The IWC Problem: Why Does No One Buy IWC?

IWC Watches - why don't we see more of them on wrists? We see lots of Rolex, Omega, Cartier, Seiko, Grand Seiko when we go to Redbar or see other people in the streets - but now as much IWC. How come?! That's what today's video is exploring. To me, I think it comes down to 3 main things: the sizes associated with IWC watches (I am thinking of the big Pilot especially - but just pilot watches in general wear large). It reminds me a bit of what is happening with Panerai. Panerai is associated with being massive watches and it just is not the preferred style of right now.
Next, is the price point. The problem is: at the price, there are just other watches people would prefer to buy. IWC is still great - and I don't think they have priced wrong - I just think it is a really competitve price.
Lastly, their brand identity. For me, I think of them as that pilots watch brand - when really they offer so much more. I think they just need to work a bit on their brand storytelling.
But those are my thoughts. What do you guys think to IWC?
HOW TO GET IN TOUCH WITH ME:
Insta : watch.gringa
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Patreon: / watch_gringa
TIME STAMPS:
0:00-0:35 - Intro
0:36-2:48 - the Eternal Calendar Blew my Mind
2:49-4:15 - Problem 1: Case Dimensions & Proportions
4:16-6:12 - Problem 2: Competitive Price
6:13-9:06 - Problem 3: Brand Identity
9:07-9:38 - I Hope This Doesn't Sound Negative!
9:39-10:04 - Outro
10:05-11:03 - THANK YOU PATRONS!

[@taitun4life]

Forget sizing. Pricing is their major problem. Solve that and they’ll move so much more quantities that they’ll see the real need to break into smaller sizes

[@swampscott2670]

Prices seem perfectly fine in this market. Sizing remains an issue even with some smaller options having been added. I was interested in the BP43 but even that is still too big. I’ll probably buy the XX at some point.

[@JRADisDPK]

Please find me a more affordable perp calendar with single crown rotating function ( not holes on the case that require pushers)made out of ceramic with exhibition case back with moonphase and 7 day power reserve with full applique indices with full super luminova and screw down crown .

[@AlsadsajsAlsadsajs-vl7th]

Sizing is fine.,,for my meaty wrists that is. The problem is definitely the pricing. Every time I’ve looked at them I end up spending less money on a Rolex, Cartier, or Omega.

[@JRADisDPK]

How can you compare a rolex to an iwc when it comes to complications and technological innovations ? There is no perp calendar , tourbillion , exhibitin case back ( minus the lemans plutona , and 1908) you want an exhibiton case back from rolex its a minimum of 29k for a 1908 . Lol its a joke the glazing your giving rolex when it comes to price tell me you only care about "status" instead of horology. ​@AlsadsajsAlsadsajs-vl7th

[@twang96]

IWC priced above Rolex when they should be more in line with Omega.

[@iMoha46]

the IWC problem is that I can’t AFFORD IT

[@BrittPearceWatches]

🤣🤣 you and me both!

[@jonathanvandriessche]

Amen 😁

[@MarzB-le3pv]

I was very interested in the new Ingenieur but the retail price is ridiculous

[@TobiasHenreich]

Made my day 😂

[@emmanuelrodriguez5044]

😂 😂😂 good one!!

[@georgen26]

the ingeneur was the pinnacle of IWC pricing mistakes.

[@TylerKTanaka]

Agreed. Sad really, because it’s a great watch. If they launched it sub

[@watchman8817]

It has the new in house movement, looks great, and then there’s that Genta thing. At $11,700 the price would work for me if I liked integrated bracelets but I do not. Possible exception is the Royal Oak but that’s more than twice the price and you can’t have one. LOL

[@watchmetwist]

Yea. Not sure how they came up with that retail price.

[@user-cm3wd5hk1p]

@@watchman8817 it’s the same movement as in the Mark XX though.

[@watchman8817]

@@user-cm3wd5hk1p which is an awesome new movement!!!

