IWC Schaffhausen has nearly 90 years of experience in creating robust and precise watches that cater to the functional needs of pilots. As part of its “Professional Pilot’s Watches Program,” the brand collaborates with military squadrons from various countries and their pilots. One of the squadrons that the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has repeatedly worked with is Staffel 11. The history of this squadron goes back to 1925. To celebrate the squadron’s 100th anniversary, IWC Schaffhausen now presents its first ceramic chronograph as a tribute to Staffel 11.
Limited to 250 pieces, the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Staffel 11 (Ref. IW389112) is crafted in black zirconium oxide ceramic, a material that IWC pioneered in the luxury watch industry during the 1980s. With a Vickers rating second only to diamond, engineering ceramic ranks among the hardest materials on Earth. Ceramic is manufactured in a highly engineered process, which involves sintering a mixture of ceramic powders at extremely high temperatures in a kiln.
The black dial is imprinted with the emblem of Staffel 11, the imposing tiger, which plays an important role in the design of this special edition. A symbol of intelligence, fighting spirit and determination, the tiger is typically found on the vertical stabilisers of the squadron’s F/A- 18 jets. The pattern of the tiger’s fur is subtly mirrored in a discreet dark grey hue on the black dial. Additionally, the titanium case back is engraved with a tiger’s head and the squadron name, while also displaying the individual limitation number. Featuring IWC’s signature cockpit instrument look, the dial design is complemented with white indices and numerals. As a reference to the squadron, the 11 numeral on the dial is coated with Super- LumiNova® and will glow in the dark. The small seconds hand, the date in the day-and-date aperture, as well as the edges of the chronograph push-buttons are yellow, reflecting the colour of the squadron’s tiger emblem.
High-precision and robust chronograph engine
The Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Staffel 11 is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69380 calibre. This mechanical chronograph movement has been engineered with a strong focus on robustness, precision and reliability. Its column-wheel design ensures that the switching sequences are clearly defined, providing distinct tactile feedback when the buttons are pressed. The efficient double-pawl winding system generates a power reserve of 46 hours in the mainspring. The IWC-typical vertical dial layout places the stop minutes at 12 o’clock for easy and intuitive reading. Additionally, a soft-iron inner case effectively shields the movement from the effects of magnetic fields. The watch is fitted with a durable black rubber strap featuring the EasX-CHANGE® system, which allows the wearer to change the strap quickly and easily without the need for tools.
