Introduction
Released in 2002 as the first model within the Big Pilot collection, the ref. IW500201 is one of the most iconic pilot’s watches created to date, with its heritage-inspired aesthetic and functional design cues stemming from the historically significant B-Uhr pilots watch worn by German pilots, the Luftwaffe. Measuring 46mm in diameter, the IW500201 is still 9mm smaller than the watches it is inspired by, but comes with a dial design closely linked to that featured on the legendary B-Uhr watches (or Observation Watches as they were known in English) and the same large deeply knurled crown for ease of use while wearing leather gloves in a cramped cockpit. With a power reserve indicator at 3 o’clock and a date aperture found at 6 o’clock, the ref. IW500201 is a functional piece of kit that celebrates the design that came before it whilst adding its own piece of useful and contemporary horological engineering to the mix that increases its wearability for the modern collector.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Original Box and Papers, Extra Strap
Est. value range
$7,000 – $8,000
The Details
Brand
IWC
Dimensions
46mm
Model
Big Pilot
Movement
IWC cal. 5011 "slow beat"
Reference
IW500201
Bracelet
Leather Strap
Year
2002-2006
Condition
Excellent
Material
Stainless Steel
Included
Watch, Box & Papers
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
An iconic piece of IWC's brand heritage, the Big Pilot's black no-frills dial exists as a monument to the utility-focused design that the original B-Uhr watches had to feature. Adorned with plenty of lume and large hands, the Big Pilot is exceedingly legible and easy to read from in dark conditions.
THE CROWN
Now one of the most iconic pieces of design associated with the Big Pilot collection, the deeply knurled crown serves as a throwback to the timepiece's original use case when pilots would have to operate their watch whilst keeping it on their wrist and wearing leather gloves - a difficult task indeed.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. Dial is mint and free from any visible marks. Case has very light surface abrasions consistent with very careful wear. Watch comes with original pilot style calf strap as well as an IWC coramid strap.
Our Perspective
The watch that started the Big Pilot collection, the ref. IW500201 can easily be attributed to IWC's modern-day success, with variants of the Big Pilot on the wrists of Formula 1 racers like Lewis Hamilton and legendary quarterback Tom Brady amongst others.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
