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Two case materials, one bold new shade of blue. IWC expands the TOP GUN lineup with a fresh Pantone® colour inspired by the elite instructors of naval aviation.

IWC Schaffhausen is upgrading its TOP GUN collection with another stunning colour in ceramic. The brand has quite an extensive colour range already for this collection, showcasing their expertise when it comes to manufacturing this material. It was only last month that I covered IWC Schaffhausen giving the standard time and date Pilot’s 41 model, the Mojave Desert treatment, a popular colour within the TOP GUN Pilot’s ceramic collection.

The world of naval aviation has inspired the colours of TOP GUN Pilots’ watches. In collaboration with Pantone®, the brand has so far created colours that reflect the different facets of this world, from the sandy tones of the Mojave Desert, the icy whites of Lake Tahoe, the deep forest hues of Woodland, the rich maritime blue of Oceana, and the tacticle stealth of Jet Black. Each colour isn’t just aesthetic, it tells a story of where pilots operate, the conditions they face, and the spirit of adventure and precision that defines the TOP GUN Collection.

Now, for this latest release, IWC Schaffhausen releases a new shade of blue, named TOP GUN Miramar. This new shade of blue draws inspiration from the light blue t-shirts worn by TOP GUN instructors beneath their flight suits. These instructors are among the most elite aviators in the world, having undergone rigorous training and selection. The new colour pays tribute to their skill, discipline, and the respect they command within the aviation community.

Case Design

IWC is presenting these latest Pilot’s Watch chronographs in two case materials. Firstly, the 41.9mm x 15.5mm Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 TOP GUN Miramar (Ref. IW389409) comes in a light blue ceramic case, which is beautifully complemented by a water-repellent rubber strap in the same colour. Then we have the 41mm x 14.5mm Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 (Ref. IW388117), which marks the first time IWC Schaffhausen introduces a Pantone® color in a stainless steel watch. As expected, the stainless steel case features a mix of finishes, which include satin brushed for the surfaces of the lugs and case sides, along with polished finishing for the crown, chronograph pushers, and bezel. The models also have two varying case sizes due to two different movements used inside, alongside the ceramic case featuring a soft-iron inner case for magnetic field protection.

Dial Design

Both models feature the same signature dial layout of the TOP GUN Pilot’s chronograph collection, this time visually enhanced by this new stunning shade of blue. The white elements of the dial, such as the SuperLumi-Nova filled hands and hour indices, the minute track, and the white day and date wheels, add the perfect contrast, which greatly increases legibility. What it also does is elevate the dial’s presence, giving it a crisp, contemporary look which feels fresh without straying from the military-inspired aesthetic of the collection.

Movement

As mentioned earlier, while both models feature the same dial design, the engine sitting inside is different. The ceramic Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 TOP GUN Miramar uses the IWC-manufactured calibre 69380, which operates at a high accuracy of 4Hz (28,800 VpH), while delivering 46 hours of power reserve. On the other hand, the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 features the IWC-manufactured calibre 69380, which has the exact same operational output.

The Miramar version comes with a closed caseback, which features the signature TOP GUN logo, while the standard Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 features an open caseback that showcases IWC Schaffhausen’s attention to detail through the various finishing techniques. From the Geneva stripes on the bridges to the perlage on the baseplate, it offers a glimpse into the mechanical craftsmanship that powers the watch: a small, but satisfying difference for those who enjoy seeing the movement in action.

Initial Thoughts

Limited to 1000 pieces, the new Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 TOP GUN Miramar (Ref. IW389409) is more than just a new colourway; it’s a statement piece that honours the legacy and elite status of TOP GUN pilots. With its unique light blue ceramic case and matching dial, this new TOP GUN Pilot’s chronograph brings a fresh yet purposeful energy to the collection, all the while staying true to the military-inspired DNA of the TOP GUN line.

Alongside this release is the standard Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41, a stainless steel model featuring the same shade of blue on the dial and strap. While it may not carry the exclusivity or ceramic case of the Miramar version, it offers an accessible entry point into the collection, but more importantly, it introduces a Pantone® colour into a steel IWC Pilot’s Watch for the very first time.

IWC Schaffhausen continues to lead the charge when it comes to coloured ceramic innovation. From the Mojave Desert to Lake Tahoe, and now Miramar, each new release adds another layer of depth to the collection. Whether you’re drawn to the cutting-edge ceramic or the more classic steel execution, there’s no denying it: these latest timepieces are another strong entry in what’s becoming one of IWC’s most collectible modern line-ups.

Specification: PILOT’S WATCH CHRONOGRAPH 41 TOP GUN MIRAMAR (REF. IW389409)

Australian Recommended Retail Price: AU$ 20,800

Availability: Limited to 1000 models. Available now through IWC Schaffhausen boutiques and authorised retailers, or head online to IWC.com.au

Specification: PILOT’S WATCH CHRONOGRAPH 41 (REF. IW388117)

Australian Recommended Retail Price: AU$ 12,200

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