IWC Pilot XVI

Details

IWC first began producing Pilot's watches in the 1930s, but they really became a major part of the brand's lineup with the Mark X, produced for the British Armed Forces during the Second World War. While IWC only produced 6,000 of these watches, it provided the foundations for the more famous Mark XI, which began production in 1949 and was sold until 1981. This classic design featured a 36mm case and military-style fixed spring bars, as well as a simple yet highly-visible black dial with white printed numerals.

This design has evolved into an entire collection of aviation-inspired timepieces. While they differ in function, some offering complications such as the UTC and the chronograph, they are all united by a common heritage and design philosophy.

The watch is in excellent condition with light marks only, the original leather strap is in excellent used condition with its original IWC pin buckle. Comes as a full set with inner IWC box, the box has some wear to the outer finish and has slightly sticky finish, also included the original booklets, guarantee card and original purchase receipt.

IWC

IWC, previously known as the International Watch Company, is the unlikely result of an American businessman's industrial practices applied to traditional Swiss watchmaking. His attempt to industrialise Swiss watchmaking was heavily opposed in French Switzerland, but he found in Schaffhausen a town that welcomed his ideas.

Fast forward to today, IWC stays close to its industrial-age heritage. While the new manufacture looks nothing like the factories of the 19th Century, it still approaches watchmaking with the same efficiency that was unheard of when the company was first conceived.