IWC - Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63

With the new Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 models, IWC pays homage to the G-Class range from Mercedes-Benz. IW501201 and IW506201. Price from CHF 35,000

With the two new Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 models, IWC pays homage to the G-Class range from Mercedes-Benz.

The Big Pilot’s Watch and the G-Class share a common history. Initially, both were developed with purely functional criteria in mind – one to prioritize readability and robustness, the other to deliver uncompromising off-road capabilities. Over the years, they have maintained their utilitarian origins while evolving into contemporary design icons.

Drawing inspiration from signature G-Class design elements such as the headlights and spare wheel cover, the two new Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 models feature exceptionally durable case materials.

The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (ref. IW501201) boasts a 46.2 mm x 14.4 mm case and crown crafted from 18-carat Armor Gold, complemented by a black dial and a black rubber strap with microfibre inlay. 

The black and gold colour scheme takes cues from the exterior paintwork and interior finishing of the recently introduced Mercedes-AMG G 63 “Grand Edition.”

Armor Gold represents an innovative alloy that elevates the hardness of gold to a remarkable level, enhancing its resistance to external factors. This special alloy exhibits significantly greater hardness and wear resistance than conventional 5N gold, thanks to its improved microstructure. The dynamic lines of the watch are accentuated by alternating sand-blasted surfaces and polished edges.

The Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 (ref. IW506201) stands as the first IWC timepiece to feature a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case, developed in collaboration with the German Aerospace Center (DLR). With a slightly larger case than reference IW501201, it boasts a diameter of 46.5 mm and a thickness of 14.6 mm.

Distinguished from traditional carbon fibre-reinforced polymers, this composite material embeds fibres in a ceramic matrix rather than a polymer. CMC components are resistant to thermal shocks, making them ideal for applications demanding lightness, strength, and temperature resistance, from aerospace to the manufacture of brake discs for sports and luxury cars.

After finishing with diamond tools, the CMC case of this model exhibits a matte black colour and a distinctive structure determined by the fibres, making each piece truly unique.

Both new editions feature a power reserve display at 3 o’clock, a signature of the Big Pilot’s Watch, and a small seconds counter at 9 o’clock. The opposing subdials with external white rings mimic the typical headlights on the front of the G-Class.

The black dials feature a relief-like technical structure inspired by the air intakes of Mercedes-AMG performance cars. 

In contrast to the classic Big Pilot’s Watch with printed numerals and indices, these special editions include appliqués coated in black PVD and filled with luminous material.

Shielded against magnetic fields by a soft-iron inner case, the IWC-manufactured calibre 52010 incorporates a Pellaton winding system with nearly wear-free ceramic components. Operating at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vph), this movement ensures a 7-day power reserve, thanks to twin barrels.

The movements are visible through tinted sapphire glass backs, featuring a Mercedes-Benz star and reminiscent of the spare wheel cover on the rear of the G-Class.

The watches are equipped with specially designed sapphire glass to withstand sudden pressure drops in the cockpit. Water-resistance is guaranteed up to a pressure of 10 bar (100 meters / 330 feet).

The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 editions in 18-carat Armor Gold (ref. IW501201) and in CMC (ref. IW506201) are priced at CHF 35,000 and CHF 44,000, respectively. iwc.com