic, and in fact the website also does not mention it. So... a pilot watch that's not antimagnetic?
@@benbrustis8887 The guy at least didn’t lie to you! In fact this is a pilot’s watch without advanced protection against magnetic fields. There is some basic protection of course, but for sure not sufficient for today’s daily use… strong magnetic fields are everywhere and they are getting stronger and more …
@@WatchAdvisor Yeah so that is a bit disappointing I have to say... it's like buying a diver that's not water resistant! Even if you never dive with it, one of the basic requirements is that it must be water resistant. One of the requirements of a pilot watch is to be anti-magnetic, yet this one is not (for the most part). So they prioritize the luxury aspect (viewing the movement, polished bracelet center links...) over the tool aspect of the watch. I know it makes commercial sense, but then put in a silicon hairspring and solve the problem some other way! Or give us a solid case back as an option.
@@TOKKANTE The Richemont group does NOT have acces to silicon hairsprings! Only Patek Philippe, Rolex (Tudor), the entire Swatch Group and Ulysse Nardin do. They developed them and share the patents. The protection of silicon hairsprings by patents will end 2023. Only then all other manufacturers can start using them… IWC will for sure start too, but not before 2024…
Thanks for showing the new IWC Pilot 43mm, Alexander. I had it on the wrist just this week at the IWC shop in Zurich. Nice piece but with the bracelet 9900 swiss francs too expensive for a simple 3 hand watch with no other complication. I woudnt' buy it for around 6000-7000 thousend but not more.
The price is something… yes! But it is what it is … IWC can charge such amounts and will still sell the watch… so why not doing it?
Wait till you find out what AP, VC, Patek, Lange charge lol
@@bombazine2 Come on. You compare IWC with Lange or Patek. Really?
@@sadaka201 no I merely used your analogy that a 3 hand watch should be cheaper than a complication. the best way to buy an IWC (and I have 2) is on the used market but still with plenty of warranty left.
Excellent video thanks, I admire the simple look and heritage of the big pilot watches. I would like to get one for my 40th birthday so this video was very helpful. I will subscribe and watch your other videos. If you don't mind me asking what size is your wrist?
The size of my wrist is 17 cm. Let me know if you have any other question... Thanks for subscribing and sharing our passion!
I think I prefer the Longines Spirit 40mm or the Oris big crown. If you want alternative blue pilots watches in scale with normal wrists try Sinn 556 in blue.
Why not! But I think none of the watches mentioned can really replace the IWC Big Pilot's Watch ...
The 43 really looks like an orphan but we know that is something that is attacking the Rollie no date sub and the Omega seamaster no date , JLC polaris no date , breitling chronomat 46. These are designed for rugged full use watches. I vote for 46
Welcome to the club! 😜
refreshing. what about nylon nato straps? -my favourite for daily wear
I would wear with a Nato strap - yes!
Hello, 43mm it's coming in the real world , I wrote some time "de gustibus non discutandum" but this dimension is really for everyone! nice video!
The 43 mm can also be worn by women … I saw the watch on several women’s wrists the least days and I must admit it looked very cool …
I like the 43 mm look more elegant. Regards Alexander !!!
Of course… that’s true…
🔥👌
🙏🏻🙌🏻
Hope there will be a green version of the new 43 in the future🤩
That color is so popular… So I expect IWC to deliver soon …
@@WatchAdvisorWhen it comes out, it will be on my list of possible watches for my 40th birthday
Not sure what leather strap colour for 43mm version... thanks!
I always prefer matching colors...
A rubber strap would be nice for people in hot climates or in the summer (certainly both). It's not just about going swimming.
Rubber straps are already or will be available very soon…
Thank you for the excellent video Alexander! Also just watched your New Omega Speedmaster Professional Moonwatch video and loved it. I am trying to decide between Big Pilot 43 on a bracelet and the Moonwatch as an everyday watch. Could you please share your view?
Thank you kindly.
This is a VERY difficult question! Can you try them both the same time and compare them in different light settings? Then let your heart decide… it won’t lie… Please keep us posted!
Will do. Thank you Alexander.
Any idea where I can get the metal bracelet? Doesn't appear available on IWC website. Weird
Where are you based?
