Please, educate me on IWC calibers ! (+ BIG PILOT)

Dear friends,

Since my last post, I have spent quite a lot of time considering IWC products. I have changed my mind and I have forgotten about the chronograph. I want a reallt TOUGH watch and therefore I think that a simple one would be better.

My prefered one is the BIG PILOT. Do you think it can be considered as one of the most rugged watches around ?

I am a bit confused about the caliber. When reading IWC nice catalogue, it seems to me that the 80000 caliber familly is described as "better" than the 50000 familly. It is clearly described as on of the most rugged movement, maximally protected.

Could you please comment and help me ?

Thanks again.

The most rugged calibre

If you really want a rugged calibre I would suggest you go for the 80110. It is the calibre of the Ingenieur. I read that it could be thrown on a stone flour without any problem. I do not recommend it, though. I myself have the titanium Inge Automatic, which also has an antimagnetic cage that is the strongest in the whole IWC range. And you can dive with it until 120 meter, most likely that gives you some leeway. So this watch is the tough one. It also looks tough, with its grey titanium case that is less prone to scratches. But I can assure you that it has a golden heart.

Kind regards,
Paul, wearing Saint Exupéry Chrono

100% with you Paul

About ca. 80XXX vs cal. 50xxx

Hi Aurel,

If you are looking for a "tough" watch, the Ingenieur Automatic cal. 80110/80111 is the one to go for. It has a shock absorption system (you will find info in the archives), is protected against magnetism (80,000 A/m), and water-resistant (not sure though if you should dive with it unless sealing is checked annually).
The only drawback I see is that the steel version scratches easily. You may want to consider the AMG version or the Climate Action. For me the Inge Autom (I own the CFI version) is the ultimate travel and outdoor-activity watch. However, keep in mind it is still a mechanical watch so always take good care of it.

I would not use the word "better". The Cal. 50XXX is a "different" family designed for different purposes. IT is still a great movement. And you cannot go wrong with the Big Pilot. It has the magnetic field protection, runs smoothly and looks great. It does not have the shock protection system but you do not want the watch to drop anyway and probably you also do not want to use an expensive watch for tough outdoor activities anyway.

So all in all, I would opt for the watch you really like.

All the best,
Peter

Try the Inge on, you will be..

Surprised how well it feels on the wrist. Have your AD size the bracelet for you, it only takes a minute or two.

I have written before that if I could only keep one watch, it would be the Ingenieur.

Kind regards,

Clemens