Few timepieces merge aviation heritage, haute horology, and literary inspiration as seamlessly as the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Le Petit Prince.” This special edition celebrates the legacy of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved novella, Le Petit Prince while pushing the boundaries of watchmaking with an exquisite flying tourbillon and an 18k Armor Gold case.
Limited to just 300 pieces, this watch is not only a collector’s dream but also a technical marvel that upholds IWC’s legacy of precision and craftsmanship.
A Tribute to Le Petit Prince: A Decade of Excellence
Since 2013, IWC has maintained an exclusive partnership with the heirs of Saint-Exupéry’s estate, producing a series of Pilot’s watches that pay homage to Le Petit Prince and its timeless themes of adventure, imagination, and exploration. This 43mm special edition marks the tenth anniversary of the “Le Petit Prince” collection with a refined, modern take on the classic Big Pilot’s Watch.
What sets this model apart is its deep blue sunray dial, a signature of the Petit Prince sub-collection, contrasted with gold-plated Arabic numerals and hands. The luminous coatings ensure exceptional legibility, a crucial trait in any true pilot’s watch.
Inside, the automatic IWC Calibre 82905 beats at 4Hz and boasts an impressive 80-hour power reserve, ensuring reliability even on extended journeys. The bi-directional Pellaton winding system, reinforced with ceramic components, enhances durability while maximizing efficiency. This movement represents IWC’s commitment to precision, proving that the Le Petit Prince edition is not just about storytelling, it’s about performance at the highest level.
Mastering Materials: The Strength of 18k Armor Gold
Unlike standard gold alloys, IWC’s proprietary 18k Armor Gold is engineered for superior hardness and resilience. While conventional 5N gold is prone to scratches and wear over time, Armor Gold undergoes a metallurgical transformation that enhances its structural integrity without compromising its luster. The result is a case that exudes both durability and opulence, further elevating the exclusivity of this limited edition.
This breakthrough in material science ensures that the Le Petit Prince edition remains as refined as the day it was crafted, even under rigorous conditions. Whether admired in a collector’s case or worn as a daily statement piece, the fusion of technical innovation and traditional luxury make this watch a true testament to IWC’s mastery of both form and function.
The Flying Tourbillon: A Display of Horological Mastery
At the heart of this special edition lies a complication reserved for true connoisseurs, the flying tourbillon. Positioned at 6 o’clock, this mesmerizing one-minute tourbillon serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. It compensates for the effects of gravity, enhancing timekeeping accuracy, while its open-worked design creates a captivating visual spectacle on the dial. The tourbillon is also equipped with a stop-second function, allowing for precise time adjustments, a rarity among tourbillon-equipped watches.
Own this exclusive timepiece today at La Maison Monaco, Canada’s trusted luxury watch destination.
The Power Within: IWC’s Calibre 82905
Driving this exceptional timepiece is the in-house Calibre 82905, part of IWC’s renowned 82000 family of movements. It boasts an advanced Pellaton winding system, reinforced with ceramic components for enhanced durability. The bidirectional winding mechanism ensures efficient power transfer, delivering an impressive 80-hour power reserve. Beating at a frequency of 4Hz, the movement ensures smooth, precise timekeeping while maintaining exceptional shock resistance.
A special detail that sets this edition apart is the 18k gold rotor, visible through the sapphire caseback. Crafted in the shape of the Little Prince standing on his asteroid, it serves as both a nod to the story’s whimsical charm and a symbol of the watch’s exclusivity.
Availability & Investment Value
With only 300 pieces produced, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Le Petit Prince” is a rarity in the watch world. Available at IWC boutiques, and authorized retailers such as La Maison Monaco. Given its limited production, historical significance, and inclusion of a tourbillon, one of horology’s most revered complications, this watch is poised to become a valuable asset in any collection.
