IWC Schaffhausen Launches New Performance Chronographs

CEO’s Statement

According to Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen, “The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 combines our extensive know-how in developing industry-leading chronographs with our comprehensive expertise in advanced materials. Both these new chronographs feature ceramic bezels with tachymeter scales, adding the dimension of speed to the highly accurate stop time measurements and making these robust chronographs the perfect companions for people with a dynamic, fast-paced lifestyle.”

Details of the AMG Chronograph

The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 AMG (Ref. IW388305/04) has a case, crown, and pushers made from durable and lightweight titanium. IWC first introduced titanium in watchmaking in 1980. The metal, known for its high strength-to-density ratio, is often used in automotive engineering for high-performance engine components. Titanium, known for its high strength-to-density ratio, is commonly used in automotive engineering for high-performance engine parts. The grade 5 titanium alloy used in the watch case is about 45% lighter than steel and very rigid. One version has a black rubber strap (Ref. IW388305), and the other has a titanium bracelet with H-links and an integrated folding clasp (Ref. IW388304).

Chronograph for the Formula One™ Team

Last year, IWC released the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team” for the team, including designers and engineers. Now, IWC is launching a new performance chronograph dedicated to the team. The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team (Ref. IW388306) features a Ceratanium® case, combining titanium’s lightness with ceramic’s hardness. IWC developed Ceratanium®, merging titanium’s lightness with ceramic’s hardness and scratch resistance. This lightweight material is crafted from a special titanium alloy made to IWC’s specific standards. This material undergoes a phase transformation during firing, resulting in a matte black finish. During firing, a phase transformation gives the material ceramic-like properties and a matte black finish. This watch is paired with a black rubber strap with a Ceratanium® pin buckle.

Functional Features

A key feature of the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 is the ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale, enabling the wearer to measure average speed over a distance. Starting the chronograph initiates a measurement, and once a kilometer is covered, stopping the chronograph indicates the average speed on the tachymeter scale.

Craftsmanship and Design

All models feature black dials with a glossy finish, complemented by black hands. The recessed totalisers and applied indices and numerals in blackened nickel, filled with Super-LumiNova®, ensure excellent readability at night. The manufacturing process of these intricate dials involves careful craftsmanship and finishing. The polished black lacquer finish is achieved through a meticulous production process. The totalisers are individually finished and mounted on the lacquered base plate. Around 20 appliques are polished by hand, fixed to the dial, and filled with luminous material.

Chronograph Movement

The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 models are powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre movement, composed of 242 parts. This mechanical movement focuses on robustness, reliability, and precision. This mechanical chronograph movement, with 242 parts, focuses on durability, reliability, and precision. The bi-directional pawl winding system provides a 46-hour power reserve. The chronograph features column-wheel control and IWC’s vertical subdial arrangement, with stopped minutes displayed at the 12 o’clock position. The chronograph uses column-wheel control to ensure clear definition of each switching phase. The assembly of these movements is divided into several smaller steps to ensure high quality. After assembly and regulation, all functions are tested automatically over 12 days in IWC’s FIM (Final Inspection Movement) cell.

Warranty and Care Program

All three timepieces can be registered under the My IWC care program, extending the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty by 6 years.

YOU ASKED…

What materials are used in the new chronographs?

The new chronographs are crafted from titanium or Ceratanium®, with ceramic bezels.

What is the water resistance of these watches?

All models are water-resistant up to 10 bar.

What movement powers these chronographs?

The chronographs are powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre movement.

Can I extend the warranty for these watches?

Yes, all models are eligible for registration under the My IWC care program, which extends the standard 2-year warranty by 6 years.