IWC - The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII Hong Kong Friday, November 24, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: IWC
    Year: Circa 2009
    Reference No: IW500401
    Case No: 3’293’280
    Model Name: Big Pilot’s Watch
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Automatic, cal. 51110, 44 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel IWC deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 46.2mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and clasp signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by IWC warranty stamped Swiss Fine Timing, Chicago dated October 2009, instruction manual, product literature, cloth, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    The IWC Big Pilot's Watch has evolved from its functional military origins into a horological icon. Its journey began in 1940 when IWC produced 1,000 oversized "B-Uhr" navigators' watches for the military. With their distinctive dials and pocket watch movements, these tool watches served a specific purpose.

    In 2002, IWC revived the design as a modern luxury watch. Named the "Grosse Fliegeruhr" or Big Pilot's Watch, the 46.2mm model ref. 5002 paid homage to its 1940s ancestor while incorporating a new automatic movement with eight-day power reserve. This bold yet legible watch was cutting-edge yet traditional, both contemporary and historically-inspired.

    The Big Pilot's Watch was subtly redesigned in 2006 as ref. IW5004. Numerals at 2 and 4 o'clock were partially shown, the 9 numeral disappeared, the strap upgraded to alligator. The movement also improved. This made the watch more versatile and refined.

    The present ref. IW500401 from circa 2009 features a sleek matte black dial with seven days of power reserve. From its military origins to a modern luxury icon, the IWC Big Pilot's Watch has earned its place as a legend in its own time.

  • Artist Biography

    IWC

    Swiss • 1868

    With a clear focus on technology and development, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has been producing timepieces of lasting value since 1868. The company has gained an international reputation based on a passion for innovative solutions and technical ingenuity. One of the world's leading brands in the luxury watch segment, IWC crafts masterpieces of haute horlogerie at their finest, combining high precision with masculine design. Vintage wristwatches such as the oversized Portugieser, Aquatimer, Ingenieur and the B-UHR pilots watch are especially desirable for collectors.

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Σ977

Ref. IW500401
A fine and oversized stainless steel wristwatch with center seconds, date, seven-day power reserve indication, warranty and presentation box

Circa 2009
46.2mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and clasp signed

Estimate
HK$40,000 - 80,000 
€4,800-9,700
$5,100-10,300

Sold for HK$44,450

Contact Specialist

Thomas Perazzi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com

The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XVII

Hong Kong Auction 24-25 November 2023