Alexander you are right both are ok, but as a previous 46mm owner, watch is legendary and beautiful but that size is too big and after some time it becomes huge minus for daily wearing... I sold mine only because of that and it was for second time, size was just over me.
I hear you! What sizes do yo wear on a daily base?
@@WatchAdvisor generally 39 & 40mm mainly Rolex, also 44mm Ap but don’t feel comfortable for long with that…
one question to the "old" 46mm big pilot: is the date/datewheel misaligned on porpuse? everytime i see the big pilot, it seems that the date is off. even on iwc`s homepage you can see that on the 46mm the date is off?! i mean, there must be a reason for it right? :)
Can you specify this? I don’t see what you see - sorry!
What do you think of the green face in 46mm?
I know green is getting more and more popular ... So, why not? As written here before, I personally would only want the 46 mm with a black dial ...
Great video, how big is your wrist?
17 cm
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The Big one rules. :-) Ahhh but wouldnt it be nice to be able to have both?
I fully agree - both would be it… which dial colors would you choose?
@@WatchAdvisor In the 43 cm, either the Blue or Black, with the bracelet. Both look stunning.
In the 46.3 its the Green Dial (surprise, surprise).
The 41 mm and 46.2 mm in The Bronze Spitfires are very nice.
Oh well looks like it will be a while before they get to OZ...just a small market at the bottom of the world
Confusing to read that the IWC novelties did not yet arrive in Australia ... 😳
@@WatchAdvisor well weather they or other ways novelties have arrived or not. The sad thing is that when you ring dealers they say mostly nothing is available, expecting shi[ments later.
It maybe because of back orders being filled, because of the Covid....I dont know.
At least we have toilet paper :-(
I would 100% wear the 43mm one.
Good choice of course … that watch really fits perfectly on the wrist … IWC improved the wearability of such a size a lot …
Great content! Pls review the new 43 pilot spitfire please… 🙏
Thank you very much! I will see what we can do... not planed in the moment
@@WatchAdvisor thank you so much.
Like your content, that take your time showing all important things about the watch, not just this video, other watch video also… keep up the good work.
Just my own opinion, the new one needs the Power Reserve as the dial looks empty without it. The old larger one does look better with the power reserve complication.
Thanks for sharing!
@@WatchAdvisor They are super watches, always better in the hand.
43 with a thin bezel wear very large. 46 wears like a dinner plate. Will reserve judgement but that MkXVIII at 40 is probably just right for me. Still, excited to get that biggish pilot on the wrist. What about the box? It’s a bloody massive box for the biggish pilot. Haha!
Once you had it on your wrist, please share your thoughts with us…
Hi Alexander,
Why is big pilots 43 more expensive than the pilots Chronograph 43 which has red seconds hand at 6oclock?
Please help
Good question! I don’t know… I assume it is the wanted price positioning of the watch…
if the 43 had the power reserve & date it would great, but without, I wouldn't want it.
The 43 mm picks up the original net design of the watch that was originally designed for pilots … time only and perfect readability…
@@WatchAdvisor Oh I know, but I love the power reserve & date features... just wish they were on the 43mm I would have already ordered one.
Die 43 mm ist genau so sexy wie die "Große", aber wohl besser tragbarer. Schön sind beide.
Axel aus Halle
Es gibt jetzt definitiv keine Ausrede mehr keine zu kaufen 😉
It's strange to me that the Big Pilot 46 is considered an icon when it was only released in 2002. The 43 is actually more authentic to the model the 46 is based on. Neither are the original 55mm size. The lack of power reserve and date makes the 43 a truer heir to the original model, IMHO. That being said, I can completely understand why the bigger model is preferred by many, but they can't say it's more authentic than the 43.
The 46 is closer in size, the BP is all about the size, so in this case the size supersedes the clean face of the 43 being closer to the original. Again, it's all about the size, hence "Big" Pilot. The 43 is nice, it's clean, wears pretty large, but it doesn't set off that Bombastic alarm that the 46 does. 43 is a lifestyle watch.
The 46 started the big watch trend of the naughties and was technically very unique in that market. Its going strong since then and no end in sight. You could even argue it survived its own trend! Remarkable - this cements its status as an icon.
