IWC

Launched in a limited edition of 100 pieces at SIHH in 2016, The IWC Big Pilot Heritage 55 faithful in many respects to the history of the navigator's watches from the 1940s on which they're based. At 55mm, the watch is according to IWC was the diameter of the original 52 caliber TSC (Tirette Seconde Centrale) made for the German Air Force in 1940. This edition is fitted with the IWC caliber 98300, known as the "Jones Caliber" as it replicates most of the features of the early IWC pocket watch movement designed under the direction of IWC founder Florentine Ariosto Jones (long regulator index and it beats quite slowly by modern standards, at 18,000 vph, with a 48-hour power reserve).

Despite its 55m diameter and 13.5mm thickness, it weighs less than 150 grams due to its titanium constructed case that also features a soft iron antimagnetic inner shield. These anti-magnetic shield were crucial to pilots watches due to the strong magnetic fields generated by areophane’s fuel ignition systems, as well as the overall magnetic field generated by their aircraft. This shield means the Heritage 55 has an enclosed titanium case back that shows the watches limited edition number, in the current example, No 80 of 100. The watch also features an extra long wrist band with double bow and clasp clip making it possible to wear the watch over a flying suit on wrist or thigh.

The current example is in as new condition and retains its full suite of accessories.