Founded in 1868, IWC Schaffhausen has a long history of producing iconic pilot and aviation watches. Their latest release is no different. Dedicated to IWC’s partner, Mercedes-AMG, the new collection features four watches, including today’s spotlight: IW388306 Pilot’s Performance Chronograph 41. The IW388306 in Ceratanium pays special tribute to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One team, led by British drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
So, let’s look at this stunning chronograph.
As mentioned above, this watch is held in an IWC’s Ceratanium case, a special material designed to be just as light as titanium while maintaining the scratch resistance of ceramic casings. It comes in IWC Certanium, created by Pantone for IWC. It’s not quite full-on-black but more subtle, matte, and cleaner, giving a lovely depth to the luminescence black dial that decorates the 41mm timepiece.
As you move around, the watch has a sporty black rubber strap with IWC’s EasX-CHANGE system, which allows you to change its strap with a simple click of a button. However, if you’re into comfy wear and like rubber straps, you’ll keep this one on.
Additional things we adore about this IWC watch is the open caseback, which has arcing text going around it with the watch’s title on the top and bottom. The tachymeter bezel is also worthy of mention that was initially utilised by pilots and race car drivers.
Wearing It
The stealthy yet sophisticated look of this timepiece goes well with activewear, plain black t-shirts, and sleek black half-zip runner jumpers.
If you’re looking for a daily piece, this could be a viable option with its discreet appearance.
Movement
This specific watch uses the 69385 Calibre, an automatic, self-winding movement often used in IWC’s Pilot watch range. With a power reserve of 46 hours, this chronograph watch is fun to wear on a daily basis.
Here are more details about 69385.
| Power Reserve | 46 Hours |
| Frequency | 28’800 VPH (4 Hz) |
| Jewels | 33 |
| In-house | Yes |
Final Thoughts
If you can cross the finishing line and acquire this timepiece for its price tag of £12,100, you won’t be disappointed. It has a proven calibre, a sleek design, and pays tribute to an iconic racing team which has flourished in the past 10 years of Formula 1 having won eight constructors’ championships.