The Manual Wind: IWC Big Pilot Heritage Limited Edition

By Ian Schwam January 6, 2016

the manual wind iwc big pilot heritage limited edition iwcbp1 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

The new year brings new watches. As soon as the clock ticks 12:01, the rumors and pre-releases start to swirl in the watch world. The brands are just as excited to exhibit as the watch-a-holiics to see. IWC always has their new releases in the chamber ready to be fired. This year is no different. IWC has reloaded their iconic Big Pilot for their new Big Pilot Heritage.

iwcbp4 — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Offered in two sizes, 48mm and 55mm, the larger version is the largest IWC introduction since 1940. Taken from the original 1940 design, the Heritage brings back that classic look, but with a twist. The case is now in titanium. A monster like this comes in weighing a mere 150 grams (over 30 grams less than the steel version). Blue steel hands and the now extremely popular faux patina add contrast to this classic dial layout. Attached with a brown calf strap and deployment completes this tribute pilot piece. An IWC 8-day power reserve moment powers this classic beast. There is even a newly added window on the caseback to view the power reserve truly making this a modern classic.

Possibly being the brand the put the aviator watch on the map, IWC has reinvented it once again showing its history. Appropriately named the Big Pilot Heritage, this piece embodies all three words. Big watch. Pilot Watch. Exemplary of IWC Heritage. Make sure you call your local boutique and get on the list now. These modern Pilots are only being made in a limited number. 100 55mm pieces and 1000 48mm pieces will eventually make their debut. Modern history can be tough to get a hand on. Price not yet available.

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Contributing writer and watch enthusiast Ian Schwam dons an expert knowledge of all things watches. Having spent a decade in…

Fashion & Style

Rare Birkenstock sale knocks up to 18% off the iconic sandals

birkenstock sale gilt april 2024 milano sandals lifestyle

If you’ve checked out the best Birkenstock alternatives and your heart is set on true Birkenstock sandals, there’s a great sale going on at Gilt right now with up to $30 off select Birkenstock sandals. If you’re looking for new footwear for the summer, this is your chance to do so while saving a little cash along the way. With many different sandals in the sale, the best thing to do is tap the button below to see the full options available. If you want some insight and recommendations, keep reading while we take you through our suggestions.

What to shop for in the Birkenstock Gilt sale
Responsible for some of the best sandals, Birkenstock is a brand to rely on. A straightforward option for many people in the sale is being able to buy the for $90 instead of $110. At 18% off, the sandal has a buckle closure with an original Birkenstock suede-lined natural cork footbed which molds and shapes to your foot. It has pronounced arch support with a deep heel cup, and roomy toe box. The color will suit pretty much anything you wear.

Fashion & Style

What exactly are limited edition watches?

Know the buzz word before you buy

Citizen watch in ground beans

Have you ever watched a movie and wondered why the rare piece of art could ever be worth the obscene amount of money the debonair art thief claims it's worth? It is simple, really. It comes down to the fact that it is rare. A truly original piece of art masterfully created by the very hand who conjured it up in their mind is something that cannot be recreated. The same kind of rare value exists in the watch world, too. There is an entire industry of limited edition watches that claim rarity rivaled only by the masterful artwork of Renaissance artists who can no longer create original pieces.

But what does it really mean to say that a watch is a limited edition? Does it truly mean that there is little chance of you walking into a party or a bar and running into the ever-embarrassing moment when your "rare" watch sits on the wrist of another...in the same room? Or does it mean they just want you to buy it quickly because they have numbers to make before the shareholders' meeting? Both are possible. As usual here at The Manual, we did the legwork to make sure are armed with the information you need before you click the BUY button and invest in a limited edition watch.
The parameters of limited edition

Fashion & Style

A day at the races: How to dress for the Kentucky Derby

Let your colors and patterns fly at the Kentucky Derby

Men's Derby Fashion with Bowties

Thanks in no small part to social media, The Kentucky Derby has become more than a horse race, becoming a major annual fashion event. Horse races have historically been social events that encouraged spectators to dawn their most spectacular finery going back to Victorian England. That tradition carried over to the States, and three races of the Triple Crown have been fashion events for America's upper class for well over a century. As a social engagement, the greatest of the three big races is The Kentucky Derby, and the greatest part of the race is the Kentucky Derby outfits. Churchill Downs Racetrack in Louisville, Kentucky, becomes the fashion capital of the South for one weekend every May.

The rise of social media and "fit" culture have led to a boom in Kentucky Derby parties across the country over the past ten years. An event that used to be a niche interest to horse racing and gambling enthusiasts, along with the few people wealthy enough to attend the event, has become a national fashion event. People who have no interest in horse racing and will probably not even watch the race (there are a number of races happening all day, culminating in the actual headline race) gather together over their shared love of dressing up and partying. It has become an occasion to be seen, both #IRL and on every social media platform.