IWC and Mercedes-Benz have a rich partnership spanning nearly two decades. Earlier this year, we saw them team up for a colourful edition of the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 in celebration of 10 years working with Mercedes-Benz’s F1 team. Today, we get a more refined take on IWC’s classic Big Pilot’s watch that draws inspiration from the popular G-Class: the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63.
For the occasion, IWC has created two variations of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63, one in 18-karat Armor Gold and one in ceramic matrix composite (CMC). The gold iteration echoes the colour palette of the exterior paintwork and interior finishing of the recently launched Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition.” Here, IWC chose Armor Gold, an innovative alloy that enhances the precious metal’s hardness and in turn enhances its resistance to external forces. Alternatively, for the second variation, we get an all-black look with a CMC case, marking IWC’s first watch to use the material. Unlike conventional carbon fiber-reinforced polymers, the fibers of this composite material are embedded in a matrix of ceramic rather than polymer. Like Armor Gold, the result is a more robust and wear-resistant material with the added bonus of being ultra-lightweight.
“The manufacturing process for this lightweight and strong material is extremely complex,” explains Lorenz Brunner, Department Manager Research and Innovation at IWC Schaffhausen. “To achieve perfect quality, we had to overcome countless challenges—from selecting the right raw materials for the fibers and the matrix to defining the exact parameters for the different steps of the process. With its first CMC watch case, IWC again demonstrates its expertise in engineering advanced material solutions.”
In addition to these exciting new materials, we also see the influence of the signature G-Class design language in both versions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63. Take for instance the composition of the subdials that imitate the typical headlights on the front side of the G-Class. Both iterations also feature striking dials embossed with a relief-like technical structure inspired by the air intakes of Mercedes-AMG performance cars. Powering both variations of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 is the IWC 52010 calibre.
Both versions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 are available today through IWC boutiques or online at IWC.com. The Armor Gold edition is priced at US$33,400 whereas the CMC edition will set you back US$42,400.
Previously published on Robb Report.
