Schaffhausen, 29 November 2019 – IWC Schaffhausen has dedicated two extraordinary limited edition Pilot’s Watches to Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport. The special editions feature a matte black zirconium oxide ceramic case and a carbon fibre dial – both high-tech materials, used also in the premium class models such as the Mercedes-AMG F1 W10 EQ Power+. The striking black design with PETRONAS Emerald Green accents was inspired by the team colours of the six-time world champion and IWC partner.
The recipe for Formula One™ success doesn't just require cutting-edge technology and a truly exceptional driver in the cockpit – an extraordinary sense of team spirit is also essential. Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport has combined all these factors: The team from the UK has won the FIA Formula One™ World Constructors’ Championship for the sixth year running*. IWC Schaffhausen has been the team's "Official Engineering Partner" since 2013. The manufacturer has now honoured its partner with two limited special editions in the Pilot's Watches range.
The Big Pilot's Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition "Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport" (Ref. IW503003) is limited to 10 watches. It is housed in a case made of matte black zirconium oxide ceramic and features a black carbon fibre dial. The printing and the luminous material in the team colour of PETRONAS Emerald Green create a striking colour accent on the dial. The perpetual calendar automatically detects the different number of days in the month and adds an extra day at the end of February every four years. Its mechanical programme will not need adjusting until 2100. The IWC-manufactured calibre 52615 guarantees a precise watch rate with a Pellaton automatic winding system. The notably heavy-duty components of the winding such as the eccentric or the automatic wheel are made from ceramic that is virtually wear-free. The two barrels store an ample power reserve of seven days. The black calfskin strap adds to the sporty look of this large Pilot's Watch.
The Pilot's Watch Chronograph Edition "Mercedes- AMG Petronas Motorsport" (Ref. IW389005) is limited to 50 watches, featuring a black ceramic case and a black carbon fibre dial. The small seconds at 6 o'clock and the seams on the black calf leather strap provide accents in the team colour of PETRONAS Emerald Green. The IWCmanufactured calibre 89361 displays the timed hours and minutes together on a subdial at 12 o'clock. With the flyback function, a simple press of the reset button can instantly start timing again. This function is also used on the race track to determine the fastest lap time. The two watches are now available in IWC Boutiques or from authorised retailers.
In 1868, the American watchmaker and entrepreneur Florentine Ariosto Jones travelled from Boston to Switzerland and founded the 'International Watch Company' in Schaffhausen. His visionary dream was to combine advanced American manufacturing methods with the craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers to make the best pocket watches of his time. In doing so, he not only laid the foundation for IWC's unique engineering approach but also established the centralised production of mechanical watches in Switzerland.
Over its 150 year history, IWC Schaffhausen has developed a reputation for creating functional complications, especially chronographs and calendars, which are ingenious, robust, and easy for customers to use. A pioneer in the use of titanium and ceramics, IWC today specialises in highly engineered technical watch cases manufactured from advanced materials, such as titaniumaluminide and Ceratanium™. Preferring the principle of "form follows function" over decoration, the Swiss watch manufacturer's timeless creations embody their owners' dreams and ambitions as they journey through life.
IWC sources materials responsibly and takes action to minimise its impact on the environment, creating intrinsically sustainable timepieces that are built to last for generations. The company prides itself in training its own future watchmakers and engineers, as well as offering an excellent working environment for all employees. IWC also partners with organisations that work globally to support children and young people.