Review: IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team” IW388108

IWC and its F1 partner launched the new Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team IW388108. Price: €8,450. Our review

On the occasion of the Miami Formula One Grand Prix, the fifth race of the 2022 Season, IWC and longstanding partner Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team have unveiled the first official team wristwatch, the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team” IW388108.

We had the possibility to test and wear this new model and we are now delighted to share our impressions and live pictures.

Characterised by a black dial with printing and luminescence in the team’s signature Petronas green colour, the new model comes in a 41 mm x 14.6 mm case crafted from a Grade 5 titanium alloy (titanium, aluminium and vanadium), lighter and more hard-wearing than steel. 

Offering the highest strength-to-density ratio of any metal, Grade 5 titanium is also darker than steel for a more technical look: after machining and sandblasting, the surface retains an attractive greyish shimmer.

The dynamic lines of the case are highlighted by a meticulous finish alternating satin-brushed and polished surfaces. 

Framed by a slim bezel and protected by a sapphire crystal with antireflective treatment that is also secured against displacement by drops in air pressure, the dial features a 6-9-12 layout with snailed counters.

The black hands, just like the 3, 6, 9 and 12 o'clock hour markers, are coated with Super-LumiNova for improved visibility in poor light conditions. The day and date apertures at 3 o’clock complete the indications.   

The chronograph start and stop functions are activated by using the pusher at 2 o'clock while the one at 4 o'clock resets the chronograph hands to zero. The screw-in crown contributes to guarantee waterproofness up to a pressure of 10 bar (approximately 100 metres / 330 feet).

The size looks ideal for most wrist while still remaining a piece that stands out for its presence,  something that you expect from a pilot's watch, don't you?

Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre is a robust and precise chronograph movement characterized by a classic column wheel design and excellent finishes including Côtes de Genève and perlage. When the chronograph is actuated, there is no hesitation or wobble.  

Beating at the frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vibrations per hour) and consisting of 231 parts, this movement guarantees a power reserve of 46 hours thanks to a reliable bi-directional pawl winding system similar to the Pellaton mechanism. 

The chronograph is delivered with two different straps: one black embossed calfskin strap, and one green rubber strap. Thanks to the integrated EasX-CHANGE system, the straps can be exchanged quickly and easily at the touch of a button and without needing any tool. 

The new IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team” ref. IW388108 has a suggested retail price of Euro 8,450 (including VAT) / US$ 7,850 (excluding local sales taxes) and is available for purchase exclusively through the online shop of the brand. iwc.com