It’s been nearly 3,500 years since the Bronze Age saw new metal replace stone versions of tools and weapons and while bronze was all the rage then, it’s fallen out of favour over the past couple of millennia. That hasn’t stopped iconic watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen from using the metal our ancient ancestors knew and trusted so well. The new IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 is done in bronze—but a new version that brings the past and the present together.
IWC Bronze Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 | Image: IWC Schaffhausen
Naturally, with bronze comes some concerns, particularly over durability, but IWC has tackled the issue head-on. The bronze chosen for the new Chronograph 41, across the case, pushers, and crown, is a composition that includes copper, aluminium and iron, resulting in an alloy that is 50 per cent harder than standard bronze. Furthermore, the case measures a solid 41 mm, meaning it’s far from a dainty affair that will look dwarfed on your wrist. The dial is done in a deep blue, offering a striking contrast to the bronze, and the hands are gold-plated for an extra touch of elegance, while the watch comes on a blue textile strap with a button press adjustment.
While the outer shell nods to materials from the past, inside, it’s a completely modern story. The watch is powered by a 69386 caliber movement from IWC as well as a bi-directional pawl winding system. Thanks to the see-through sapphire glass back, you can get a pretty good view of the inner workings of this timepiece. This particular movement allows for stop time measurements of up to 12 hours, while the chronograph function is controlled by the column wheel, along with a day and date display at three o’clock. The Chronograph 41 offers 46 hours of power reserve and is water resistant up to 10 metres.
A stunning new addition to an already stellar lineup of timepieces, the new bronze Pilot’s Watch 41 cuts a historical figure against its stablemates, but don’t think you’ll be trading shells and beads for this watch. The new watch will set you back a cool USD$7,300. Much like our ancestors discovered, this watch is one that will stay with you longer, and will become uniquely yours as the bronze patinas in response to you over time.
IWC Bronze Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 | Image: IWC Schaffhausen
IWC Bronze Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41
Brand: IWC Schaffhausen
Model: Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41
Movement: IWC-manufactured 69385 Calibre, Automatic, self-winding
Case: Bronze
Diameter: 41mm
Power Reserve: 46 hours
Water Resistance: 10 bar
Price: AUD$10,900
IWC Bronze Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 | Image: IWC Schaffhausen
IWC Bronze Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 | Image: IWC Schaffhausen
IWC Bronze Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 | Image: IWC Schaffhausen