[@scottlinton6577]

This one hurt a lot 😞 I own an IWC, Big Pilot 43, on the bracelet, with the blue dial. I’ve had it a year and honestly, it’s brilliant. IWC does not deserve any hate, their customer service in their stores is excellent too. Rolex could learn a lot from them in that department.

[@watchman8817]

Their Concierge service has no equal and the website is very good, and seems alive and functional.

[@charlesthehammer4097]

Another watch company that actually wants to sell watches to its customers, unlike Rolex where they think they are doing you a favor. Sounds like IWC might have to be one I consider in the future

[@denew.daugherty8844]

I have the Big Pilot that I bought in Schaffhausen at the factory boutique. I am a big guy and the size is fine with me. I then bought several straps for it at the IWC boutique once I retuned to NYC. I couldn’t agree more with these comments. Amazing watches. Incredible customer service. Great company. The best, single most iconic pilot watches made.

[@scottlinton6577]

@@charlesthehammer4097 I even got a text message from the IWC salesman the other week asking how my first year with the watch has been and if I needed anything else. Really great service

[@vl507]

Got a black Ingenieur last year. It just fits my personality and wears so well. Other contenders were the Chopard Alpine Eagle and black sub. After experiencing the shitty service from Rolex I decided I would never buy from them. Also, my friend showed me his super fake, $500 black sub from HK and I couldn’t tell the difference. The Mark XX blue dial been on my mind lately 😄

[@casualsuede]

I feel this could be a series, including brands like Baume/Mercier, Rado, Eterna, Ulysses Nardin, etc....

[@Harisampath]

rado doesn’t have any problem in South Asia as they are more recognised than Rolex

[@BrittPearceWatches]

I love this idea!

[@Juanjo191]

@@BrittPearceWatchesme too! Please make it happen 🙏🏼

[@Killwolf13]

Zenith in the list

[@Bestow3000]

@@Harisampath No they are not lmao. Rolex is still the most recognizable brand and Rado pales in comparison.

[@drnick40]

Thanks Britt! I am a huge fan of IWC. Their problem is the high price they demand. Buy pre owned!

[@BrittPearceWatches]

I think that’s definitely the way forward!!

[@pennfootball71]

mistake? It is their most popular watch and hardest to get

[@lancegordon4049]

I have an IWC Portuguese as my dress watch and I love it .

[@tonyr669]

I was a part of corporate America for about three decades. I eventually started my own consulting for management and technology and best practices. In this endeavor I dealt with many senior executives of Fortune 500 corporations. And I noticed that higher up the ladder the more likely the watch would be an IWC. It was almost part of the uniform. The big three would be considered ostentatious to wear at Headquarters, while the IWC with its leather strap, and efficient dial and movement seemed to appeal to, and match these execs’ personality. The were no Submariners, or Daytonas, and the most common complication seemed to be (albeit not prevalent) a small seconds window.. it was almost like a secret club.

[@eyeheartsushi2212]

Interesting

[@marcusrawlinson5024]

That's the start of something.

[@bluemystic7501]

That's pretty insightful as I've always felt that luxury brands are aimed to appeal more to the common man versus truly affluent people. Take Rolex for example; aside from the Apple watch, it's THE most common watch brand I see on people's wrists. Think about that. Should it be THAT common if it's meant to convey status, exclusivity, and success?

[@jager6863]

Rolex is for the middle class, whom want to be upper class, just like all the labeled fashion brands, not worn by the elites and the very wealthy.

[@martenmoore3429]

I agree. IWC stands for understatement with through the whole range outstanding movements. I always felt that it gets attention from people who truly appreciate watches. Whereas a mass produced Rolex draws the attention as a status symbol.

[@henryzwartz5171]

Hi Brit, I’ve worked with IWC before. Great brand. They have been great innovators, I feel that is probably the heart of what has been missing in their marketing. Rolex built a legend around their products (sometimes based on falsehoods, as has been written about). IWC need to stop being obsessed with large watches. It’s going to hurt them in the long run of they keep that up. I reckon it will shift soon, and we’re already seeing it. I agree on your points, I’ve written about many of these issues on Fratello. Well done.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

I think you’re spot on here!!! And it’s so great hearing from Someone who has worked with them before! 😱 I agree completely! Great brand - but could use some better marketing. Especially because… THEY ARE A GREAT BRAND!

