The Collector’s Collection – Speaking About The IWC Large Pilot Monopusher Petit Prince

For those who’re following our Collector’s Collection column, the title of the person who’s about to share his story ought to be acquainted. Tom, also referred to as Wtt1975 on Instagram, has many passions. On one aspect, he’s an organization proprietor concerned in car-related issues – one thing that deserves to be in our Petrolhead sequence. And on the opposite aspect, he’s additionally accumulating watches. Final week, he talked about his highly effective Chopard Alpine Eagle. As we speak, we’ll be speaking about one other outsized chronograph, a watch that additionally occurred to be the first-ever chronograph motion in a Large Pilot. As we speak, his IWC Large Pilot Monopusher Le Petit Prince is within the spotlights on MONOCHROME.

When did you first come into contact with IWC?

I’ve recognized IWC for 25+ years. It’s one of many best-known Swiss watch producers. Once I purchased my first TAG Heuer as a 19-year-old, I used to be already taking a look at an IWC, which was not reasonably priced for a pupil like myself.

What’s it you admire in IWC?

I believe that IWC is within the high ten of luxurious watch manufacturers and shouldn’t be lacking in any severe assortment. Their Large Pilot, Portugieser and Ingenieur (with the latter, the world-famous designer Gérald Genta has put this watch on the worldwide map!) are all nice fashions. These are very stunning watches of excellent high quality which were round for greater than 150 years. IWC can also be a sponsor of Autosport, which actually appeals to me, being a automotive fanatic myself.

Why did you choose this particular version Le Petit Prince of the Large Pilot?

I’ve been in search of a Large Pilot that I preferred since 2016. It needed to be a 46mm mannequin with blue dial, date and…an additional complication I used to be in search of…the chronograph! On the finish of 2021, IWC got here up with ‘my’ Large Pilot! I missed the premiere and noticed it on-line in the beginning of 2022. I emailed the seller in Zwolle, Aalbers Juweliers. Reply: we’ve one in inventory! Per week later I had it on my wrist, and bought! It’s a very stunning Large Pilot’s Monopusher Chronograph.

Does your watch get a whole lot of wrist time?

Sure, I put on this one commonly. Each throughout the week and on the weekend. Within the spring and summer time carrying a polo shirt, your wrist/arm will ‘pop’ out with this massive Large Pilot! Individuals can see what time it’s from a distance!

Do you get reactions?

Sure, due to the exceptionally stunning blue dial, the massive Arabic numerals which are brightly lit late at night time by the SuperLuminova superimposed on the numbers and fingers at night time.

What’s the present market worth of your watch?

I don’t know, however the watch remains to be accessible, though it was a small restricted version of 500 items. I paid 17,000 euros for it. However I don’t intend to promote the watch.

Shopping for is a special topic. After buying this Large Pilot I assumed I’ve a TAG Heuer sporty watch, a Hamilton pilot, a Ulysse Nardin diver, a Chopard Alpine Eagle sporty and this IWC Large Pilot, then it was fantastic. But there are nonetheless watches on order… the grass is at all times greener on the opposite aspect… and you continue to need one other one (For a listing verify the earlier interview)  

Personally, I don’t have a look at watches as investments. However in fact, you possibly can have a look at them that manner. You by no means know precisely which one will probably be price extra. For those who like one thing and you’re employed for it, you may give your self one thing stunning to place in your wrist. I do suppose you must be a bit watch loopy if you wish to personal 5-10 watches or extra. 

Any final ideas for fellow collectors?

Simply comply with web sites/weblogs like MONOCHROME for the newest information and traits in watch-land. Learn, watch evaluations and go to a jeweller and put the watch on the wrist. Actuality is commonly totally different (a lot nicer) than photos from the web or a YouTube video. At all times attempt to see the watch within the flesh.