IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team watch

The IWC Big Pilot's Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team is a timepiece that melds the precision of Swiss watchmaking with the intense demands of Formula One racing. This isn't your average collaboration; it's a fusion of engineering prowess from two leaders in their respective fields. IWC Schaffhausen and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, with the visible influence of Toto Wolff, have co-created a watch designed to endure the extreme conditions of the racing world.

This limited edition, reference IW356201, is more than a mere nod to motorsport. It's a testament to resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of perfection, much like the ethos that drives both IWC and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS team. Limited to just 100 pieces, this watch represents exclusivity and a dedication to cutting-edge technology, incorporating IWC's patented SPRIN-g PROTECT® shock absorber system. This system is not just a feature, it is the core concept of the watch, designed to safeguard the delicate inner workings from the brutal g-forces experienced in the cockpit of a Formula One car, or even during the exuberant celebrations of a team victory, as Toto Wolff has been known to demonstrate.



The SPRIN-g PROTECT® system, a marvel of engineering developed by IWC's experimental division, XPL, employs a cantilever spring that effectively isolates the movement from the case. This spring, crafted from Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG), possesses an amorphous microstructure, making it significantly more elastic than conventional metals. This design allows the movement to "float" within the case, absorbing the brunt of any impacts. To put this into perspective, tests conducted at the Cavendish Laboratory at Cambridge University demonstrated that movements protected by this system could withstand accelerations exceeding 30,000 g's. That's a level of resilience that goes far beyond the everyday bumps and knocks a watch might encounter.

Adding to the visual spectacle, and team affiliation, the BMG spring isn't just functional; it's also visually striking. It's coated with Petronas-green Super-LumiNova®, causing it to glow in the dark, a clear tribute to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS team's signature color. This vibrant green isn't just aesthetically pleasing; it highlights the technological heart of the watch, making the shock absorption system a visible feature. The use of Super-LumiNova® ensures that this critical component is highlighted even in low-light conditions, a functional and stylistic choice.

The 44mm case and crown of the watch are constructed from Ceratanium®, an IWC-developed material that brings together the best attributes of titanium and ceramic. It's as light as titanium, making it comfortable for everyday wear, yet it boasts a hardness comparable to ceramic, providing exceptional scratch resistance. This material choice speaks volumes about the watch's intended use; it's built to be tough, yet refined. The matte black finish of the Ceratanium® case provides a stealthy, modern aesthetic, a perfect backdrop for the vibrant accents.



The dial continues the technical theme, with a black, grainy texture that's stamped into the brass base. This textured surface adds depth and visual interest, preventing the dial from appearing flat or uninspired. The newly designed triangular black hands, with a modern and sporty silhouette, are also outlined with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring legibility in all conditions. The minute scale seemingly floats on lamellae surrounding the dial, enhancing depth and echoing the floating movement.

The driving force behind this robust exterior is the IWC-manufactured 32101 calibre. This automatic movement, boasting a double pawl winding system, provides an impressive 120-hour power reserve. That's five days of continuous operation without needing to be wound, a testament to IWC's commitment to creating practical, user-friendly complications. In keeping with the watch's overall aesthetic, the plates, bridges, and oscillating mass of the movement are blackened, contributing to the stealthy, all-black design. The 32101 Calibre is comprised of 154 components, and has 21 jewels. The movement also beats at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, or 4 Hz.

Turning the watch over reveals a tinted sapphire glass case back, offering a glimpse of the meticulously finished movement. The tinted glass adds a layer of intrigue, while still allowing the wearer to appreciate the intricate mechanics within. The case back of the watch also displays Toto Wolff's printed signature, a solid connection to the Mercedes team. The sapphire glass is secured against displacement, ensuring it remains intact even under significant pressure changes, a necessary feature given the watch's association with high-speed racing.



The watch is presented on an integrated Petronas green rubber strap, further emphasizing the connection to the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS team. The choice of rubber is practical, offering durability and resistance to sweat and moisture, making it suitable for an active lifestyle. For those who prefer a different look, an additional black rubber strap with a textile inlay is included, providing versatility.

The watch's water resistance is rated at 10 bar, which is approximately 100 meters. While not designed for deep-sea diving, this level of water resistance ensures that the watch can easily withstand splashes, rain, and even swimming. The screw-in crown further enhances the water resistance, creating a secure seal to prevent moisture from entering the 12.6mm thick case. The sapphire glass is convex and possesses an antireflective coating on both sides, this also helps the watch to remain extremely legible.

IWC Schaffhausen's history is deeply rooted in a pioneering spirit. Founded in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones, the company combined American production techniques with the skilled craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers. This unique blend of innovation and tradition has defined IWC's approach to watchmaking for over 150 years. IWC has a long-standing reputation for creating robust and functional timepieces, particularly pilot's watches and chronographs.



The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team is known for its dominance in the world of motorsport. Led by CEO and Team Principal Toto Wolff, the team has achieved unprecedented success, securing multiple Constructors' and Drivers' Championships. The team's relentless pursuit of excellence, its innovative engineering, and its commitment to teamwork mirror the values of IWC Schaffhausen. Toto Wolff, a prominent figure in the motorsport world, is known not only for his leadership but also for his passion for horology. This partnership feels natural. IWC and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ share a common ground in precision engineering and technological innovation.

The IWC Big Pilot's Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team is a statement piece, a fusion of high-performance engineering and bold design. Its features, include central hacking seconds, a feature allowing for precise time setting, alongside the already mentioned, innovative SPRIN-g PROTECT system, durable and complex Ceratanium Case, and additional rubber strap included.

The IWC's commitment to sustainability is also worth noting. The company actively sources materials responsibly and strives to minimize its environmental impact. This commitment to ethical practices adds another layer of appeal to the brand and its products. IWC's transparency about its materials is also very welcome.



The IWC and Toto Wolff partnership shows a shared dedication to pushing boundaries. They are not content with the status quo, always striving for greater performance and innovation. This shared philosophy is evident in every detail of the watch, from the advanced materials to the intricate movement.

This IWC Watch is available in a very limited run, with only 100 pieces available, for a price of $102,000. The exclusivity of this timepiece, coupled with its technological advancements, makes it a coveted item.

Case: Ceratanium®. 44.0 mm diameter. 12.6 mm height. Screw-in crown. See-through sapphire glass back. Water resistant to 10.0 bar.

Movement: IWC-manufactured 32101 Calibre. Automatic winding. 120-hour power reserve. 28,800 VPH (4 Hz) frequency. 154 components. 21 jewels.

Dial: Black. Grainy technical structure stamped into brass base. Triangular black hands with Super-LumiNova® edges. Outer ring with minute scale appears to float.

Strap: Integrated Petronas green rubber strap. Additional black rubber strap with textile inlay included as an accessory.

Price: $102,000

Reference Number: IW356201

Notes: Limited to 100 pieces. Features patented SPRIN-g PROTECT® shock absorber system capable of withstanding accelerations in excess of 30,000 g. Shock absorber spring is made from Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) and coated with Petronas-green Super-LumiNova®.