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A chronograph born for the big screen, forged in gold, and fuelled by Formula 1. The latest IWC Pilot’s APXGP Watch Performance Chronograph 41 isn’t just a watch; it’s a celebration of performance, precision, and pure emotion. From the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG to the cinema, and now on my wrist, this is one experience I won’t forget anytime soon.

This review is unlike anything I’ve written before, because the watch at the heart of it is unlike anything I’ve experienced before! The IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 isn’t just another Pilots Chronograph model; it’s a symbol of speed, cinema, and precision engineering all rolled into one!

Opening in cinemas throughout Australia today is the F1® THE MOVIE. This highly anticipated racing feature is a movie that promises to immerse moviegoers in the high-octane world of FORMULA 1®. Produced by Apple Studios, the movie features none other than Lewis Hamilton having a “producer” role where he helps lead actor Brad Pitt and Damson Idris hone their driving skills and get the fine details of Formula 1 ironed out.

The Watch Advice team had the pleasure of attending the movie premiere, and I must say, being a Formula 1 fan, it is a movie that I can watch countless times. In fact, I’m planning on seeing it again this weekend! Without getting too much into the story, the F1® THE MOVIE follows the rise of the fictional racing team APXGP, as they battle their way through the vicious and unforgiving world of Formula 1. What made this movie so appealing to me isn’t just the drama; it’s the realism. As we know, the movie was shot during actual races of Formula 1 from past years, so I got to see real F1 tracks, real race weekends, real teams, and of course, real sponsors, like IWC Schaffhausen.

IWC Schaffhausen’s role in the F1® THE MOVIE is being one of the official team partners of the APXGP racing team. As you’d expect from Formula 1 advertising, you can see IWC’s logo throughout the movie, from the racecar to the team racing suits. As expected, IWC Schaffhausen also made exclusive timepieces for the movie. Two special editions of the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph were made in paying tribute to the official partnership with the APXGP racing team.

One of these timepieces is the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 with the case and crown crafted from beautiful solid 18-carat 5N gold. The colour theme of the timepiece is black, white, and gold, which reflects APXGP’s team racing colours. Without spoiling the movie, this timepiece is worn by the rookie driver Joshua Pearce, who is portrayed by actor Damson Idris.

Now, you may be wondering (and for those that aren’t familiar with Formula 1), why did IWC Schaffhausen pick the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 as the go-to timepiece for this movie? The answer to this lies in IWC being the “Official Engineering Partner” with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team. And, how Mercedes ties in with APXGP is through quite a substantial role. Mercedes-Benz had significant involvement in the film’s production, with the brand providing technical expertise, vehicles, and even creating a paddock area in the track so that filming could take place during actual Formula 1 race weekends.

The APXGP Formula 1 cars we see in the movie are actual race-built machines and not just props. Working hand-in-hand with the engineers and designers at Mercedes-Benz, they were able to build full race-ready track Formula 1 cars. But as these cars will be used on set, the designers went a step further to find areas within the car where cameras could be set up, so that the action we see in the cinema is purely epic (I can definitely confirm this!) With Mercedes-Benz playing such a key role in the movie by lending their resources and support to the APXGP team, this is also why we see the Mercedes-Benz logo on the APXGP team racing suits.

But the connection runs deeper than just screen time. The IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 isn’t just a cinematic accessory; it is the very same model that serves as the team watch for the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team in real life. As the Official Engineering Partner of the team since 2013, IWC has equipped team members with precision chronographs that echo the speed, discipline, and cutting-edge engineering seen on the track. It makes perfect sense, then, to have the same watch be the on-screen precision chronograph for the racing drivers of APXGP.

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The Watch Advice team got together to create a very special project for this IWC release!

