IWC Introduces Two Performance Chronographs

Sports cars and sports watches have perennially made for a perfect pairing thanks to their mutual reliance on engineering and performance.

With the inaugural running of the Las Vegas Grand Prix just one week away, luxury watch brand IWC Schaffhausen is introducing two performance chronographs dedicated to its motorsport partners Mercedes-AMG and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team. IWC is the team’s official engineering partner.

The two companies have partnered on limited editions since 2004.

The Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 AMG utilizes a grade 5 titanium alloy to craft its case, crown and pushers and is used in automotive engineering to manufacture components for high-performance engines, making it 45 percent lighter than steel and remarkably rigid.

IWC has pioneered this hard-to-machine metal in the watch industry since 1980 when they released their first wristwatch with a titanium case and bracelet. 

Offered in two versions, one with a waterproof black rubber strap, and with a titanium bracelet with H-links and an integrated folding clasp. 

Last year, IWC introduced the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula OneTM Team,” and the official team watch, and now it is also launching a performance chronograph dedicated to its partner, the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team. This version’s case is crafted from Ceratanium, which has the structural integrity of titanium with the hardness and scratch-resistance of ceramic, and is finished with a black rubber strap with a Ceratanium pin buckle, as well as a version featuring a Ceratanium bracelet with an integrated folding clasp.

Both watch styles are powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre movement. A standout feature in both versions is the ceramic bezel with a tachymeter scale, which allows the wearer to measure the average speed in relation to the distance traveled, all by pushing the chronograph’s start button.

Pricing will range from $9,800 to $11,700 for the Chronograph 41 AMG, and $13,700 to $19,900 for the Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, which are available for purchase now via IWC’s website.