In 2016, IWC introduces three new references of the IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII IW327001/IW327002/IW327011. Featuring either a black (Ref. IW327001/IW327011) or silver-plated (Ref. IW327002) dial, they have one thing in common: a reduction to essentials. More IWC Pilot Mark XVIII replica watches.
Personally I think that this is a great move since the triple date window (of the Mark XVII) was not in line with the classic design features that traditionally characterized the Mk series. Therefore, now we see a contrasting dial that come very close to the ideal of the classic pilot’s watch inspired from the 1930s Junkers Ju-52 cockpit instruments, which have served as the model per se for classic pilot’s watches. The displays are round, big and clearly arranged. It was from here that the cockpit design was subsequently to evolve.
The Arabic numerals stand proudly in position, with just two exceptions: instead of a “12”, we see a white triangle with a single dot on either side for better legibility, and at “3 o’clock” a date window; a traditional date window. Engraved into the reverse side of the watch is a depiction of a Ju-52 airplane.
Cal. 30110 a workhorse movement with a frequency of 28,800 A/h. With 21 jewels, having a power reserve of 42h this calibre amplifies the character of the watch. A sturdy, reliable and above all, accurate time proven calibre (based on an ETA Ebauche). This new model also lost 1mm in diameter. Now being measured at 40mm and 11mm in height is I think perfect and another great move being made by IWC. The mark series of watches always have been worn larger on the wrist because they lacked a bezel. Now at 40 mm the IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII dominates the wrist without being a caricature.
It features a soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields and the front glass is secured against sudden drops in pressure. The sapphire crystal is convex, has an anti-reflective coating on both sides in order to eliminate unwanted reflections and to enhance legibility. The MkXVIII is water-resistant to 6 bar. Customers have also the choice of either a strap or bracelet. Two models (Ref. IW327001/IW327002) are available with a Santoni black calfskin strap, which is lined with orange leather on the inner surface. A third model (Ref. IW327011) is sold with a very high quality stainless-steel bracelet. Two-tone textile straps, inspired by the historic NATO straps, are now also additionally available for all Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII models.
Personally I think that this is a great move since the triple date window (of the Mark XVII) was not in line with the classic design features that traditionally characterized the Mk series. Therefore, now we see a contrasting dial that come very close to the ideal of the classic pilot’s watch inspired from the 1930s Junkers Ju-52 cockpit instruments, which have served as the model per se for classic pilot’s watches. The displays are round, big and clearly arranged. It was from here that the cockpit design was subsequently to evolve.
The Arabic numerals stand proudly in position, with just two exceptions: instead of a “12”, we see a white triangle with a single dot on either side for better legibility, and at “3 o’clock” a date window; a traditional date window. Engraved into the reverse side of the watch is a depiction of a Ju-52 airplane.
Cal. 30110 a workhorse movement with a frequency of 28,800 A/h. With 21 jewels, having a power reserve of 42h this calibre amplifies the character of the watch. A sturdy, reliable and above all, accurate time proven calibre (based on an ETA Ebauche). This new model also lost 1mm in diameter. Now being measured at 40mm and 11mm in height is I think perfect and another great move being made by IWC. The mark series of watches always have been worn larger on the wrist because they lacked a bezel. Now at 40 mm the IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII dominates the wrist without being a caricature.
It features a soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields and the front glass is secured against sudden drops in pressure. The sapphire crystal is convex, has an anti-reflective coating on both sides in order to eliminate unwanted reflections and to enhance legibility. The MkXVIII is water-resistant to 6 bar. Customers have also the choice of either a strap or bracelet. Two models (Ref. IW327001/IW327002) are available with a Santoni black calfskin strap, which is lined with orange leather on the inner surface. A third model (Ref. IW327011) is sold with a very high quality stainless-steel bracelet. Two-tone textile straps, inspired by the historic NATO straps, are now also additionally available for all Pilot’s Watch Mark XVIII models.
