IWC Big Pilot’s Heritage IW501005

The IWC Big Pilot’s Heritage IW501005 (introduced 2017) is a near-perfect recreation of the legendary Beobachtungs-uhr (B-Uhr) observation watches supplied to the Luftwaffe in the 1940s, now scaled to a bold yet wearable 46mm titanium case. With its matte black dial, oversized diamond-coated luminous hands, massive chapter ring, and iconic propeller-style triangular marker at 12, this is the closest you can get to wearing an original 1940s Big Pilot without spending six figures.

Crafted from lightweight, bead-blasted titanium (just 120 grams on the wrist) and limited to a 15.3mm thickness, it houses the in-house Calibre 52110 automatic movement: twin barrels, Pellaton winding with ceramic components, and a remarkable 7-day (168-hour) power reserve shown at 3 o’clock. The soft-iron inner cage provides full anti-magnetic protection, while the sapphire crystal is secured against sudden pressure drops—just like the originals.

Delivered on a calfskin leather strap with rivets and a titanium tang buckle, plus the engraved “Big Pilot Heritage” caseback, the IW501005 captures raw military aviation history in a modern, wearable package. Discontinued in 2022, pre-owned examples now trade between $8,900–$11,800 (late 2025) and remain one of the most coveted modern pilot’s watches.

Key Features of the IWC Big Pilot’s Heritage IW501005:

• Authentic 1940s Design: 46mm titanium case, black dial with massive luminous hands and chapter ring — a faithful tribute to the original B-Uhr.
• In-House Calibre 52110: 7-day power reserve, Pellaton winding, ceramic components, and soft-iron anti-magnetic cage.
• Lightweight Titanium Build: Bead-blasted case and riveted calfskin strap for vintage look with modern comfort.

This timepiece has undergone a thorough inspection of water resistance, accuracy, functionality and condition to determine the level of reconditioning required to meet our strict standards. It has also been referenced against technical documents and manufacturer records where available to ensure authenticity and a clean history.

Topwatch 12 Month Warranty Included.

Orders are dispatched from Topwatch during normal South African business hours, which are 08:00 to 17:00.

For our customers, we only accept the lowest cost and safest delivery procedures possible. All packages shipped via Topwatch are fully insured against loss, theft & damage during transit at no extra cost to you.

Due to the valuable nature of Topwatch products, we require a signature from an authorised person for your delivery at your nominated delivery address. Products will be deemed received by you, if accepted by a person at your nominated delivery address.

Insurance applies until the order is delivered to your nominated address. Delivery details must include a daytime contact telephone number. *Post Office boxes cannot be used for deliveries by our Couriers.

Overseas deliveries may be subject to import charges and other local taxes. Any such charges are the responsibility of the customer. Customs restrictions may also apply.