IWC Schaffhausen launches two new sophisticated, power-packed Top Gun Pilot’s Watches in black Ceratanium ® and black ceramic.
Light yet robust, subtle yet stylish. Honouring the Swiss watch manufacturer’s preferred principle of “form follows function” over pure decoration, the two new black Top Gun models from IWC Schaffhausen’s Pilot’s Watches collection, shine in the both the technical and looks departments.
Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Ceratanium ®
Between the two black beauties, the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Ceratanium® is the collection’s first 41mm chronograph in full Ceratanium®, a proprietary new material that has the best of both worlds – the strong, lightweight properties of titanium, and the scratch-resistant properties of ceramic. It is based on a titanium alloy that offers unlimited freedom during the shaping process, unlike ceramics which could easily break if milled or drilled, and cannot be machined using just any shaping process. This also makes producing small auxiliary parts with this material more viable.
Another key reason for developing Ceratanium® was to create a completely black watch that can maintain its colour despite wear and tear. Frequently-used coating processes in the watchmaking industry include physical vapour deposition (PVD). Steel, for example, is coated with an ultra-thin DLC (diamond-like carbon) layer which unfortunately chips easily or can peel off the base material if the watch gets hit or knocked upon. With Ceratanium® however, the surface is inseparably fused with the material, adding to its durability and withstanding IWC’s strict requirements.
The matte-black colour of the watch, which IWC and Pantone have specified as “IWC Ceratanium®”, is the result of a unique manufacturing process; the dark and slightly metallic shade develops on the surface of the material when the case components are fired at high temperatures in a kiln. The subdued white print and luminescence on the black dial and black hands accentuate the sleek, all-black design completed by the black rubber strap with textile inlay.
The IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre chronograph movement with a 46-hour power reserve can be admired through the tinted sapphire glass case back. True to a pilot’s watch, the glass is secured against displacement by drops in air pressure.
Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Top gun
The other star here is the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Top Gun black zirconium oxide ceramic, now available in an ergonomic 43mm case size for the first time. Featuring a black zirconium oxide ceramic case that offers maximum protection against scratches, a titanium case back, along with a black dial and hands, the watch mesmerizes with its deep, electrifying shade identified by IWC and Pantone as “IWC Jet Black”. The green textile strap emphasizes the beauty of the watch, and can be changed effortlessly, thanks to the integrated EasX-CHANGE® feature.
Powered by the IWC-manufactured 82100 calibre movement, the Pellaton winding system is fitted with components made of virtually wear-free ceramic, and builds up a power reserve of 60 hours. A soft-iron inner case protects the movement from the effects of magnetic fields, while the front glass is secured to remain in its place even if there is a sudden drop of air pressure.
Check out the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Ceratanium ® and the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Top Gun at IWC boutiques, authorised retail partners, and online at IWC.com.
Images courtesy of IWC Schaffhausen, artwork by Curatedition. All rights reserved.
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