[@SillytanN]

not sure why u think they are obsessed with large watches while they always have 40-42mm in all of their collections even for some chronographs.

[@derosa1989]

@@SillytanN because they all wear large. The Portugieser is nearly all dial, and the 42mm case is 13mm think, with slab sides. The only watch that fit me at all is the Mark XX, mostly because it's still a casual look, so the fact it's still quite big on me is ok. But something more elegant or dessy, all their watches are way too big, except for the Ingenieur, which has some bezel width to reduce the face of the dial. But it's way overpriced.

[@borassictime918]

Great innovators??? 🤔 How so? Selling watches to the Nazis? Not very in-house in-house movements? Hitherto undreamed of profiteering pricing levels? If the luxury watch world (not just IWC) is going to become entirely dependent on ‘story telling’ (ie spin) to justify its price points to sell watches, it’s on very shaky ground. Sooner or later enough buyers will realise that the emperor is not wearing any clothes resulting in serious pain for many manufacturers.

[@henryzwartz5171]

@@SillytanN Their iconic tool watches were in the 36-38mm territory (except for the B-Uhr). That’s neglected territory for IWC right now.

[@ppuigmtube]

I've been an IWC enthusiast for a long time. My father owned an IWC, and I always admired their simple, manly designs and straightforward advertising. I own two myself-a Pilot Chrono from 2000 and an Aquatimer Titanium from 2005. However, something changed in the mid-2000s. Suddenly, there were too many versions, special editions, and drastic new designs (especially the Aquatimer). Prices skyrocketed, and it felt like IWC was losing its core identity. John Mayer's open letter on Hodinkee really hit home, highlighting many of these issues. While IWC might be successful with their new strategy, I don't consider them anymore because they've lost their identity, in my opinion. Unfortunately, the same shift has happened with other brands too (Breitling?). Back then, IWC was a great alternative to Rolex or Omega, but that seems to have changed. This is just my take.

[@paulschwartz2503]

I recently purchased the 41 pilot chronograph. I absolutely love it. Very wearable and versatile with the quick change strap system. Definitely a “ if you know, you know “ brand.

[@Mac_F87]

Exactly why I bought the Pilot Chronograph. Did want a Rolex GMT or Sub, but in this day and age most who don't know about watches would just think it is a fake. Then if someone is into watches they know about IWC.

[@charlesthehammer4097]

Another great video. Just started following your channel about three months ago and love your content. I think you hit it on the head with IWC.

[@micheledante2624]

Hi Britt, huge fan from Italy here! IMHO the real problem of IWC is... Richemont Group. As with Panerai, they're making disaster with their "commercial" brands (and some mistake with high end like VC). They're trying to sell more watches focusing on cost cutting - as well as other wathc group, it's normal - but most of their marketing is fictious: in-house movements that aren’t really in house but also are crappy, poor finishing and low quality at no sense price, and more. Market positioning is wrong: anytime I consider to buy an IWC, a PAM or a Cartier I easily find reasons to move away to other brands with very few regrets. JLC is nowhere in buyers radar (Reverso excluded), a huge waste of history. Hope Lange will survive. Fun fact: Baume et Mercier quality is in line with basic IWC and PAM model at a fraction of their price but still far from brands in the same price range (Tudor) or lower (Longines).

[@Countries_Watches]

absolutely accurate! E.g. +10k for the Ingenieur can' be serious.

[@BobLorrimer]

I saw a blue Pilot XX IWC featured in a recent Australian detective series and I became obsessed with freezing the screen to the detriment of the storyline. Excellent outro clip.

[@coffeeboyclips1973]

I sold my Rolex op, omega seamaster and Tudor bb58 after I got my iwc mark 18, Iwc is the number one watch company for me.

[@professor_steelbottom]

I have a Mark XX on bracelet, it fit perfectly in the store and I just love it. I would be hard pressed to spend the same amount of money on another watch because I don't think I could like anything better. It is so good looking, micro-adjustment on the clasp, and 120 hr power reserve.

