Schaffhausen-based IWC is arguably best known for its signature Pilot’s Watch collection, and this past summer the watchmaker launched one its most significant (and quiet) updates to the line for the year. Dawning the next generation of the historic Mark series, IWC in July introduced the Mark XX, following up on the vintage-derived line that began with the original Mark XI back in the post-war years. The new edition is in most ways similar to its predecessors, differing primarily in its use of a slightly streamlined design and updated movement.
The new Mark XX features a 40mm steel case with a primarily brushed finishing throughout, its proportions and silhouette keeping consistent with that seen in its vintage and modern forebearers. That said, a key differentiator in the design of the new model is in its slightly thinner case, now measuring at 10.8mm tall compared to 11mm previously, with the slightly reduction coming from the updated movement powering the model from within.
The new pilot’s watch features a familiar matte dial that is available in both black (IW328201) and navy blue (IW328203). Both dark-hued dial options are contrasted with printed hour and minute markers in a stark white. A date window featuring a black on white display rests at the 3 o’clock position, its colorway contrasting to the white on black of dial otherwise. The date window on the Mark XVIII (IWC skipped XIX) used a black-on-black design, see below, which had legibility issues which the Mark XX addresses.
Powering new model is the IWC in-house 32111 caliber, the automatic mechanism capable of a solid 120-hour power reserve. The caliber is notably an updated version of the 35111 caliber that powered the Mark XVIII, with the new 3211 being somewhat slimmer in design and in-turn allowing for a slightly slimmer case containing it. The itself is also upgraded, now hosting a 100m water resistance as compared to the XVIII’s 60m rating.
The new IWC Mark XX is available now at authorized boutiques and online via the brand’s website retailing for $5,250.
To learn more, visit IWC, here.
