Need help getting BP 5002 - watch virgin

Hello everyone,

I just recently jumped on the watch wagon - and it got me hard, so I've been lurking for some time and been trying to educate myself about the basics. So far I only had watches in the up-to-$300 price range.

At first I discovered Breitling 1461 (48 mm) and got hooked. But more and more I learned about watches and more watches I got exposed to, more I noticed IWC Big Pilot 5002 and now I desperately need one. My first ever proper watch and that's why I would need your help, watch connoisseurs, please.

Obviously, I need to buy a used one, which for the money that they go for is a little bit scary. Secondly, I'm not really sure whether the slow-beat or transitional movement would be better and why.

Would it be necessary to send it to Switzerland for authentication?

I'd appreciate any advice.

Thank you.

Hi everyone,

I noticed an IWC 5002 for sale with the probus scafusia crown and with case number 29577187
I was wondering if it is a transitional watch. Thank you very much.

Best wishes
David

If I may chime in here:
The watch for sure is not a transitional model (which is not a bad thing at all). I have a 5002-01 with serial number also starting with 295xxxx. This watch should be from 2003/2004 and have a 5011 movement. It seems to be consensus that the so called transitional models have serial numbers starting with 314xxxx or higher, were produced in 2005 and feature a 51110 movement. Originally the watch might have had the fish crown, but this likely was changed routinely during a service.

So if you want a transitional BP your search will have to go on. But let me assure you: there is nothing more relaxing than the 2.5hz slow beat of a first-series Big Pilot. :-)

Hi Jochen,

That is what I figured after the owner told me the watch was serviced in 2015. I know the transitional 5002 models usually demand a higher premium and honestly I prefer the original slow beat "standard" version.

Regards,
David