There is perhaps no more versatile complication than the chronograph.
From race cars to rocket ships, boats to battlefields, you are likely to find a chronograph being employed to measure a plethora of tasks and times. From the Greek khrónos (“time”) and gráphō (“to write”), a chronograph is a watch that has the ability to record time, generally via the addition of small sub-counters that register minutes and hours.
And what better use for a chronograph than within the confines of a pilot’s watch? IWC makes some of the finest pilot’s watches in the world, with a history stretching back to the early decades of the 20th century. Indeed, its contemporary takes on classic military aviator’s timepieces are so embedded in the horological zeitgeist, that chances are when someone says ‘pilot’s watch,’ it’s an IWC that comes to mind.
Since its introduction, ceramic cases have been used extensively by IWC and other manufactures, starting with the Reference 3705 in the 1990s. Recently, it has expanded within the lineup with new and clever iterations being released every so often, including those in the Top Gun, Spitfire, and similar sub-collections.
This particular piece, a Reference IW389109, was produced in tribute to and partnership with the Blue Angels, the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squad formed in 1946. Measuring 44.5mm in blue ceramic with titanium pump pushers, a signed titanium crown, a smooth bezel, and a sapphire crystal, it features a luminous, matte blue dial with printed white 'Arabic' indices, a triple-register chronograph layout with a day/date at 3:00, a matching 'sword' handset, and the Blue Angels insignia above 6 o'clock.
Powered by the automatic IWC Calibre 69380 movement with a 46-hour power reserve and paired to a blue rubber strap with a textile inlay, this Reference IW389109 comes with its factory goodies. With low production and a unique color-way celebrating a famous squadron, this large tool watch by an industry leader in utilitarian timepieces is perfect for the outdoorsy type who wants a timing instrument that can stand up to hard use.
