In this pre-SIHH 2019 release the classic black double chronograph by IWC Schaffhausen gets a new design, while also being crafted by an innovative material. It seems as if their pilot’s collection will undergo some major alterations, as IWC revamps a wide range of their selections. Let’s take a first look at the new “Top Gun Ceratanium” edition.
Back in the 1990’s a major comeback was orchestrated for most of the pilot watches in the IWC lineup. Among them were the “Flieger Chronograph” and the “Big Pilot” models, which directly inspired the first iterations of the “Double Chronograph”, known as the “Doppel Chronograph” (Ref#: IW3711), which has now undergone a facelift and made available in one of the brands unique patented alloys.
IWC Pilot Doppel Chronograph (Ref#: IW3711), circa 1994 model
The 44mm case is made of ceratanium® with a screw on case-back. This innovative and patented alloy, which is a proprietary IWC material designated as “ceratinium” consists of a combination of titanium and ceramic. It manages to provide the lightweight and unbreakable qualities of titanium, plus the scratch-resistant qualities of ceramic. The case back has been engraved with a “Top Gun” logo an inscription that reads “UNITED STATES NAVY” and “FIGHTER WEAPONS SCHOOL”.
It comes equipped with two push-pieces on the left side of the with a riveted setting-crown in-between them. These pushers operate the chronograph functions, while a third pusher with a red highlight placed at the 10 o’clock position operates the second split-second counter. All topped by a black ceramic sapphire crystal with an arched edge and an anti-reflective coating on both sides. This crystal along with the screw-in setting crown assist in making this watch water-resistance up to 60 meters (196 feet).
Time is exhibited on a black dial with dark-gray rectangular hour index markers, followed by small thinner minute index markers, plus the iconic IWC triangle between two dots at the 12. There are three sub-dials: a 12-hour counter at the 6 o’clock position, a sub-seconds at 9 o’clock and a 30 minute counter at the 12 o’clock position. It also includes a two-window day and date aperture, aligned with the 3 o’clock position.
The central hands and sub-seconds hands are all dagger-shaped, while the thin split-seconds hands have been made in a luminescent grey hand and black red-tipped; to facilitate differentiation between them. All these dark-gray colored elements on the dial, make this the darkest “Top Gun” yet to be conceived by IWC. But, the central hands, sub-seconds and hour index markers have all undergone a luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility.
IWC Pilot’s Watch Double Chronograph Top Gun Ceratanium
This “IWC Pilot’s Watch Double Chronograph Top Gun Ceratanium” (Ref#: IW371815) is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 79320 with 29 jewels and 28,800 Vph. It is a valjoux based movement equipped with a split-seconds chronograph and a rattrapante. Power reserve on this watch can last up to 44 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted to the case is a black rubber strap with a textile inlay, while secured to the wrist by a ceratanium pin buckle. For more up to date information visit the official IWC website here.
MSRP: 14,400€ – Approximately $16,380.00 USD
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IWC Schaffhausen, IWC, Top Gun, Ceratanium, SIHH 2019, SIHH, Luxury Watches
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