The New IWC Pilots Watch Automatic “Laureus Sports for Good” Edition

On the heels of the announcement for the IWC “Inspiration4” Pilot’s Chronograph in white ceramic, IWC releases a second watch in partnership with Laureus - a unique sports movement that brings attention to how much sports can change lives. The first watch was a black Mark XVIII with a blue dial, that was kind of cool, if not a little odd.

The Pilots Watch Automatic “Laureus Sports for Good” Edition utilizes a Blue ceramic case in IWC’s signature pilot 3-hander.

THE BASICS:

Brand: IWC

Model: Pilots Watch Automatic Edition “Laureus Sports for Good” (Ref. IW328101)

Case Material: Blue Ceramic

Case Size: 41mm x 11.4mm

Water Resistance: 100m

Movement: IWC 32111 Calibre

Movement Specs: Automatic, 28,800 VpH, 120 Hour Power Reserve

Strap Options: Blue Rubber with Textile Inlay

Is it cool? Yes. Does it feel quintessentially IWC? Also yes. I imagine that fans of the brand will be all over this piece. This is the second watch released this week with a Ceramic case. It’s interesting, but also exciting to see IWC playing with these materials (typically an LVMH move).

The Olympics are over, the space race is on, and it feels IWC is striving to throw ceramic into any cultural relevant situation they can find. Don’t get me wrong, Laureus is a fantastic group, doing fantastic work, and IWC is a fantastic watch brand, making fantastic watches. I’m just not exactly sure this partnership makes sense - I didn’t a few years ago and still don’t know. The watch is cool, and the only real nod to the collaboration is an engraved case-back, but I’m not sure I see the vision.

I love it in its own regard, but I can’t help but be reminded by the Swatch x Hodinkee - an unfair comparison, admittedly. As much as I was excited for IWC to jump into the the outer worlds, I can’t help but feel this watch feels kitsch. I’ll reserve a final judgement until I can see the watch in the - Er… ceramic (which I can definitely tell is different from plastic).

How much does the New Pilots Watch Automatic “Laureus Sports for Good” Edition cost?
The watch will only be produced in a 750 piece limited edition, and carry a price tag of $6,250 and is apparently available now.

You can read more about this watch here.