About 38- 40mm is plenty. I need only the date reference at 3/6 o’clock. 46mm will interfere with a dress shirt or jacket & 14mm is too thick. I have poor vision and I can see clearly a 40mm face especially w/large white numerals on a dark face. I don’t need a reserve indicator or chrono. Beautiful watch! 👍
I know this is rude, but no one cares
sounds like the Mark XX would be perfect for you. 40mm x 10.6mm thickness, date at 3:00
it actually makes me laugh people "cry" about the big pilots size. There both amazing watches i think IWC make the best pilot watches in the world.
Why worry? The name of the watch is: “Big Pilot’s Watch” … Nomen est omen!
For me, only the 46
Yesssss 👍🏼
Nice watch on the bracelet, can’t see £8000 there though,no way.
It is IWC Schaffhausen, it is an in-house calibre and an iconic “Flieger”-design… Well, 1+1+1=3
46! All day.
True! Is also my choice! thanks for sharing our passion!
What’s ur wrist size ? Thanks
17 cm
Hi Alexander hope you are well, Which colour dial did you prefer? Hope to catch up soon
Well that’s not easy to answer… blue or black for me … the 46 mm should be black the 43 can also be blue…
WatchAdvisor doesn’t really help???
@@thebeardedyorkshireman8368 Tastes are different! So hard to tell therefore… 🤷🏻♂️
WatchAdvisor did you find the blue too flashy for a big pilot tool watch?
@@thebeardedyorkshireman8368 For me the Big Pilot’s watch should be black… it is more a technical instrument than a watch…
I like it but I have to point out the obvious…. The lugs are too small for the case. If IWC made a time only 46mm Big Pilot then ok. I get it, but something just doesn’t match in regards to proportion design. The 46mm is pushing the limits for my wrist (really the 50/52mm lug to lug) but I know it suppose to be large. This 43mm is almost there but it just doesn’t do it for me. With Pilot watches you either go 40mm or 46mm, no in between
Interesting comments on the watches… thanks for sharing!
With big beautiful crowns like that, it is a shame they're not handwound like the original B-Uhr.
You still can wind it from time to time, but I understand your thoughts…
You can still hand-wind it if you want to though right? Handwinding is first crown position, no? Even though it is in fact an automatic.
@@Gii1234 Yes, but it’s not necessary to wind an automatic watch very often. Also, a hand wound movement without a rotor would have meant that the case could have been thinner and not as tall on the wrist.
@@CaptCanuck4444 mmmm yeah totally true. Although I wonder why they are so thick. Iwc has made automatic movements that are much much thinner why are these so thick?
where can you purchase these straps?
Via the IWC website or worldwide through ADs and IWC boutiques ...
@@WatchAdvisor the IWC website says unavailable
What's ur wrist size? Thanks!
17 cm / 6,7 in
I would like to see the 43 mm next to Longines Spirit 40 or 42
Why? How do you compare them?
@@WatchAdvisor just for size comparison!
I hear you! Unfortunately I can’t help… 🤷🏻♂️
@@WatchAdvisor its ok! Your videos are always Great!
Can you tell us your wrist size, please? That will give us a comparative view!
17 cm / 6,7 in
@@WatchAdvisor I have the EXACT same size wrist. I had the BP 46 on today and it looked fine. It's a statement piece I agree, but admitedly the 43 is more comfortable and easier to sneak under a shirt cuff. Anyone looking at a Big Pilot is a risk taker, you buy the 43 you will always wonder if you should have bought the 46. 😉
@@jc51373 I have 7-1/4” wrist and the 43mm plenty big for me. Prefer 40mm - not 46
It's mention not to change date between 2100-0300hrs....??
Yes, some calibres do not feature this particular security that you can change the date whenever you want…
There is a spelling error in the title: It should read "IWC Schaffhausen TOO BIG PILOT's WATCHEs."
Hahaha 😂
The best bit? Legibility. Legibility at a glance. If you need reading spectacles to read the time don’t worry, you’re just registered blind. People can read the time from that watch not just from across the room, but also from space. Deep space. Another Galaxy. They can’t see the Earth but they know it’s 10:10. It’s. Clean look. Purists will approve, but when pared down sometime less isn’t more. Sometimes character is lost. Again, I’ll reserve judgment until that bad boy is lowered onto my welcoming flesh.
