iwc sihh 2019 | New Pilot's Watches Collection launched at SIHH 2019

The Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie (SIHH), now known as Watches & Wonders, is a horological extravaganza, a showcase of the finest watchmaking the world has to offer. The 2019 edition was no exception, and among the dazzling displays, IWC Schaffhausen made a particularly strong statement with their revitalized focus on the Pilot’s Watch collection. SIHH 2019 became synonymous with IWC's dedication to aviation heritage, technical innovation, and refined aesthetics, cementing their position as a leader in the pilot's watch segment.

This article will delve into IWC's SIHH 2019 offerings, focusing on the new Pilot's Watches Collection that took center stage. We'll explore the specific models, the design choices, the movements powering these timepieces, and the overall impact of IWC's presentation at the prestigious event. Consider this your comprehensive guide to IWC's SIHH 2019 collection, drawing from exclusive articles, reviews, videos, and the unveiling of all the new timepieces from that year.

A Year Dedicated to the Skies: The Pilot's Watch Reigns Supreme

IWC's SIHH 2019 presentation made it abundantly clear: the Pilot’s Watch was the star of the show. Instead of spreading their resources across multiple collections, IWC strategically focused on refining and expanding their iconic line. This commitment to a single theme resulted in a cohesive and compelling narrative, resonating strongly with both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the IWC brand.iwc sihh 2019

The emphasis on the Pilot's Watch was not merely a marketing ploy. IWC has a long and storied history with aviation, dating back to the 1930s when they supplied timepieces to pilots. This historical connection lends authenticity and gravitas to the collection, making it more than just a series of watches; it's a celebration of the pioneering spirit of flight.

The New IWC Pilot's Watches Launched at SIHH 2019: A Closer Look

At SIHH 2019, IWC didn't just launch a few new models; they presented a full-fledged collection, showcasing various interpretations of the Pilot's Watch theme. The collection can be broadly divided into two key pillars: the Spitfire line and the Classic Pilot's Watches.

* The Pilot’s Watch Spitfire Collection: This collection paid homage to the legendary Supermarine Spitfire, the iconic British fighter plane of World War II. The Spitfire watches were characterized by their vintage-inspired design, featuring bronze cases, olive green dials, and a distinctive sense of understated elegance. This collection was a masterclass in balancing historical accuracy with contemporary sensibilities.

* Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Spitfire (Ref. IW387902 & IW387903): Available in both stainless steel and bronze, this chronograph was a standout piece. The bronze version, with its olive green dial and brown calfskin strap, captured the essence of the Spitfire's era. The in-house caliber 69380 powered the chronograph, offering a reliable and accurate timekeeping experience. The stainless steel version provided a more modern and versatile aesthetic.

* Pilot’s Watch Automatic Spitfire (Ref. IW326801 & IW326802): This time-only model, available in stainless steel and bronze, offered a clean and legible dial, reflecting the functional requirements of a pilot's watch. The IWC-manufactured 32110 caliber ensured robust performance. The bronze version, with its vintage charm, was particularly popular among collectors.

* Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Digital Date-Month Spitfire (Ref. IW379108): This complex and sophisticated timepiece showcased IWC's horological prowess. The perpetual calendar complication, combined with the digital date and month display, made it a truly unique and impressive watch. The bronze case and olive green dial further enhanced its vintage appeal.

* The Classic Pilot's Watches: This collection retained the traditional design elements of the classic Pilot's Watch, focusing on legibility, functionality, and robustness. The watches in this line were designed to be reliable companions for pilots, offering clear and accurate timekeeping in demanding conditions.

* Pilot’s Watch Chronograph (Ref. IW377724 & IW377725): This chronograph, available in stainless steel with either a black or blue dial, represented the quintessential Pilot's Watch. The clear and legible dial, the robust case, and the reliable chronograph function made it a practical and versatile timepiece.

* Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar (Ref. IW503605): This impressive timepiece combined the classic Big Pilot's Watch design with the complexity of a perpetual calendar. The large case size ensured excellent legibility, while the perpetual calendar complication provided accurate timekeeping for years to come.

* Big Pilot’s Watch Single Piece Edition “Le Petit Prince” (Ref. IW501114): This special edition Big Pilot's Watch featured a striking blue dial and a caseback engraving of the Little Prince, paying tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the author of the famous novella and a pilot himself. This watch was a favorite among collectors for its unique design and sentimental value.