IWC has become synonymous with pilot’s timepieces and was one of the first brands to focus on the development of technically advanced watches optimised for aviation nearly a century ago. It started with years of supplying timekeeping instruments to military forces.
Later, IWC built upon those models and expanded them into collections for the consumer market. These timepieces have become favourites among not only pilots but also fans of the brand’s rich military and aviation heritage.
IWC first introduced a dedicated Pilot series watch back in the 1930s, and by the 40’s the collection had showcased innovative features well ahead of it’s time. The watches were equipped with attributes such a shatter-resistant glass crystal, highly legible, high-contrast hands and numerals and an antimagnetic escapement – making it highly resistant to temperature changes.
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IWC continued to launch Pilot inspired watches through the decades. However, it wasn’t until 2007 that they became the first watch brand to receive special license from the U.S. Military to produce the IWC Top Gun series.
The Top Gun line spoke to the spirit of aviation and the new watch was designed to honour the U.S. Navy fighter pilots who concluded their training curriculum – the “Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor” program, often referred to as “Top Gun”.
This new collection was created with input from the U.S. Navy’s Top Gun personnel and featured a unique double chronograph function, allowing wearers to record two different time intervals simultaneously. It also featured a ceramic cases and day-date functions.
Since the success of the initial series, IWC has gone on to produced more variants of the IWC Top Gun line, continually evolving the collection. Making use of high-grade materials like titanium and ceramic this line of watches is well-known for its robust durability and prestigious military background.
Since it’s inception, IWC has continued to evolve the model by including features such as a Perpetual Calendar, oversized titanium crown and case sizes up to 48mm in size!
IWC is the only watch brand to have gained an official license to provide watches for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, including those for Top Gun, Blue Angels as well as over 300 active and inactive squadrons. Exclusively issued to current and former members of the specified units, the squadron watches from IWC feature an individual engraving of their owner’s name and call sign.
Over the years, the Top Gun watch has become a true icon of IWC’s Pilot’s Watch line, and is now known and respected around the world
The IWC PILOT CHRONOGRAPH TOP GUN “Lake Tahoe” Edition is an impressive timepiece. The large 44.5mm white ceramic case and bezel are inspired by the freshwater lake and the wintery landscape surrounding it, located in western Nevada, and not far from the home of the US Navy’s TOP GUN school.
Time is displayed on the inky black dial and is clearly legible thanks to the applied indices and Arabic numerals. The minute and hour hands are coated with a luminescent material for optimal readability.
The advanced automatic movement helps power the 12-hour chronograph function which provides an impressive 46-hour power reserve. Water resistance is 60 metres while day-date complication completes the look.
If you’re looking for a classy and reliable timepiece with a special features, then the IWC “Lake Tahoe” Edition is a brilliant choice and offers excellent quality and performance.
The IWC Pilot Miramar is an excellent watch that speaks to the spirit of aviation and pays tribute to a U.S. military base with the same name, located in southern California.
With its robust 46mm ceramic case, sapphire crystal, luminous hands, and altimeter-style date display, the Miramar is a solid, reliable timekeeping instrument that’s sure to take any watch enthusiast’s collection to the next level.
Inside, the Miramar houses an automatic calibre 89365 movement, featuring an inhouse flyback chronograph. With an impressive 68 hour power reserve and 60 meters water resistance, the watch is also complimented by a green canvas strap. Thanks to its impressive features, the Miramar is perfectly suited for everyday wear in any situation – it’ll definitely make a statement whether you’re in the boardroom or on the beach.
Overall, the IWC Pilot Miramar is a great watch that combines classic style with quality craftsmanship. The robust design and unique details make it stand out from the crowd, and it will no doubt last for years to come. Highly recommended!
The IWC Pilot ‘Top Gun’ Ref. IW389101 is a great option for the serious watch enthusiast. The design of this timepiece is sure to be appreciated by those who admire the brand’s rich military and aviation heritage.
Launched to mark the release of the new “Top Gun 2: Maverick” Hollywood movie, the IWC Pilot: Top Gun features a sculptured 44.5mm matt black ceramic case that contains an advanced in-house 69380 calibre movement.
Providing 46 hour power reserve and 60 meter water resistance, the titanium screw-down crown and pusher buttons at the two-and four-o’clock positions control the chronograph and stopwatch with aplomb.
The solid black dial features bold white Arabic numerals, which is accompanied by luminous hands and markers. The black textile strap, which adds to the aviation aesthetic, makes for a comfortable fit, while the day-date window completes the stealthy, utilitarian design.
To sum up, the IWC Pilot ‘Top Gun’ is an attractive timepiece that brings together classic style and technical accuracy.
For those who are looking for a timepiece that’s versatile and can compliment anything in your wardrobe, this is sure to be a great option.
The IWC Top Gun Pilots Watch collection has become a true icon since its inception. From its origins honouring the elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots in 2007, to the latest released models, it’s clear that IWC is a brand that packs performance, precision, and style into each and every timepiece produced.
From the chronographs to the moonphase and spitfires models, the Top Gun timepieces from IWC embody the spirit of aviation and the brand’s rich military and aviation heritage.
Whether you’re a pilot or simply admirer of quality timepieces, the IWC Top Gun Pilots Watch collection is certain to create an impression.
If you’re looking to own a piece of aviation heritage, our collection of IWC watches offers a range of options. Browse our selection and find the perfect Pilot-inspired timepiece that resonates with your style and passion.
No matter which IWC watch you choose, you’re sure to experience quality craftsmanship and prestige. Your IWC watch will last for generations and can even increase in value over time.
Best of all, BQ Watches makes it incredibly convenient to shop for your next used watch by making our full selection available on our online shop. You can buy from anywhere and trust you’re buying from the best. We also specialise in excellent customer service, so feel free to reach out with any questions you may have. We’re also happy to host you in our beautiful London showroom if you happen to be in the area. There’s nothing like trying on a luxury watch in person!
At BQ Watches, we share your enthusiasm for IWC Top Gun aviation watches and the world of luxury timepieces. Our team of experts is dedicated to assisting you in finding the ideal watch that aligns with your preferences and personality.
Whether you’re a aviation enthusiast or a watch collector, we’re here to guide you through our curated selection, answer your questions, and provide you with exceptional service that matches the quality of the watches we offer.