[@rip93ford]

Just picked up a mark xx a couple days ago, nothing but good things to say about it so far. Love it

[@enth1980]

I sold Rolex Milgauss and had to add cash on top to get the iwc ingenieur aqua. Yes Im totally odd man out, but I so love this Iwc ingenieur, fantastic on the wrist and incredible colour. Yes it does share the same movement as cheaper models. Superb dimensions, sits even better than my gmt rootbeer, and yes, people find it overpriced, which means less people got one, fine by me👍 Really recommend trying an Ingenieur on the wrist, way better than looking at internet pictures.

[@edkwok422]

I got the IWC ingenieur aqua too. My opinion is that people will not know the beauty and elegant of this watch until he/she wear it on the wrist.

[@awaysooner]

Wish they have blue dial. Black/white is boring, and I just don't like green watches.

[@riccardosoliani]

Hi Britt, just wanted to let you know we'll be sending you some watches soon! 😊 Greetings From Schaffhausen!

[@leung9401]

Oh, can you send me one too, while you're at it? ;-D

[@wristopia4101]

And you tell her in the comments?! Very professional lol.

[@OneZero73]

@@wristopia4101 I'm guessing that comment was for our benefit. IWC wants us to know that they saw the video and appreciated Britt's coverage of their brand. And we now also know to look our for more videos about them.

[@wristopia4101]

@@OneZero73 Just seemed very very unprofessional to me, but everyone can make their own minds up. The kind of thing a micro brand would do IMO.

[@SergioDuFont]

You nailed this! Touched on every concern I’ve had with them.

[@tab3Gator]

Another banger Gringa. Excellent analysis. Shouts to Papi

[@complicatedtime]

I’ve been a collector of IWCs for the last 24 years and the IWC brand still makes up the largest part of my collection. Yes. You’re perceptions are correct. Their golden age of products was 1995-2005. They put out some incredible products - they had a clearer brand image and story. Georges Kern was good in expanding on Gunther Blumlein’s legacy with selling stories and lifestyle. It’s now a little “cloudy”…I do love the new Inge - but yet to buy one because it’s 25% over-priced

[@BarryDalton]

$5k is still crazy expensive for a pilot’s watch vis-a-vis Hamilton, Laco or Stova

[@erikknudsen2971]

Exactly!

[@curatortan4118]

I have Hamilton, Lacos, and IWCs. IWC is in a different league....

[@DaemonViews]

@@curatortan4118but they obviously should be since they cost 10 times more. And it's not for me.

[@Youy0u3010]

One is crazy to compare Laco or Stowa to IWC 😂 different league. Fit, finish, bracelet, movement and heritage ………..no contest absolutely none.

[@manofthehour_]

IWCs punch in a much higher weight class than those other brands. The only thing they have in common is that they are pilot style watches.

[@TheDigitalcrack]

I actually love the fact that people don't talk about them as much as overtalking the same generic brands. I can walk down the street and see 17 rolex watches everywhere. When you see IWC it's because something is special happening here.

[@paulbrown2422]

Very well done, Britt. Excellent way to branch out to different brands!

[@meandertaker]

Some brands give you the feels (whether they stir positive or negative emotions). I like IWC because they’re ‘boring’, and boring watches mostly stand the test of time, but if someone wasn’t into that kind of design language it comes across as just cold. IWC leaves most people cold.

[@moneymikz]

Their problem is it’s very hard to tell a $500 pilot watch from a $10,000 one

[@marcusrawlinson5024]

It's true, most people don't appreciate or understand quality.

[@bertholdbach4959]

True, i can take a look at IWC or, Stowa, Laco, every other Brand that has Fliegers and can decide if I really want to spend 6-10x the money on a IWC.

[@Jokerz32]

Brit, great video, I like the way you respectfully went over the subjects, and how you presented your opinion, a lot of us would agree that IWC problems could be the perception about their pricing, even though they have an outstanding customer service, that probably a lot of other luxury companies should learn from them. Perhaps that’s what makes the price difference.