The 46 mm redefines the meaning of reading time from a wrist watch … as you wrote it is more a public sharing of time … the antidote to a smartphone, an analog communication tool with family, friends, neighbors, people on the streets, anyone watching us either from earth or space … gives you back the “privilege” of distributing time… in the very early days this was done by the aristocracy and church…
This big Big Pilot is unfortunately too big for my wrist of 15.5-16 cm. Dont get me wrong, I have a bigger diameter Zenith type XX but it's lug to lug is shorter than that of the IWC. Zenith wire lugs curl down whereas IWC stick out. The small Big Pilot looks the look but unfortunately lacks in technological prowess, the big elephant in the room being the absence of that special 7 day power reserve movement. If they make the small Big Pilot at least 5 days power reserve, then we can consider it a worthy alternative. Until then it's like comparing Adidas to Adibas, Nike to Nice or Coca-Cola to Coka-Kola ;)
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us! The new 43 mm version is more a lifestyle watch and therefore I don't think anyone cares about the calibre used ... IMHO if you say IWC "Big Pilot" it MUST be the 46,2 mm ...
Tnx for this video. 46 > 43 => 46 it is.
Thanks for sharing!
I like you Said you like big one 46.2 big pilot. :D
In fact that’s the one I would choose…
Did u know if the new EasX-Change can suit the old models ??
Yes! All the technology is in the bracelet/strap. On the watch case you need to change the springbar though …
@@WatchAdvisor so cool, do u know so for the old 43mm which i should ask 41 o 43 mm new model strap ?.
The 43 has a 21mm lug width .. the 46 is 22mm
No the EasyX is NOT compatible with the watches not designed for it. The hole the spring bar sits in is a different size. It's not a matter of just swapping spring bars unfortunately. I put this question in front of IWC. I like the EasX concept and in my limited experience it seems nice. I do however question it's long term reliability.
The BIGEST Question is black dial or blue ?lol
That’s a good one! I’d choose black for 46 mm and blue for the 43 mm …
Yeah, the 46mm looks good...when half way up your forearm!
Tastes are different! 😉 Therefore IMHO the discussion about what can one wear or not is much ado about nothing…
Prefer the 43 mm because it is without date.
The clean design is cool! What if IWc would offer this clean dial in a 46 mm? Would you be interested?
Honestly thought I read somewhere that this new movement was antimagnetic.
Which one? The Richemont Group has NO access to silicon hairsprings, so all brands of the group can't really manufacture anti-magnetic calibres ... The "old" and classic hairspring is the flaw of all the existing calibres of the group ...
@@WatchAdvisor Thank you.
@@WatchAdvisor it was a Fratello article. “Magnetism is no longer a big threat
Interestingly, the soft-iron inner case to fend off disturbing magnetic fields is absent. The automatic in-house 4Hz caliber 82100 with Pellaton winding mechanism has been fortified with ceramic and silicon components making it naturally more resistant to magnetic influence.
It has a power reserve of sixty hours and comprises 192 components of which some are decorated with Côtes de Genève and perlage. How do I know? Because the movement is visible through a sapphire case back. So unlike its big brother and the original watch from eighty years ago, there’s no obstructing inner case.
I wanted to know whether this movement was entirely anti-magnetic, so I asked IWC CEO Chris Grainger-Herr. “No, the movement is not made entirely from anti-magnetic materials,” he responded. “We didn’t want to create a completely new anti-magnetic caliber, but the use of modern materials has contained the threat of magnetic disturbances sufficiently. And therefore we opted for an open case back.”
I’ve also seen it say somewhere that there is still a soft iron rim in the case. Could the balance wheel possibly be made from silicone and the hairspring made from something else nonferrous? Finding it hard to find any definitive information.
@@RyanF91W The use of a classic hairspring (even though the quality has improved over the years) is the BIG flaw of that calibre (and all others on the market) … Yes, you can add other non-magnetic materials to the movement, but they are in the end not the ones being responsible for the accuracy of the calibre. It is the hairspring! If the latter does not “breathe” correctly, the watch will not perform…
@@WatchAdvisor how can a non silicon hair spring be a flaw? We ll talk about that in 15 years when the watch world has moved on from silicon and all the pretty lvmh or swatch group silicon filled movement will be irreparable...
A watch should be able to withstand the test of time...
The 43 is so much nicer to look at and wear
Have you had the chance to try it on your wrist already?
@@WatchAdvisor No
You should! 😉