IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Blue Dial

The history of IWC’s oversize pilot watches goes back to 1940 when IWC created military navigator watches according to the German Air Force ministry specifications. Starting with the Type A dial which was a massive 55 mm watch that used a pocket watch movement. Later, in 1941, the Type B dial was released with a more pronounced minute tracker used for navigation purposes.

These models remain in archive until 2002, when the brand released reference 5002 (The Big Pilot’s Watch), a modern interpretation of the original which aesthetically set the tone for later models. Since then, there has been many different Big Pilot models and limited edition pieces with various complications, metals and dial refinements, but the overall case design has remain the same as reference 5002 which is smaller than the Type A but still quite large at 46 mm.

Just like the vintage Type A dial, The Big Pilot’s Watch has the distinctive 12 O’clock marker and the famous large “onion” crown which was originally designed so pilot’s could easily operate the watch while wearing gloves.

In 2021 IWC introduced the The Big Pilot’s Watch 43. This new model is available with various dial colors and paired with either a rubber or leather strap or a metal bracelet.

Under the sapphire crystal is a simplified sunburst dial with no power reserve indicator or date window. The main focus is the large Arabic numerals and large leaf style hands all filled with strong lum that you can see very well night.

The case overall design is pretty much the same as the 46mm but in a more compact size. The 43 mm stainless steel case has a thickness of 13.6 mm and overall length of 52.5 mm when measure from lug to lug.

When compared to the 46 mm version, this Big Pilot’s 43 is packed with new and improved features. Starting with the water resistance, which has been increase from 60 m to 100 m. This 43 also comes with a see thru case-back that showcases the in house movement caliber 8200.

Another great feature is the new straps and bracelet which now come with IWC’s Eas X-change system. This is a very simple to use quick release system that attaches to a standard spring bar. This means that you can also use a 21 mm aftermarket straps if you like.

The mew metal bracelet looks fantastic and is very versatile. Each link of the bracelet can be easily remove without the need of tools. But to make sure you have the perfect fit, IWC also added a micro adjuster to the single fold clasp. This feature works by pressing on the logo which allows you to push or pull the bracelet for a more precise fit.

Under the hood is the 8200 in house caliber. This automatic movement is very well decorated and comes with a skeletonized rotor with rose gold medallion and ceramic peloton bi directional winding system. The caliber is adjusted in five positions and works at 4 hertz using 22 jewels and has a power reserve of 60 hours.