• Apprentice
    28 Oct 2010, 1:37 p.m.

    Dear fans,

    I have two questions:

    1, Can anyone imagine the longevity of calibre 30110?
    I believe with regular maintenance, rolex watches can run for 100 years.
    not sure this Pilot XVI.
    2, Regular maintenance cost - has anyone had a regular maintenance done on their
    Mark XVI? What is the cost?

    Thank you in advance.

  • Master
    28 Oct 2010, 6:31 p.m.

    With reasonable care and servicing, IWCs should last longer than their owners. Servicing may seem expensive but parts are often replaced and the movements are disassembled and reassembled.

    My oldest IWC, a Cal 89, was made in 1948 and I confidently expect to be going long after I have gone. I suspect the Calibre 30110 is easier to maintain and more robust than the Cal 89. That's progress for you.

  • Apprentice
    28 Oct 2010, 10:13 p.m.

    I believe Calibre 30110 is a slightly modified ETA 2892-A2 which is said to be one of the most
    reliable movements made in Swiss watchmaking. It is very easy to maintain and repair. but
    I have no special feeling with any ETA movements. IWC calibre 89XX is much more special and
    so much more collectible. Don't you realise?! But I love Mark Pilot for its design. I wish to have it
    on my wrist for a long long time. Currently running 3-4 seconds plus per day.

  • Master
    29 Oct 2010, 7:36 a.m.

    With respect, I do realise. I also believe that the modified ETA should last longer than you or me. Rolex movements are good but I don't see why they should be a relevant yardstick for the longevity of movements. In 5 years time when the brand celebrates it's centenary the debate whether they are good for a hundred years or more can start.

    Incidentally, don't knock the ETA and Valjoux derived moments too readily. I posted something on a Valjoux based watch a couple of weeks ago. The post is entitled A Grand Day Out.