With so much horsepower behind this story, from Mercedes-AMG engineering to IWC’s racing DNA, we knew we had to make this review special, and thought, why not bring the best of both worlds together? As a tribute to the partnership between IWC and Mercedes-Benz AMG, we paired the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 with a modern-day icon: the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a car that needs no introduction. A truly amazing supercar with its unmistakable gullwing doors, long bonnet, and the naturally aspirated V8 roar, this is one of the most iconic cars to ever wear the three-pointed star. Built with the same obsession for detail and engineering excellence that drives Mercedes-AMG’s Formula 1 efforts, the SLS isn’t just fast, it’s bold and characterful and incredibly aesthetic. This is why it makes perfect sense to pair the new IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 with SLS. Both machines are built for those who appreciate precision, heritage, whether it’s behind the wheel or on the wrist.

Initial Thoughts

The first time I saw these new releases from IWC Schaffhausen was through the press when Mario and myself were here in Australia covering the Watches and Wonders releases. As part of the movie release, IWC released three new timepieces, two Pilot’s Watch Chronographs and one limited edition Ingenieur with a stunning green dial. All three models offered different aesthetics and wearability, but I’d be hard pressed to say that this Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 with its 18k gold case didn’t immediately stand out.

What makes this model work really well aesthetically is, in my opinion, the correct use of colour. While referencing APXGP’s team colours, the IWC has beautifully used gold, black, and white to make this timepiece very pleasing to the eye. Personally, I love the gold and black combo, especially when it’s paired with white elements on the dial. All three colours work exceptionally well, and IWC Schaffhausen has executed it in a way that isn’t overbearing, or making the dial feel overcrowded with all the chronograph sub-dials and large hour indices.

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When I finally got to see the watch in person and wear it for a few days, all the details I loved seeing through press photos seemed more “enhanced”. What I mean by that is the richness of the 18k gold case pops even more under natural light, with the contrasting white accents against the black dial feel sharper and more purposeful. It felt refined yet muscular, just like the APXGP car it draws inspiration from.

Pilots APXGP Performance Chronograph 41 – Case Design

IWC has kept the signature Pilots Watch Performance Chronograph case design intact with this release, which is great news for those who love the bold, utilitarian charm of the collection. This Performance Chronograph doesn’t try to reinvent the 41mm x 14.7mm thick silhouette, but rather gives it a refined appearance so that the wrist presence is greatly enhanced. The strong lugs, prominent pushers, and distinct crown all make a return, showcasing the timepiece’s classic pilot’s DNA, but just with a bit more flair.

As I wore the timepiece over a few days, what stood out to me was the luxurious finishing of the case. There’s a thoughtful contrast throughout, with the lugs featuring a clean, horizontal satin-brushed finish, while the crown and chronograph pushers are finished to a mirror-like polish. The same goes for the bezel edge, which plays with light beautifully thanks to its polished surface. This is the kind of detail that adds more character to the timepiece, making it feel more dynamic and giving the gold case extra depth from different lighting angles.

Speaking of gold, the 18-carat 5N gold case is really what takes this timepiece to the next level. I mentioned before that I personally love gold cases on timepieces, especially when they are paired with contrasting black dials. This is because it truly allows the gold to stand out beautifully. And this is exactly what happens in this Pilots APXGP Performance Chronograph 41, where the warm gold tone of the metal contrasts superbly with the black and white elements throughout the dial and strap. Unlike full gold pieces, which are luxurious and flashy, this presents a more cohesive look. The way the gold is combined with the different surface finishes gives the watch a sophisticated edge, while greatly elevating its aesthetic appearance.

The 18-carat 5N gold case makes it feel like a natural fit for the wrist of a Formula 1 driver. Bold enough to stand out in the paddock, yet refined enough to wear off the track. As we have seen already, the IWC Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph has earned its place among the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, with Lewis Hamilton frequently being spotted wearing various editions of the timepiece during his time there. This latest APXGP version, however, feels especially tailored for the Formula 1 world, a timepiece that balances high-performance with aesthetic looks that is perfectly in sync with the motorsport world.

Pilots APXGP Performance Chronograph 41 – Dial Design

What I first noticed about the dial is the way the bright white elements beautifully contrast against the deep-black lacquer dial. This includes the white Super-LumiNova-filled hands, minute track, day-and-date wheels, and the bezel’s engraved minute markers, all coming together nicely to give the timepiece a crisp and clear look with instant legibility. Under light, the watch dial looks stunning, and in low light conditions, the lume livens up the watch even more, driving home that classic pilot’s watch aesthetic.

