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The IWC Big Pilot 5002 was a landmark model in the iconic IWC Pilot model line. IWC combined its all-new manufacture caliber 5000 with the oversized vintage profile of the legendary Big Pilot. This Big Pilot 5002-01 combines the ultimate IWC pilot model with the legacy of an all-time hero of the air.

Since the release of the first Big Pilot historical tribute models in the 2002, the oversized instrument-style aviator’s timepiece has become a staple of the IWC catalog and a flagship product for the Schaffhausen-based watchmaker.

IWC acknowledges that the most direct inspiration for the modern 5002-01 Big Pilot’s watch is the pioneering 1940 Type 52 TS C, a 55mm monster originally commissioned by the German Luftwaffe. At the time, the size of the watch was dictated by the functional necessities of the professional end-user; maximum legibility; a robust case to sit atop thick aviation gear, and a vast pocket watch movement to ensure utmost accuracy (smaller wristwatch movements continued to lag in this respect until the 1950s).

The dial of the IWC Big Pilot’s watch 5002-01 is true to its inspiration in key respects. Each dial retains the look of an authentic aviation cockpit instrument; this is the strongest link to the 1940 original. However, the framed date window at six o’clock and the useful power reserve gauge at three o’clock add everyday practicality. Despite the size of the IWC Big Pilot, there is no impression of wasted space or extraneous detail; it achieves elegance in parallel with its functionality as a utility timepiece.

Inside the case, IWC's in-house caliber 5000 beats at 18,000 VpH. The caliber 5000 launched in the year 2000 as the successor to IWC’s half-century-old Cal. 8541 automatic. IWC' famed bi-directional Pellaton winding system, an industry benchmark since the early 1950s, features prominently in this automatic caliber. To ensure that the watch remains on the job even when it's off the wrist, IWC adds a generous seven-day power reserve.

A screw-fixed regulator, Breguet hairspring for six-position timing accuracy, and a shock-protected winding system set the IWC caliber 5000 further apart from its ETA-based rivals at other watchmakers.

This iconic IWC Big Pilot's Watch would be a knockout addition to any collection. With a stellar combination of historical authenticity and modern luxury watchmaking refinement, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 5002-01 result is a must-see collector's piece for fans of the IWC manufacture.

See this IWC Big Pilot’s Watch 5002-01 in high-resolution images on www.thewatchbox.com. Video and content by Tim Mosso.

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