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IWC Big Pilot - 500901

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sidestreaker:
Just want to share some pictures of my latest addition and what has been on my wrist recently. In the past couple of years I have already been collecting a number of dress watches and some would consider 'safe' choices. A pilot watch seems like a logical first step for me to add in a luxury sporty watch in my collection.

In the process of making that choice, I have spent many hours browsing through the many models of similar designs of all the fliegeruhr available in the market, produced by more than one manufacturer out there. I can safely say that most pilot watches out there look pretty good and can similarly gives you a strong wrist presence. Though they all look very similar and share the same aesthetic, but in terms of specification, the IWC big pilot stands out from the rest of the crowd with its 7 days PR, soft iron cage and with the heritage of the model behind it.

I've been eyeing on the IWC Big Pilot for a while now. However, the price really held me back as it is rather expensive for what it is. There are many used and grey market dealers out there but I'd like to have something with a full warranty and can give me a peace of mind.

It was a rare opportunity that I bump into an AD that offered a very attractive price, attractive enough for me to consider this being reasonable. I went home, discussed it with my wife, pondered over it for a couple of days and went back to seal the deal.

Here are some pictures to tell the rest of the story...















It was with me for most part for CNY  ;D ;D









My wrist is only at 6.5" but rather flat on the top, with not much of flesh underneath. However, it does sits rather comfortably. in fact more comfortable than most bracelet watches which I've tried. The (really) thick leather strap balances the look and secures it firmly on the wrist, without much wobbling and lost of balance. The larger deployant buckle also helps.

Quick observation= Overall time gain average at +4 per day or less. +6 when PR is high. 

With this watch, I'm really getting out of my comfort zone and took a risk in wearing a 46mm with long lugs and a thick case. However, after wearing it for a while, it feels like I've made the right choice and I'm totally happy with it. Wrist presence is great, clarity and simplicity of the dial and time telling is fantastic.



A comparison with my other favourite, a 39mm GS… perhaps the only 2 brands I’ll ever need…



The BP has a solid caseback, but shown here is the current IWC's own 7-days 50000 caliber which powers it. With the newer double barrel 7-days which has been announced early this year, could this BP be the last variation of this caliber model? Only time will tell...

Score
1.   Design  8/10
I love every bit of it. Some may look at it as an overly simplistic watch for what IWC is asking for, but for me, the simplicity and its somewhat crude aesthetic is refreshing.

2.   Durability 8/10
The operating manual of the Big Pilot suggests that it can take a bit more punishment than other watches within its stable. It does feel solid and conveys that confidence to the wearer. 

3.   Accuracy 8/10
Fair. Average of +4 per day

4.   Size and comfort 7/10
Not something that you’ll wear under the sleeves or cuffs, but definitely for the weekends!

5.   Legibility 9.5/10
The Big Pilot is designed for a purpose, and that is legibility. I can still give you the exact time, while running away from zombies or enduring a devastating earth quake.

6.   Ease of operation 8/10
Adjusting time and date is a breeze with the diamond crown. Can’t get any simpler than this. 

7.   Calibre 8/10
It’s the standard current caliber 51111 with 7 days power reserve, complete with pellaton winding system, soft iron cage, and shock absorber (as said in the manual,?). 

8.   Craftsmanship 6/10
Simple and well executed. Let’s be real, printed dial, brush surface and large hands aren’t exactly what we call fine craftsmanship in horology. But for what it is, it’s pretty darn good, and well put together.

9.   Value 6/10
I’ll be fair using the RRP to evaluate this. If it wasn’t for the deal I got from the AD, I’d still be pondering on acquiring this! 

10.   After-sales service n/a
New watch but so far my service relationship with IWC has been good. 

Average – 7.6/10



Thanks for reading!

Clicko:
Nice watch and I really like your straight forward review with ratings  :thumbsup:

meoramri:
Good review!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Yikkie:
Very nice and honest review bro!  Thoroughly enjoyed reading it.  Love the Big Pilot... But as you have mentioned, the price is very prohibitive for what it is. Glad that you were able to get it at a great discount! Wear in good health bro!

Shiang:
Great write up. I got to know the Big Pilot much better.

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