IWC Big Pilot's Watch 43: The Perfect Everyday Pilot Watch

IWC's Big Pilot has long been admired for its bold presence and aviation heritage, but its 46mm case size proved too large for many wrists. The new Big Pilot 43 addresses this concern while maintaining the collection's essential character.

The 43mm case size makes the Big Pilot accessible to a much wider audience. Despite the reduction in diameter, IWC has preserved the watch's commanding presence through clever design. The large crown, prominent Arabic numerals, and substantial lugs ensure the watch doesn't feel diminished.

Inside beats the Caliber 82100, IWC's in-house automatic movement offering 60 hours of power reserve. The movement features the brand's efficient Pellaton winding system and is finished to high standards visible through the sapphire caseback.

The dial maintains the Big Pilot's signature aesthetic with large Arabic numerals, a triangle at 12 o'clock, and excellent legibility. The hands and markers are generously coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring visibility in all lighting conditions. The date window at 3 o'clock is well-integrated into the design.

IWC offers the Big Pilot 43 in stainless steel and bronze, with various dial colors including classic black, blue, and green. The bronze version develops a unique patina over time, giving each watch individual character. All versions come on either leather straps or steel bracelets.

The watch's aviation heritage is evident in every detail. The conical crown is easy to grip even with gloves, a feature inherited from pilot watches of the past. The soft-iron inner case provides magnetic field protection, important for aviators and anyone working around electronic equipment.

At around $7,000, the Big Pilot 43 represents solid value in the luxury watch market. It offers in-house movement, excellent finishing, and the prestige of the IWC brand. For those who found the original Big Pilot too large, this new size is a welcome addition to the collection.