IWC debuts its patented shock absorber system in a futuristic take on the Big Pilot's Watch
IWC
If Bruce Wayne special ordered an IWC to his specifications, we imagine it would look a little something like this. The Big Pilot's Watch Shock Absorber XPL features the brand's patented SPRIN-g PROTECT system, which has been in development for eight years. This system was successfully tested against g forces in excess of 30,000 g at the Fracture & Shock Physics group at the Cavendish Laboratory of Cambridge University.
To maintain the performance and operation of the movement, IWC created a special cantilever spring to help the watch withstand extreme forces. This helps cushion the movement and also uses a combination of Bulk Metallic Glass and a lightweight titanium casing ring, which protects the equally lightweight custom IWC 32115 automatic movement. The movement features a base plate made out of aerospace-grade, high-tech aluminum alloy and has a power reserve of 120 hours.
Continuing the lightweight theme is a 44mm case constructed out of Ceratanium, a proprietary titanium alloy that is as hard and scratch-resistant as ceramic. Each of these cases are milled from bars and is then fired at high temperatures in a kiln to achieve its high strength and matte black finish.
Due to the complex nature of manufacturing each watch, IWC plans to only produce 10 pieces per year and only 30 watches will be produced.