Some pilots’ watches can feel cluttered, especially with the various sub-dials, the minute track, and large hour indices, but IWC has been able to, in this case, dial back the noise by abandoning printed sub-dials altogether. Instead, each chronograph sub-counter is stepped up a fraction of a millimeter, creating a shadow line that defines each counter. This keeps all the information intact, such as the constant seconds at 6 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 9 o’clock, and a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock, making the dial feel technical instead of being cramped. Adding to this refined detailing from IWC, the sub-dials also feature a fine circular groove finish, which subtly sets them apart from the rest of the dial.

The dial also features polished, gold-plated hour indices and hands, which echo the beauty of the 18K 5N gold case. When light hits the dial, these gold-plated elements shine beautifully. What makes it elements stand out even more is the contrast they achieve against the black lacquered background, giving a subtle reminder that this is a luxury watch as much as it is a tool watch.

I also particularly like the balance IWC has achieved with the placement of the sub-dials. A 6-9-12 sub-dial layout can skew the visual balance of a timepiece; however, IWC’s trademark solution brings everything back to the centre. The day-and-date window at 3 o’clock, flanked by the “IWC” and “Schaffhausen” signatures, forms a counterweight to read like a fourth “sub-dial”, achieving a balanced look on the dial.

IWC-Manufactured Calibre 69385 Movement

The high-octane engine running inside the IWC Pilots APXGP Watch Performance Chronograph is the brand’s calibre 69385 movement. This robust, in-house column wheel chronograph movement favours reliability, responsiveness, and long-term serviceability. The movement comes equipped with IWC’s efficient Pellaton winding system, which uses pawls and a bi-directional rotor to maximise the energy intake from every swing of the wrist, translating to a quiet but constant force of power. I like how the chronograph pushers feel when pressed; you get mechanical feedback that’s crisp, tactile, and reassuring, almost like shifting a gear with precision.

In a way, this movement does mirror what happens behind the scenes in Formula 1. The precision pit stops, the coordination of race engineers, and the many different systems that come together to work effectively behind the scenes. None of this is flashy, but all of it is essential and can make the point of difference between losing and winning, as we have already seen countless times throughout Formula 1. Operating at a high frequency of 4Hz (28,800Vph) to ensure a high level of accuracy, while also having a power reserve of 46 hours, the Calibre 69386 movement is built with the same mindset: tuned for precision, tested for endurance and always ready to perform when the lights go out!

The Pilots APXGP Watch Performance Chronograph does come with an open caseback; however, it has been blackened out so as to stay in theme with the APXGP team livery. While I understand this move, I personally think it could have been a shade or two lighter so that the beautiful movement finishing can be more easily seen. With that being said, the IWC further showcases their craftsmanship through the Calibre 69385 finishing, such as the skeletonised winding rotor with IWC logo, which also has a brushed surface, the perlage finishing on the movement plates, Côtes de Genève finishing and other subtle brushed textures throughout. One final touch that would’ve truly sealed the aesthetic? A gold winding rotor. Not only would it elevate the view through the caseback, but it would’ve driven home the black, white, and gold colour story of APXGP perfectly.

How Does This Pilot’s Performance Chronograph Wear?

On my 16cm wrist, the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 sits on the edge; however, the lugs don’t protrude out thanks to the sloped design and overall approximate lug-to-lug distance of 51.5mm. The timepiece wears like a real watch with wrist presence thanks to the strong lines of the case and lugs. As with other Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph models, it’s the type of watch that lets you know it’s there on the wrist, which is exactly what I like in a chronograph.

The black rubber strap that comes fitted as standard is soft and incredibly comfortable to wear, especially if you consider this timepiece as a daily watch. The watch comes paired with IWC’s integrated EasX-CHANGE® strap system, which allows for quick strap changes without tools. This can give you great flexibility, especially if you want to dress the watch up or down depending on the occasion. In an Australian climate, the choice of having a rubber strap is a smart move, breathable and resistant, especially when those warmer months roll around.

