As part of their Watches & Wonders 2022 releases, IWC is updating their iconic TOP GUN line with new materials and colours. Watchadvice has already presented to you another Watches & Wonders 2022 release by IWC which is the TOP GUN Edition “Lake Tahoe”. You can find the link to that timepiece here (provide link).
IWC’s next release follows in the same footsteps as the “Lake Tahoe” model. This time, however, the inspiration for the colours and theme of the watch has been taken from the flight suits of naval aviators that have a distinctive shade. With this in mind, the watch has been given the name Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Woodland”.
Christian Knoop, Chief Design Officer of IWC Schaffhausen states in regards to the new TOP GUN models that “the colour of uniforms and the views of the fascinating landscape admired by pilots have inspired our new chronographs. In an unprecedented engineering process, we have developed two completely new ceramic colours – ‘IWC Lake Tahoe’ white and ‘IWC Woodland’ green – and matched meticulously all other components of the watches to these new shades.”
Design:
The “Woodland” edition comes with a 44.5mm ceramic case that has what IWC calls “IWC Woodland” green. The colour itself has a matte-like finish and seems subdued. The chronograph pushers, crown and the case back of the watch are made from matte black Ceratanium®. Ceratanium has been developed by IWC and it combines the lightness and structural integrity of titanium with the hardness and scratch-resistance similar to ceramic.
The dial of TOP GUN Edition “Woodland” also features the IWC Woodland green and plays a nice contrast against the elements of the dial. The Arabic hour indices, minute track, hands and chronograph counters have all been done in white, so not only does it stand out well against the Woodland green dial, but the readability of the dial is crystal clear. The timepiece comes with a matching green rubber strap with textile inlay giving it a rugged military-type look.
Movement:
IWC has used their in-house 69380 calibre movement. Having a water resistance of 60m, the 69380 calibre movement operates at a frequency of 4hz (28, 800 VpH). The automatic winding movement can give out a power reserve of approximately 46 hours. The sapphire glass has also been secured against displacement by sudden drop in air pressure.
A bit more subdued in appearance compared to the TOP GUN “Lake Tahoe” edition, this latest release is perfect for those that want to fly under the radar whilst still wearing something iconic. The IWC – Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Woodland” is available for purchase from IWC boutiques. The timepiece can also be bought from the brand’s website (www.IWC.com). Like the “Lake Tahoe” edition the “Woodland” timepiece is also limited to 1000 models.
Reference: IW389106
Specification:
- Case: 44.5 mm diameter, 15.7mm thick
- Case Material: Ceramic case, stainless steel case back, crown and pushers
- Dial: Green
- Crystal: Sapphire, convex, antireflective coating on both sides
- Water resistance: 60 meters
- Movement: IWC-manufactured calibre 69380
- Power reserve: 46 Hours
- Strap: Green rubber strap with folding clasp
