IWC Big Pilot Le Petit Prince

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch “Le Petit Prince” Ref. IW501002 (Steel, 2019)

The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Le Petit Prince,” reference IW501002, from 2019 is a striking tribute to the timeless masterpiece by French author and aviation pioneer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. It combines the imposing, uncompromising cockpit DNA of the historic IWC observation watch (B-Uhr) from 1940 with the poetic sophistication of its distinctive midnight-blue dial. With its enormous case diameter, legendary Pellaton automatic winding system, and impressive seven-day power reserve, this watch is one of the most sought-after flagship models from the Schaffhausen manufacture.

• Imposing 46.2 mm stainless steel case: Crafted from finely satin-finished stainless steel with polished accents on the edges and bezel. The distinctive case geometry, with a height of 15.6 mm, ensures an unmistakable, commanding presence on the wrist.

• Signature onion crown (Conical Crown): The oversized screw-down crown is a direct reference to historic pilot’s watches, which pilots had to operate while wearing thick leather gloves.

• Magnetic-field protection from a soft-iron inner case: As is customary with professional aviation instruments, an integrated soft-iron inner case reliably protects the mechanical movement from harmful magnetic fields.

• Midnight-blue sunburst dial: The iconic deep-blue dial changes hue depending on the light and forms the visual centerpiece of the “Le Petit Prince” edition. It features applied, luminescent Arabic numerals and the classic pilot’s orientation triangle at 12 o’clock.

• Power Reserve Indicator at 3 o’clock: A prominent subdial continuously informs the wearer of the energy remaining in the impressive 7-day power reserve.

• Date window at 6 o’clock: A discreet, perfectly balanced date display at the bottom of the dial.

• Manufacture Caliber 52110 with Pellaton winding: Powered by IWC’s high-performance in-house caliber with two barrels and a patented, extremely wear-resistant Pellaton winding system featuring Ceramic components. The movement beats at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz).

• Double-sided anti-reflective Sapphire Crystal: A domed, highly scratch-resistant Sapphire Crystal protects the dial. It is specially secured against sudden drops in pressure in the cockpit.

• Solid caseback with special engraving: The screw-down stainless steel caseback features a detailed engraving of the Little Prince with his coat and sword.

• Water resistance (60m / 6 ATM): Provides reliable protection against moisture and splashes in everyday use.

• Brown calfskin strap with rivets: Worn on a supple brown leather strap in authentic aviator style, with light contrast stitching and a solid stainless steel folding clasp.

• Commanding pilot’s watch icon (2019): Reference IW501002 is the perfect blend of high-performance mechanics, aviation history, and emotional poetry - a collectible with unmistakable character.