IWC released the Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Chronograph at this year’s SIHH, it is a great watch for the traveler tracking multiple timezones.This new timepiece with its unique way of quickly adjusting for timezone changes while traveling.
Historically, the original system for adjusting the timezone through the bezel was designed and developed by Michael Vogt of Vogard timepieces and independent watchmaker Thomas Prescher. This unique technical system was seen on Vogard timepieces and it was patently different from other timezone watches, which needed to be adjusted via the crown or a pusher. In 2015 IWC purchased the patent to the design and after further adjustments, released the IWC Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Chronograph.
The sapphire crystal has anti-reflective coating on both sides for maximum legibility. It can be argued placing it just on the inner side would be better since the anti-reflective coating on the outside of the crystal can be scratched. Completing the look of the watch is a black calfskin strap made by Santoni with stainless steel clasp.
To ensure the bezel isn’t moved by accident, pressure has to be applied on the top and bottom half of the bezel which will then allow the user to turn the bezel thus rotating the city ring to the relevant city/timezone they are flying into; adjusting the hour hand and the red-tipped 24hr hand simultaneously. The date also advances forward or backward depending on the direction the bezel is turned while not having any effect on minutes and running seconds. Once pressure is released, the bezel remains fixed, allowing the wearer to keep track of the time of the city they are currently in and the time at their point of origin (home time).
The IWC Pilot’s Watch Timezoner Chronograph is a practical watch for the frequent traveler and the bezel system for adjusting for a different timezone is an intuitive feature facilitating ease of use. Priced at S$18,400, it provides great value considering the unique technical innovation (bezel system adjustment) and the flyback chronograph. At 45mm, it might be a tad large but thanks to its stainless steel construction, it’s still relatively understated.