Just back from the Las Vegas boutique

I was just in Las Vegas and had to pay a visit to the boutique. Although the boutique is actually just a part of a larger store selling other brand watches and jewelry, it does have a great selection of IWC, and IWC replacement parts. I was able to pick up a couple of replacement straps and to be able to examine what they had available before I purchased them was quite nice, especially because my 5004 came with a version of the strap I have only seen on a couple of other Big Pilots and I was able to get a replacement for the same style strap. I was not planning on picking up a new watch, but I came awfully close when a salesman brought out the Las Vegas Boutique limited-edition Big Pilot with the blue on black. The only other color on the dial was the white on black date and the white last day on the power reserve. The black strap had matching blue stitching that really accented the watch. It really is a striking look, albeit slightly hard to read as it has a stealth quality to it. The blue is really nice but does not offer much contrast against the black. I have to say I much prefer it to the Beverly Hills boutique limited edition Big Pilot that had a yellow-orange on black color scheme and a small seconds subdial. This watch was numbered 16 out of 50; I don't know how many are left but It was hard to pass up. If I didn't already own a Big Pilot I would have jumped on it but there are a lot of other watches out there and now with the new 8-day handwound movement, much to consider! The next time I check the forum, the blue on black BP will probably be on the wrist of a lucky dog on the other side of the globe!

Ben,the BP you refer to above with the yellow-orange layout, is the "City of Angles" Limited Edition. If the one there was number 12 instead of number 16, I know someone who would add it to his collection, which ALREADY includes that fantastic stealthy blue styled version!

Unfortunately for me, if a Vegas trip is planned my wife is quick to remind me of a saying that ends with "....in Vegas, stays in Vegas!?" That, puts an solid damper on my ability to buy watches in the boutique there :~)

Good to know they have lots of spares and replacement straps.

Best regards
Mark

Ben, Both the Las Vegas and Beverly Hills boutiques have the blue numeral/black dial limited edition Big Pilot you describe.

Ben, I bought the LA version of the blue Big Pilot and I understand your statements about readability. However, one of the aspects I did not understand until I wore the watch is the very classy look it provides. Sort of like a Big Pilot hidden in a 5001.
Thus you end up with a sporty watch with an elegant look.
This has quickly become one of my favorite pieces.

Thank you for posting the photo, That is really a gorgeous Big Pilot and it is again tempting me!