The story behind this IWC Pilot's Watch Spitfire Chronograph
The House of IWC has had a visceral link with aviation since the 1930s. The Spitfire model pays direct homage to the legendary Rolls-Royce-powered British interceptor. Designed to offer absolute legibility in mid-air, this IWC Pilot's Watch Spitfire Chronograph reference IW387803 transcends its military heritage to establish itself as a work of Haute Horlogerie. An exciting historical feature is its slate-coloured dial. This metallic sunray hue has been meticulously developed to recreate the raw sheen of the unpainted aluminium fuselage of the Supermarine Spitfire under the Battle of Britain sun. The vertical date window at 3 o'clock revealing 3 days simultaneously is a direct replica of the analogue altimeters found in cockpits of the era.
Case, calibre and bracelet of this Pilot's Watch Spitfire Chronograph
The majestic armour carved from a solid block of 18-carat rose gold boasts an imposing diameter of 43 mm and a thickness of 15.5 mm. The case presents a striking contrast between the deep brushing of its sides and the polished lustre of its bezel and bevels. Beneath the domed anti-reflective sapphire crystal is a slate dial that captures the light in a hypnotic way. It is dominated by luminescent pink gold glaive hands and a bright red lacquered small seconds at the 6 o'clock index. The movement is powered by the brand's Manufacture Calibre 89365. This sophisticated self-winding mechanism beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and incorporates 35 jewels. It offers a powerful 68-hour power reserve and features the Flyback complication, enabling a timekeeping operation to be instantly reset and restarted at the touch of a button. This piece is dressed in a luxurious brown alligator leather strap with large square scales and tone-on-tone stitching, perfectly secured by an 18-carat rose gold forged pin buckle.
Why this IWC watch
This solid gold variation transforms the utilitarian flight instrument into a true statement of absolute power on the wrist. The combination of the warm rose gold and the metallic grey dial creates a virile yet sensual aesthetic that is particularly rare on the second-hand market. Acquiring this timepiece represents an exceptional opportunity to own a Manufacture chronograph whose design tells a fascinating story of aeronautical engineering. The rare balance between its luxurious aura, the nobility of its materials and its formidable technical specifications makes it a compelling choice for a discerning collector in search of a strong identity.
Delivered contents and condition
This 2019 timepiece comes with its sumptuous original case and manuals. Its pedigree is formally attested by a nominative proforma invoice from the Richemont Group, adding absolute traceability to this set. This watch is in very good aesthetic and mechanical condition, offering an exceptional wearing experience. Its architectural lines and the finishes of its rose gold case have been remarkably preserved through respectful use, presenting sharp edges and brushed surfaces of great purity.
Guarantee and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. We offer a 24-month The Swiss Collector guarantee. We accept returns within 10 days according to our conditions. As Switzerland's leading second-hand retailer with the largest network of boutiques, we offer online booking for on-site fitting and collection or fully secure international shipping.
* Very good condition - watch already worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and bracelet in excellent condition overall.
