On December 1, 2023, in keeping with the tradition of honoring Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s renowned novel, IWC Schaffhausen introduces the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince. Limited to 300 units, this 43-millimeter timepiece boasts an 18-carat Armor Gold® case and a captivating deep blue dial with a sunray finish. The standout feature is the flying minute tourbillon positioned at 6 o’clock, driven by the IWC-manufactured 82905 calibre, featuring a Pellaton winding system and an impressive 80-hour power reserve. The transparent sapphire glass case back reveals an oscillating mass resembling an asteroid with the little prince atop.
Antoine de Saint-Exupéry‘s iconic work, “The Little Prince,” translated into over 250 languages, serves as inspiration for IWC’s Pilot’s Watches. Since 2013, the brand has dedicated several editions to this beloved novel, symbolizing the fusion of poetry and engineering in the form of deep blue-dialed timepieces, reflecting Saint-Exupéry’s inseparable connection between writing and flying.
In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the “Le Petit Prince” editions, IWC adds another special edition, the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince (Ref. IW329502), limited to 300 pieces. The timepiece features an 18-carat Armor Gold® case and crown, offering enhanced hardness and wear resistance compared to conventional 5N gold. The radiant sunray-finished deep blue dial, gold-plated hands, and Super-LumiNova®-filled appliques create an enchanting glow in the dark. A brown calfskin strap with an 18-carat Armor Gold® folding clasp complements the overall design.
The focal point on the dial is the flying minute tourbillon at 6 o’clock, providing both a visual spectacle and enhanced accuracy by countering the effects of gravity. The tourbillon features 56 parts, with the pallet lever and escape wheel treated with Diamond Shell® technology to reduce friction. The IWC-manufactured 82905 calibre movement, powering the watch, incorporates a Pellaton winding system with ceramic components, delivering an 80-hour power reserve. A distinctive detail is the rotor made of solid 18-carat gold, shaped like “The Little Prince” standing on his asteroid, visible through the transparent sapphire glass case back.
The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince is now available at IWC boutiques, authorized retail partners, or online at IWC.com. Additionally, it qualifies for registration under the My IWC care program, extending the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty to 6 years.
For more information, please visit IWC.com.