[@nige2828]

You are amazing, love your reviews 😊

[@ivanharlokin]

"I'd like a watch with the same design and history as a Stowa or Laco, but I'd like to pay twenty times as much, please"...

[@ams914]

They're much nicer. You pay a premium to get "much nicer."

[@dantimber]

@@ams914 Yeah IWC is much higher quality. I'd like to buy an IWC 36mm sports watch without a calendar. If you're reading these comments IWC please make more smaller watches and please delete the calendars!

[@neil222222]

Thats like saying a Patek Calatrava is like a Seiko Presage because they are both dress watches

[@oxxoearth]

Simply buy Stowa or Laco

[@sharpe8888]

​@@ams914Business class is nicer than economy, but it's not 20 times nicer and it's not priced that way...

[@oxxoearth]

I bought 4 IWC, love them and I honestly don‘t care why others perhaps don‘t buy it. Yes, price in general for all these watches from several brands can be questioned, not only from IWC. I don‘t think there is anything wrong with their brand identity and i also find those things too overrated.

[@powderhousewood]

My wife bought me a bronze pilot chronograph for our 25th anniversary and I love it. The dark green dial and patina bronze is a great combination. I do agree the prices are making me drag my feet on a second one.

[@zachkramer1770]

I recently bought 2 IWC’s - mark XX and Lake Tahoe. I love them. Super good quality, but thing that stands out the most is their legibility. They’re not without they’re quirks though

[@davidhofer7744]

Love the Lake Tahoe Edition 😍 such an Banger!! And the Mark XX is my favorite Watch all time!! I‘m getting tired from all the rolex,tudor hype.

[@albertgoller4064]

Hi Britt, excellent job done. I own two Portugiese IWC's. I like the clear, non nonsense design and it's not prolly like almost all Rolex.

[@watchinout1897]

Bravo--you really covered the brand perfectly! I finally pulled the trigger on the pilot chrono 41...only because it's a 41!! Keep up the great work 👍

[@vl507]

Great video with very good points. For me, I decided it was “worth” the price and got a black Ingenieur last year. I tried on the Chopard Alpine Eagle, omega,Piaget Polo, Rolex (terrible snobby service) and many more but the watch just fits on my wrist so well and matches my personality/style. I know it’s the same movement as the MarkXX but I think many people who diss the price haven’t tried it on wrist or seen it in person. Next one for me might be the Omega Speedmaster professional in white 👌

[@MichaelMitchell-vk9lk]

I like their smaller vintage watches,thanks for the video Britt you’re killing it

[@weiniesail]

As a pilot I wanted a top gun forever. But everytime I try it on in the store the thickness makes it unbearable.

[@ams914]

What's the thickness? 14?

[@dukes70]

@@ams914 44.5, 15.7

[@dukes70]

@@ams914 44.5, 15.7; 41.9, 15.5 . The smaller will feel that thickness more.

[@DonAl9114]

IWC is an amazing brand. Myself I bought a number of different models over the last 30 years. Whenever I sold a watch again, I was shocked about the low price level. I kept one pilots chronograph that I will always keep and pass on to the next generation. You are right , the brand doesn’t use their heritage to much in order to promote their turnover. 😊😊😊🇩🇪

[@joejly]

You are spot on with your arguments. They also have been improving their marketing for the last number of years and it appears to be working... I hear more around my circles of people considering an IWC as a second or third watch for a collection over the likes of Breitling, Panerai, and even Omega. It may very well be only anecdotal evidence but Grand Seiko and IWC appear to be more on the minds of people than say 7-8 years ago.

[@mrfreemin4321]

Pretty bang on with this take, the ingenieur was the big opportunity they missed with the pricing

[@erikknudsen2971]

For fliegers in particular, I have a hard time grasping spending thousands on a type A or B watch when so many other companies make the same basic design at a fraction of the price (see Laco).

[@melondoc]

Came here to say the same thing - I was excited about the $9000 IWC Big Pilot but not justifiable when Laco sells you a similar looking flieger with similar heritage for $1500. I understand the difference in finishing and movement, but I'm not sure it's worth $7500 extra to me.

