The original watch was inspired by a piece Bühler created during his apprenticeship at IWC, and has come full circle with this new edition.
IWC Schaffhausen‘s Big Pilot’s Watch Edition Markus Bühler from 2008 is a legendary piece among collectors, known for its unique aircraft turbine small seconds display. Now, 15 years later, IWC presents a highly exclusive reinterpretation of this iconic timepiece – the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Markus Bühler (Ref. IW329901). Markus Bühler and the tourbillon
Markus Bühler, Associate Director of Watch and Movement Assembly at IWC Schaffhausen
Markus Bühler, the Associate Director of Watch and Movement Assembly at IWC Schaffhausen and the namesake of the watch, was the creative force behind both editions.
“When I created my Big Pilot’s Watch with a turbine as an apprentice watchmaker, I would never have imagined I would lead the development of a second edition 15 years later – let alone that I would be responsible for all assembly processes at IWC,” he said in a statement.
At the heart of this masterpiece is a flying minute tourbillon featuring the signature aircraft engine turbine, situated at 6 o’clock on the dial.
In traditional tourbillons, weight reduction is crucial to maintain precision. To achieve this, the turbine was meticulously crafted from a lightweight titanium alloy, undergoing hours of machining and hand polishing to perfection.
Remarkably, Bühler integrated the turbine into the tourbillon cage, replacing the regulator. This fusion of aesthetics and functionality allows for balance adjustments by turning the turbine.
The tourbillon comprises 56 parts and weighs a mere 0.663 grams, highlighting the dedication to reducing weight for optimal performance. The pallet lever and escape wheel received a Diamond Shell® coating, further enhancing the movement’s efficiency.
The new Big Pilot Markus Bühler
The watch’s 43-millimeter platinum case is paired with a glossy black lacquered dial that boasts white numerals and Super-LumiNova-filled applied indexes. A black Cordovan leather strap with Markus Bühler’s signature on the inner side complements the design.
The movement’s intricate parts, including the rotor, are visible through the sapphire case back, accentuated by blackening with a PVD coating, laser-engraving, and rhodium-plating in the engraved areas.
Tech Specs: IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Markus Bühler
Movement: Automatic-winding IWC-manufactured 82905 caliber; 80-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes; Flying minute tourbillon
Case: 43mm; Platinum; Water-resistant up to 100m
Dial: Black dial
Strap: Black Cordovan leather strap
Availability: Limited to 51 pieces
