The history of IWC Pilot's Watches dates back to the early 20th century when the brand embarked on a journey to create timepieces specifically designed for aviators. In 1936, IWC introduced its first special pilot's watch, the IWC Special Pilot's Watch, also known as the "Spezialuhr für Flieger." During World War II, IWC further solidified its reputation as a leading watchmaker for pilots by producing navigation watches for military purposes.

These watches featured large dials with luminescent hands and numerals for easy readability in low-light conditions. In 1948, IWC introduced the legendary Mark XI pilot's watch. This timepiece became a standard issue watch for many air forces worldwide and was renowned for its accuracy and reliability. Over the years, IWC continued to innovate and develop new pilot's watches. In 1994, they launched the iconic Pilot's Watch Double Chronograph, which incorporated a split-seconds chronograph function ideal for measuring short intervals during flight.

What's on Offer

The Mark XI entered military service in 1949 and was decommissioned in 1981. It was not replaced in the Mark line until 1993, when this watch, the Mark XII, was introduced. This reference marries the functionality of contemporary watch-making ie an automatic movement and date function, with the austere style of wartime watches. A little more refined than the issued watches of the past, this reference marked the transition of these timepieces into civilian wear. This 1996 example is in superb condition with minimal signs of wear to the caseback but nothing we wouldn't expect to see or are concerned by. The dial is perfectly preserved, rich black with bold Arabic numerals and a subtle date aperture at 3 o'clock and original lume on the hour plots and hands which is a beautiful pale vanilla colour. The caseback is engraved with Die Fliegeruhr Automatik. This watch is a nice size at 36mm yet remains light and comfortable on the wrist. It is paired with a replacement strap in beautiful brown nubuck with contrast stitching which looks great. Sold with its original box and papers, this piece is very collectable and rather rare, and we are pleased to offer it for sale in such nice