The iconic pilot’s watch 41 mm now comes in black dial versions to complement the green and blue variants launched in 2021. For those wanting a more classic look in the Pilot’s chronograph, then the wait is over.
If you’re a little bit like me, then this news of IWC releasing a 41 mm Pilot’s Chronograph may have taken you by surprise. IWC didn’t already have an black dial version of the Pilot Chronograph 41? huh?! They do have one in the older 43 mm version alongside the green and blue dial variants, and this is what most people probably think of. Now the 41 mm Pilot’s Chronograph collection is rounded out with the black dial on both black leather strap or stainless steel bracelet. The first one (Ref. IW388111) is fitted with a black calfskin strap whereas the second one (Ref. IW388113) features a sophisticated 5-link stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp.
Both novelties feature the IWC EasX-CHANGE® system for quick and easy strap exchange and are water resistant to 10 bar (100m). For those keeping track, the older 43 mm variants were only 6 bar, or 60 metres water resistant (however, the latest models have been upgraded to 100m). Furthermore, they are powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre chronograph movement, visible through the sapphire glass case back.
As mentioned previously, back in 2021, IWC Schaffhausen introduced the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. This was a slimmed down version of the 43 mm versions. With a case diameter of 41 mm and a lug-to-lug distance of 51.8 mm, this chronograph wears incredibly well even on slender wrists. The Pilot’s Watch Chronograph wears a little smaller than the spec sheet would have you believe, and does so for both 43 mm and 41 mm versions. So if your wrists are on the smaller side, the 41 mm will still fit well and look great.
Other key characteristics such as the 10 bar water-resistant case and the integrated EasX-CHANGE® quick change system make this reference a fully versatile sports watch. This was my one gripe with the older pilot’s watches, and even the Le Petit Prince and Spitfire models – the 60 meter water resistance made me weary around water, and even with a screw down crown, I’d still like to have 100m resistance to be safe. Call me crazy, I know!
Just like the other variants, the dial features the iconic design in the style of an easy-to-read cockpit instrument design that has become the hallmark of IWC’s Pilot’s Watches. The stopped minutes are displayed at 12 o’clock and the minutes at 9 o’clock. In addition, the chronograph also features a day and date aperture at 3 o’clock and a small seconds display at 6 o’clock.
Both new models are powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre movement. The movement consists of 231 individual parts and is a classic column-wheel designed chronograph with a bi-directional rotor. Beating at 4hz or 28,800 VPH, the movement has a 46 hour power reserve. Now I’ve said this before, I believe any watch that is into the 5 figure retail pricing should have more than 2 days power reserve, given many are now setting the benchmark at 70hrs, so this is one area where the Pilot’s Watch falls short. If you’re wearing this every day, it probably won’t matter however.
The new versions of the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 are available immediately on IWC.com, from IWC boutiques and through selected retail partners. In addition, the timepieces are eligible for registration under the My IWC care program and can benefit from a 6-year extension to the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty.
Reference: IW388111 (Black Leather Strap) & Ref. IW388113 (Steel Bracelet)
Specification:
- Case: 41mm diameter, 14.6mm thick
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Dial: Black dial, rhodium-plated hands
- Crystal: Sapphire, convex, antireflective coating on both sides
- Water resistance: 100 Meters (10 BAR)
- Movement: IWC Calibre 69385, 28,800 VPH/4Hz pivoting on 33 Jewels
- Power reserve: 46 Hours
- Bracelet/Strap: 5-link stainless steel bracelet with a folding clasp / Black leather strap with folding clasp
