Super Clone IWC Delights with Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Le Petit Prince

The story has been translated into over 250 languages and is considered the most renowned work by the French aviator and author. It narrates the journey of the little prince across seven planets and their inhabitants. In collaboration with the heirs of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, replica IWC has dedicated several Pilot’s Watches to this beloved novel since 2013. Just as Saint-Exupéry intertwined writing and flying, these special editions with deep blue dials combine poetry with engineering.

To mark the 10th anniversary of the “Le Petit Prince” editions, the Swiss luxury watchmaker has introduced another special edition replica Big Pilot Watch to the collection. Limited to 300 pieces, the Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince (Ref. IW329502) features a case and crown made of 18-carat Armor Gold, an alloy that is harder and more wear-resistant than traditional 5N gold due to its improved microstructure. The 43mm case contrasts beautifully with the deep blue dial, which boasts a radiant sunray finish. The gold-plated hands and appliques, filled with Super-LumiNova, glow mysteriously in the dark.

The standout technical and visual feature is the flying minute tourbillon at 6 o’clock. “Tourbillon,” French for “whirlwind,” involves the balance, balance wheel, and escapement rotating around its axis in a small cage. This constant rotation not only provides a captivating visual on the dial but also minimizes the effect of gravity on the watch’s oscillating system, enhancing accuracy. Thanks to the integrated tourbillon stop, the mechanism can be halted, allowing the watch to be set with down-to-the-second precision. The advanced tourbillon consists of 56 parts and weighs only 0.663 grams. The pallet lever and escape wheel are treated with Diamond Shell technology, a special coating that reduces friction and enhances energy flow in the movement.

The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 Tourbillon Le Petit Prince is driven by the replica IWC-manufactured 82905 calibre movement. This automatic calibre features a Pellaton winding system strengthened with ceramic components. By utilizing the rotor’s movements in both directions, it efficiently builds up an 80-hour power reserve in the mainspring. A special highlight is the rotor made of solid 18-carat gold, shaped like “The Little Prince” standing on his asteroid. This charming detail, a nod to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved novel, can be admired through the transparent sapphire glass case back.