Developed by IWC’s XPL division specifically for spaceflight, IWC Pilot's Venturer Vertical Drive rethinks nearly every interaction traditionally associated with mechanical watchmaking. Most striking is the patent-pending Vertical Drive system, which eliminates the crown in favour of a rotating bezel and integrated rocker switch — allowing astronauts to wind the movement and adjust functions while wearing pressurised gloves. Its stark white zirconium oxide ceramic case, paired with Ceratanium elements and a black high-legibility dial, gives the watch an almost futuristic clarity that feels purpose-built rather than stylistic. The dual-time display is equally functional, with a dedicated 24-hour mission time indication designed specifically for orbital environments where conventional day-night cycles become meaningless. Inside, the in-house calibre 32722 delivers an exceptional 120-hour power reserve, alongside a hybrid winding system that functions efficiently even in microgravity. The result is not simply a luxury sports watch, but a serious mechanical response to the realities of space travel.
Full Specification
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Brand IWCCollectionPilot’s WatchesSeriesN/AModel NoIW328601
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MovementFeatures Date, GMTMovement AutomaticCalibre 32722CaseCase Size 44.4 mmCase Thickness 16.7 mmCase Shape RoundCase Material CeramicLug Width 20 mmGlass Material Sapphire CrystalDialLuminosity On HandsDial Colour BlackStrapStrap Material RubberStrap Colour WhiteClasp Type Pin BuckleBuckle/Clasp Material CeramicOtherGender MenWater Resistance (M) 100Warranty Period 2-year warranty, extendable to 8 years. Register hereCountry of Origin Switzerland
Collection Video Discover the Pilot’s Watches Collection
About the IWC Pilot’s Watches Collection
The IWC Pilot's Watches is a collection of dependable timepieces designed for the cockpit. However, with an ultra-chic aesthetic, it is no surprise that it ventured out of the aviation world and landed on the wrists of watch collectors around the globe. Its journey began in 1936 with the Special Pilot's Watch and progressed into the 1940s with iconic models like the Big Pilot's Watch Calibre 52, designed for the German military and the Navigator's Wristwatch Mark 11 for the British Royal Air Force. These watches became a top choice amongst the best militaries in the world primarily due to IWC being an early adopter of innovative materials, mechanisms, and functionality. And it's this spirit that has made the Pilot's Watches one of the most sought-after timepieces throughout watchmaking history and even more today.
Design And Features
With a form aimed at achieving functionality, IWC Pilot's Watches bring the best of both worlds. These watches gained early attention for their large round case and bold sans-serif Arabic numeral hour markers, choices that delivered high legibility. Throughout the journey of over 80 years, the design signatures of the Pilot's Watches have remained unchanged. An IWC Pilot's Watch is easily recognisable by its distinctive onion-shaped crown, unique 12 o'clock marker, and minimalist dial. Modern Pilot's Watches have enhanced their functional aspects by incorporating additional complications such as perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, tourbillons, and more. Also mechanically, Pilot's watches have always run on robust movements, which IWC are renowned for, offering high precision and excellent details like a whopping seven-day power reserve.
Iterations
The large and versatile family of Pilot's Watches include many well-known designs of the horological world. Watches like Big Pilot's Watch, TOP GUN, Spitfire, and the Mark Series are highly popular among serious watch enthusiasts, collectors, and even in pop culture. Each of these timepieces carries the original spirit of the collection and demonstrates the brand's passion for ingenuity. The current line-up of IWC Pilot's Watches is home to many handsome-looking timepieces featuring unique colour combinations and the use of innovative materials. It's a wholesome collection where functionality is unparalleled and style is aplenty.
ABOUT THE MOVEMENT
Inside the watch is the IWC-manufactured calibre 32722, an automatic movement developed for environments where conventional winding systems face limitations. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour with 21 jewels, the movement delivers an extended power reserve of approximately 120 hours. Its hybrid winding architecture allows the watch to be wound either through the oscillating mass or via the rotating bezel, ensuring reliable operation in both terrestrial and zero-gravity conditions. Developed alongside IWC’s Vertical Drive system, the calibre reflects the brand’s technical approach to space-oriented timekeeping and functional engineering.
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- Brand IWC
- Reference 32722
- Movement Automatic
- Display Analog
- Power Reserve Approx. 120 hours
- Jewels 21
- Frequency 28,800 bph
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