IWC debuted its smallest Big Pilot’s Replica Watch to date. Smaller, but not small, the latest Big Pilot is 43 mm, leaving it very much large and legible, but more wearable.Two variants are available: titanium or bronze, but the standout is definitely the model in the lightweight metal.The aesthetic of Spitfire editions is clearly different from the that of the standard model in steel, which is good news for enthusiasts who want something more interesting. History fanatics, however, might frown at the dial design.
Of the two Spitfire versions, the one in titanium stands out for its unusual, historically-inspired dial. And it also has an atypical case finish that mimics a worn, vintage case.On the other hand, the bronze version is identical to the steel model save for the AAA IWC Replica Watches Online case and green dial – in fact it sticks to the same formula applied to the other Spitfire models such as the chronograph. The bronze version feels like another predictable variant, but the titanium model is novel.
Like the steel Swiss Big Pilot’s Replica Watch 43, the Spitfire in titanium has a no-date, no-frills dial. But the titanium version does have a distinctly more vintage appearance with its beige luminescent material, which can feel like an affectation. It isn’t a bad look, but it is one that’s been used too often everywhere.The titanium version have have a more apparent military style thanks to sectored dial with oversized minute numerals, a layout that is unique among the Big Pilot family, across both large and small models.
The dial works well. It has an appealing, aviation-instrument look, while also maximising the use of the real estate in the large case.
The Type A dial can seem too plain in a 43 mm (or 46.5 mm) case. Having more elements on the dial, as the Type B design does, helps fill up the expanse.The IWC Replica Watches Swiss Made dial is also executed in a subtle range of colours and textures that vary with its constituent elements. The dial itself is a matte black, with a granular surface apparent up close. The hands echo the matte black finish, making this the only Big Pilot’s Watch 43 with black hands.
Aside from the dial, the other highlight of the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Spitfire in titanium is the case. While titanium is a common material in watchmaking, it’s rarely found in IWC’s catalogue today, especially for the brand’s pilot’s luxury replica watches.Beyond the material itself, the Spitfire case is also unusual for its finish. The case has an even, gently worn look meant to evoke a vintage watch.
That said, the pronounced grain on the Spitfire case is works better, since the watch has a more instrument-like style than the Radiomir PAM 992. The Spitfire’s muted finish goes well with its military-inspired style, but that also means the case forgoes the attractive polished bevels along the lugs found on the steel Best Big Pilot’s Replica Watch.
