IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Annual Calendar Edition “Le Petit Prince” with a Blue Movement

The unique Big Pilot’s Watch Annual Calendar Edition “Le Petit Prince” with a blue movement has been sold for 48,750 Swiss francs at the Sotheby’s autumn sale of Important Watches. The proceeds from its sale went towards supporting the launch of the foundation in the U.S.

The exclusive, one-of-a-kind watch is the only timepiece in the history of IWC Schaffhausen featuring a blue-colored movement. The entire process of manufacturing required around 1.5 years to develop and refine the striking blue caliber 52850. The movement plates and bridges have been coated with different metal oxides in order to achieve the perfect blue nuance.

The biggest challenge was to keep the thickness of the coating consistent and to achieve a completely even tone using the chemical vapour deposition technique (CVD). Combined with the blue screws and red gemstones, the blue mechanism makes the perfect backdrop for the 18-karat red gold rotor on which the Little Prince is standing on his small planet staring out at the starry night sky. The back view offers a look at the marvelous blue movement and a miniature depiction of the little prince.

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Annual Calendar Edition “Le Petit Prince” (ref. IW502704) is housed in the 18-karat red gold case measuring 46mm in diameter. The sunray finished dark blue dial comprises three separate windows for annual calendar functions – month, date, and day of the week – situated at the 12 o’clock position. There is also a power reserve display placed at the 3 o’clock position, which is well-balanced with the small seconds counter at the 9 o’clock position. Furthermore, the red gold hands and appliques are filled with lume substance to provide a perfect legibility in low lightening conditions.

The caliber 52850 automatic movement is built on 36 jewels and provides an amazing 7 day-power reserve. The unique Big Pilot’s Watch Annual Calendar Edition “Le Petit Prince” is constructed to resists water pressure up to 60 meters (200 feet). The watch is mounted on a matte brown calfskin strap with decorative beige stitching, fitted with a red gold pin buckle.