IWC Big Pilot Top Gun Ceramic 46mm IW502001

The Big Pilot is IWC's most famous line of watches, and the Top Gun pieces tend to be their coolest. Combine them, and you've got one of the most iconic watches in the world executed in a stealthy black ceramic case for perhaps the most wearable of all the 46mm pieces.

The case itself measures in at the aforementioned 46mm, and 15mm thick which is 2mm thinner than previous Big Pilots, making it far more comfortable and suitable for a wider range of wrist sizes especially given the lack of weight compared with the steel references. Within this case lies a dial is more reminiscent of the original Big Pilot IW500203, with its triangular 12 o'clock index now moving back below the minute track, and the 9 now appearing on the dial, both of which create a more harmonious and balanced look compared to its predecessor. The case back features the signature Top Gun logo in relief.

Powering it is the calibre 51111 with its monstrous 168 hour power reserve, and features automatic winding so it really is a set and forget as long as you wear it once a week. It's finished off with the superb IWC textile strap with titanium deployant to match the titanium crown.

This particular piece was first sold in 2018 and presents in TZ 'Near Mint' condition. There's a very minor mark on the bezel above 12, and a tiny mark on the outer edge of the crystal near 6, but that's about it other than some strap change marks on the lugs. Please see images for full condition details.

Strap is in excellent condition, and the deployant shows some desk dive marks.

Service history is unknown. All functions operating as they should, and currently keeping time at around +13 seconds a day at full wind, dial-up on a timegrapher.

Includes inner box (shows degradation), instruction booklet, warranty card (expired), and guarantee booklet.

Now discontinued, don't miss your chance to pick up this superb example as they don't pop up locally too often.


Brand: IWC

Model #: IW502001

Circa: 2018

Case Material: Ceramic/Titanium

Case details: 46mm

Bracelet: IWC 'textile with deployant

Movement: IWC Cal. 5111, 42 Jewels. 7-day Power Reserve when fully wound

Dial: Black

Hands: Luminous

Paraphernalia: Inner box (shows degradation), instruction booklet, warranty card (expired), and guarantee booklet

TZ Grading: Near Mint

Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see below for details.