IWC Big Pilot Antoine De Saint-Exupery 5004-21 Luxury Watch Review

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The IWC Big Pilot 5004 was a landmark model in the iconic IWC Pilot model line. For the first time, IWC combined its high-beat cal. 51110 with the oversized vintage profile of the legendary 46mm Big Pilot’s Watch. This 18-karat rose gold IWC Big Pilot 5004-21 Antoine de Saint-Exupéry - one of only 500 made - combines the ultimate IWC pilot model with the legacy of an all-time hero of the air.

Since 2005, IWC has worked with the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Youth Foundation to release signature models whose proceeds benefit the foundation's goal of aiding underprivileged children around the globe. In addition to his aviation exploits, Saint-Exupéry himself was a celebrated champion of children's causes and the author of, among other works, "The Little Prince."

Both aviation and the Saint-Exupéry legacy of goodwill are embodied in the style and substance of this 5004-21. The reverse of its 18-karat case is engraved with the image of Saint-Exupéry in his vintage aviation gear, and the dial features his signature "A." motif at nine o'clock.

The dial adds rich applied indices, a luxurious anthracite soleil-pattern that radiates outward from the hands, and a contrasting date wheel that punctuates the two-tone impact of this tightly composed watch face. Despite its size, there is no impression of wasted space or extraneous detail; it achieves elegance in parallel with its functionality as a utility timepiece.

Inside the case, IWC's in-house caliber 51110 beats at 21,600 VpH. This upgrade to the original Caliber 5000 family adds a new balance regulation system and a higher beat rate that improves accuracy and isochronism under shock, temperature variation, and different positions. A hand-made Breguet overcoil hairspring ensures resistance to position-induced error (e.g., dial up, dial down, crown up, crown down).

IWC's famed bi-directional Albert Pellaton winding system, an industry benchmark since the early 1950s, features prominently in this automatic caliber. To ensure that the watch remains on the job even when it's off the wrist, IWC adds a generous seven-day power reserve.

Even without the Saint-Exupéry exclusive content, this iconic IWC Pilot's watch would be a knockout addition to any collection. Add the stellar legacy of an intriguing historic personality, exclusive style, and unique accessories, and the result is a must-see collector's piece for fans of the IWC manufacture.

See this outstanding IWC Big Pilot 5004-21 Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in high-resolution images on www.thewatchbox.com. Video and content by Tim Mosso.