IWC Looks to the Future With BIG Pilots's Watch Shock Absorber XPL

IWC has long perfected its recipe for success in the release of slightly-tweaked versions of its mainstay watches, but this year’s digital Watches and Wonders exhibition saw something different. Rather than a tweak, it was an entire reimagining of a particular model.

Rather than dig into the brand’s rich celebrated history, IWC looked to the future with a contemporary take on the Big Pilot’s Watch. Named the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL, this is the first watch from IWC that features its SPRIN-g PROTECT shocking absorbing system — a tech that has been eight years in the making. The SPRIN-g PROTECT suspends the movement within the case, and when combined with Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG), the IWCmanufactured 32115 calibre can survive accelerations in access of 30,000 g.

The 44mm case design is also lightweight as it has been constructed out of IWC’s titanium alloy Ceratanium in matte black. “Ever since F.A. Jones founded IWC more than 150 years ago, engineering and innovation have been at the core of our DNA. Today, we continue this heritage with our new engineering division, IWC Experimental, which drives cutting-edge developments in areas like advanced materials or g-protection. The Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL is the first brainchild of this division. Every detail has been carefully analysed and improved to redefine movement shock protection for mechanical watches,” said Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen.

IWC will be making a total of 30 of these watches with only 10 produced each year.

In other watch news, Vacheron Constantin introduces new Overseas models for 2021.