IWC combines the typical Big Pilot's design with an appealing military aesthetic: thus are born the two new Spitfires in 43-mm cases. Inspired by the legendary British fighter, they are equipped with the IWC-manufactured 82100 automatic calibre with Pellaton winding system and a soft-iron inner case for protection against magnetic fields. The first of the two versions sports a grade 5 titanium case, crown and back, whose dark grey matt colour is the result of a special surface treatment involving first polishing and then sandblasting the components. The design of the black dial is reminiscent of historical deck watches: only the minutes and seconds are printed in white on the outer ring, while the hours, which appear smaller, are printed in a more discreet grey on the inner ring; a configuration that made it easier for pilots and navigators to read the minutes and seconds at a glance. The unmistakable field watch look is complemented by a brown calfskin strap with contrast stitching. The second watch has a bronze case and crown and a titanium back: in fact, the bronze used by IWC is bronze containing not only copper but also aluminium and iron, a specific composition that makes it harder than ordinary bronze by about 50%. Its warm colouring blends in with the khaki-green dial and gold luminescent hands to make it easier to read at night. The buffalo leather strap is also green. The two versions of the Big Pilot's Watch 43 Spitfire are available from IWC boutiques, authorised retailers and online at IWC.com. They can be registered under the My IWC service programme and thus benefit from a 6-year extension to the standard 2-year Limited International Warranty. Prices: from 9,650 euros (titanium) to 10,100 euros (bronze).
