The ultimate racing-inspired timepiece: IWC’s new Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 AMG

"...IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled two new high-performance chronograph models, developed in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team, a partnership that has flourished over the years..."

The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 AMG (Ref. IW388305) and the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team (Ref. IW388306) embody IWC’s mastery in chronograph engineering and the use of exceptional materials. These timepieces seamlessly combine impeccable precision, robustness, and striking design.

Both models are crafted from titanium and Ceratanium®, a lightweight, highly durable material known for its impressive scratch resistance. A notable feature is the ceramic bezel, equipped with a tachymeter scale that allows the wearer to measure average speed over a given distance. By starting the chronograph and stopping after one kilometre, the wearer can read the speed in kilometres per hour on the scale. The striking black lacquered dial is complemented by indices and numerals coated with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring optimal legibility in all lighting conditions.

IWC Schaffhausen has a long and distinguished history in producing pilot’s watches, renowned for their precision. Since 2004, IWC has partnered with Mercedes-AMG, the high-performance automotive division of Mercedes-Benz, and in 2013, the collaboration expanded with IWC becoming the official engineering partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team.

Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 AMG (Ref. IW388305/04)

This model is constructed entirely from titanium, including the case, crown, and pushers. IWC was a pioneer in incorporating titanium into watchmaking, unveiling the world’s first titanium wristwatch in 1980. Grade 5 titanium is renowned for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, making it 45% lighter than stainless steel. The timepiece is offered in two versions: Ref. IW388305, which comes with a durable black rubber strap, providing a sporty and resilient aesthetic, and Ref. IW388304, which is fitted with a titanium H-link bracelet and folding clasp, offering a refined balance of luxury and practicality.

Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team (Ref. IW388306)

Drawing inspiration from the official timepiece of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, this model features a case made from Ceratanium®, a cutting-edge material that merges the attributes of titanium and ceramic, resulting in a lightweight, highly durable, and scratch-resistant timepiece. The case undergoes a high-temperature firing process to achieve its signature matte black finish. The watch is equipped with a black rubber strap and a Ceratanium® buckle.

Both models are powered by the IWC Caliber 69385 chronograph movement, which consists of 242 components designed to offer both precision and reliability. The bi-directional pawl winding system provides a 46-hour power reserve, while the column-wheel mechanism ensures smooth and accurate timekeeping. These movements are meticulously assembled and adjusted at IWC’s state-of-the-art Manufakturzentrum, the brand’s new manufacturing centre, and undergo a rigorous 12-day automatic testing procedure to ensure they meet the highest standards.

Watches in the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 collection are eligible for registration under the My IWC Care programme, extending the warranty from 2 years to an impressive 8 years.

“The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 combines our extensive know-how in developing industry-leading chronographs with our comprehensive expertise in advanced materials. Both these new chronographs feature ceramic bezels with tachymeter scales, adding the dimension of speed to the highly accurate stop time measurements and making these robust chronographs the perfect companions for people with a dynamic, fast-paced lifestyle.” Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen

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