IWC continues to grow its line of ceramic-cased pilot’s watches with the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Miramar (ref. IW389409). A limited edition of 1,000 pieces unlike most other ceramic models that are regular production, the Miramar joins the pilot’s watches with ceramic cases in white, dark green, dark blue, beige, and of course classic black.

For someone who wants the same colour, but for half the price, IWC has also launched the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 with a “Miramar blue” dial and stainless steel case (ref. IW388117) that’s regular production.

Initial thoughts

The IWC aviator’s watches with ceramic cases are generally appealing, the ceramic cases add a cool factor to an otherwise standard and functional design. But there are now a lot of them in multiple colours. The range of colours feels a little much, especially for a watch that meant to be rooted in aviation instruments. Because of the historical basis of IWC’s pilot’s watch line, the collection has always seemed a bit more serious minded, but the many colours run counter to that.

That is, the Miramar itself is a likeable watch. The colour is unusual and fun while also being different. It brings to mind the fashionable shade of baby blue associated with Tiffany & Co., but is clearly different in being darker. And IWC’s build quality is always reliable; the cal. 69380 inside is an industrial workhorse found across the brand’s catalogue.

The Miramar is also priced correctly, though not inexpensively. It retails for US$13,500, which is in line with IWC’s other ceramic models and fair enough for a limited edition in a novel colour.

Pantone approved

The colour of the ceramic case was developed in collaboration with industrial colour specialist Pantone. And according to IWC, achieving a reliably consistent colour across the production run of cases was a challenge.

The dial and rubber strap were then made to match the dial; even the hands are coated in a similar hue of blue. The calendar discs, however, remain white and look out of place.

As is typical for ceramic cases, the crown and pushers are in titanium, as is the case back. Like the rest of the Top Gun line, the back is engraved with the emblem of the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, better known as Top Gun, thanks to IWC’s partnership with the military academy.

Under the solid back is the cal. 69380, an automatic movement found in most of IWC’s chronographs. It’s a proprietary calibre that was developed in house as a workhorse movement for the brand’s affordable and mid-range chronographs.

The Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 (ref. IW388117)

Key Facts and Price

IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Top Gun Miramar
Ref. IW389409

Diameter: 41.9 mm
Height: 15.5 mm
Material: Light blue ceramic
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 69380
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, day, date, and chronograph
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 46 hours

Strap: Blue rubber strap rubber with pin buckle

Limited edition: 1,000 pieces
Availability: At IWC boutiques and retailers
Price: US$13,500

For more, visit IWC.com.