Thanks to the 14.7mm case thickness of the watch, it carries a certain weight and presence that I actually really enjoy in a chronograph. Unlike time-only models, which a thinner, I personally like having a bit more of a bulky watch for a chronograph, without it being overbearing on the wrist. This Pilot’s APXGP Watch Performance Chronograph does it perfectly. It’s thick enough to remind you it’s a mechanical instrument, but the curved lugs and case proportions keep it to everyday wearability!

Even with the gold and black colour combo, it feels a lot more versatile than you may think. It pairs really well with the more casual attire like my green bomber jacket (as you can see from the images); however, you wouldn’t look out of place under a coat or with a button-up shirt either. For something that was born out of motorsport, the timepiece transitions really well into everyday wear.

One of the standout moments wearing this watch was during our shoot with the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Sitting in the driver’s seat and then firing up that naturally aspirated V8 engine, all the while glancing down at the gold-cased chronograph, it just felt surreal for a moment, like I was almost part of the motorsport world. The black, white, and gold colour scheme instantly connects you to APXGP team racing colours, making you feel like a part of their world. This watch doesn’t just sit on your wrist; it gives you an emotional connection, something that you rarely get with tool watches, which IWC Schaffhausen has absolutely nailed here.

Final Thoughts

After spending some time with IWC’s Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41, I’m convinced that this is more than just another chapter in IWC’s long pilot-watch legacy. This is a full-throttle celebration of modern motorsport culture. With the various IWC x Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1-inspired timepieces we have seen over the years, this one feels like the most emotionally charged yet. This timepiece isn’t just inspired by the sport; it’s immersed in it.

The timepiece’s black-and-gold livery showcases APXGP’s race colours perfectly, while the 18-carat 5N gold case gives the watch a luxury finish that allows the watch to hold its own in the paddock or across the dinner table. Add in the movement that behaves like the race engineer you never see, but you know is tirelessly working to keep everything in check, quietly, yet relentlessly brilliant, and you can start to understand why this watch feels special to a motorsport enthusiast.

This feeling only amplified further when I slipped behind the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG for out shoot. The gullwing doors swung skyward, the V8 roared into life, while the chronograph’s black bezel reflected beautifully against the cabin’s carbon trim. In that moment, the line between track, screen, and street disappeared; I wasn’t just reviewing a watch, I was living a slice of the F1 dream.

Being invited to see the premiere of the F1® THE MOVIE only sealed the deal for me. Watching those APXGP cars dice through real-world race weekends and then spotting the same IWC’s Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 on Joshua Pierce’s wrist made the watch, the car, and the film feel like three different acts of the same story. These are memories I won’t forget anytime soon, the kind that remind you why we fall in love with cars, watches, and cinema in the first place.

If you have not seen the film yet, do yourself a favour: grab some popcorn and strap in. Even if you aren’t a motorsport tragic, if movies like Top Gun get your pulse racing, then this movie will be right up your alley. You’ll walk out understanding exactly why this IWC feels so special!

Specification: IWC Schaffhausen Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 (IW388309)

• Dimensions: 41mm x 14.7mm thick x 51.5mm lug-to-lug distance
• Case Material: 18ct 5N gold with polished and satin-brushed finishes
• Dial: Black lacquered dial with gold-plated hour indices and hands. White details through Super-LumiNova, minute track, and bezel tachymeter inscription.
• Water Resistance: 100m (10 Bar)
• Movement: Automatic IWC-manufactured Calibre 69385
• Movement Power reserve: 46 hours operating at 4Hz (28,800 VpH)
• Crystal: Sapphire glass, convex, antireflective coating on both sides
• Bracelet/Strap: Black rubber strap with 18ct 5N gold pin buckle.

Australian Recommended Retail Price: AU$ 45,900

Availability: Available now through IWC Schaffhausen boutiques and authorised retailers, or head online to IWC.com.au