Inspired by a “highly specialised” pilot’s watch IWC Schaffhausen engineered for members of the Strike Fighter Squadron 41, also known as the “Black Aces”, the Swiss luxury watchmaker has introduced the Pilot’s Watch Automatic 41 Black Aces, a brand-new timepiece ushering in a first for IWC — Developed in collaboration with pilots from the “Black Aces”, the Ref. IW326905 is equipped with a fully luminous dial.
The result of a complex manufacturing process, this IWC Pilot’s Watch’s Super-LumiNova dial takes legibility and night visibility to a whole new level, the company says. According to the brand, the dial emitted a bright greenish light for more than 23 hours during dark chamber tests.
The dial is imprinted with black indices and numerals. A “Black Aces” patch, resembling the ace of spaces from a card deck, can be found at the 6 o’clock marker.
The dial is housed in a stealthy matte black zirconium oxide ceramic case, measuring 41 mm in diameter. According to IWC, this material’s, which it pioneered in the 1980s, Vickers rating is second only to that of diamonds, making it hard-wearing. In addition, the case is also lightweight, enhancing comfortability for everyday use. The case back features an engraving of the “Black Aces” twin-engine jet against a brackdrop of spaces. The case is coupled with a black textile strap, replete with a pin-buckle is fashioned from sand-blasted stainless steel.
IWC’s 32100 calibre keeps time. Thanks to its double pawl winding system, the movement offers a power reserve of 72 hours.