[@gabillionaire]

can’t really compare though, Laco is sooo thick

[@jraohana537]

Stowa too...

[@_msc-ds9sj]

These are very different - the big pilot runs one week …

[@_msc-ds9sj]

I like the big sizes …. It looks very much like a tool watch should look like

[@watcheswithabdullah]

Hey Britt! I think aviation-themed watches are always a tougher sell, when compared to land or sea-themed watches. More people explore and swim than fly, which makes water resistance more relevant than a big-crown. Look at Breitling, Bell & Ross, Laco or even Bremont (at least the previous generation). While they all make excellent watches, they attract a niche group of collectors. Another thing is that divers, chronos and field watches have appeared in movies, that have added a 'cool' factor associated with them. Aviation watches are still largely behind on that front, which makes them even lesser appealing to the mainstream collectors. Fun video as always!

[@astrostl]

I think you nailed it here too. Also agree on interest in the old name/logo style. I kinda like the Black Aces full lume, but not 7k USD like - at half the price it would be a snap buy.

[@BrettinLux]

I have a 2010 IWC Pilot Chronograph in 42mm and absolutely love it.Yes,it does feel bigger than it looks.It is just so comfortable.

[@charles_the_elder]

I watch a lot of (American) Football during the season and I always notice the watches the announcers wear. Troy Aikman, the Hall of Fame quarterback, always wears an IWC Big Pilot. It really stands out when all the other announcers are wearing shiny gold and jeweled watches. It looks great.

[@fredstahl2823]

Troy keeps himself in amazing shape. While not the biggest NFL player by a mile his hand and wrist size (as all NFL Quarterbacks) are giant. He can pull off a Big Pilot with ease: as could Sly when he was in full juice form in his younger years

[@michaellarsen8809]

I love my IWC Big Pilot Le Petit Prince❤ Its big, but an icon.

[@edkwok422]

Totally agreed

[@jorgecarrasco4206]

Awesome video!

[@BobLorrimer]

Oh, and another thing: sublime audio visual editing!

[@atosco87]

Also a problem is the thickness. Like omega, they need to shave it

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Agree completely!!

[@dannym5468]

They need to shave it 20% and that still wouldn't be in the territory as elite watches (don't expect them to be, just standard thickness is ok). Right now it's just like a new watchmaker that doesn't know how to do it like a swatch, Tissot

[@MrMarcob73]

I do have also IWC piliot chrono in my collection! They are beautiful watch, i get a lots of compliments about it. If people are so boring to stick buying a rolex submariner or a such a plane boring tudor with average moviments is their problem. IWC worth the money, they are even cheaper for the offers they have. A watch lover must have a IWC in collection.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Ouuu I love this!! The one I am the most tempted by is a 39mm spit fire! I think they’re so cool!

[@chrisgaunt7402]

Great analysis... I totally agree with you about IWC 👌👍

[@sharpe8888]

Wait, so that's how you pronounce JLC ? 😅

[@E..M..]

The problem with IWC is that the Richemont Group has lost its mind in its pursuit of satisfying its shareholders more than it cares about its customers. After you’ve seen IWC’s prices, have you seen their “in-house” movements? Prime example, the Ingenieur you mentioned. It’s a pretty standard mass produced stainless steel case with movement made by Val Fleurier (also owned by Richemont). And you can have it for… £10,500… Or, you can have on of it’s brothers, the Baume & Mercier Baumatic for a third of the price. Their other “in-house” movements are based on expired ETA patents. Yeah, IWC should be in noone’s radar and no watch ‘nerd’ should be supporting their ridiculousness.

[@sobewisdom]

Watch "Enthusiasts" can talk about mechanical prowess, looks, etc...all they want. But essentially it comes down to Branding. ROLEX is a solid watch, but not anywhere near the best horologically.

[@nickyarka6929]

If JLC is "Watchmaker's Watchmaker", IWC is, unfortunately "The Luftwaffe's Watchmaker". I think that's the primary reason IWC tends to avoid talking about heritage in an industry where it's more and more the norm.

[@gabigolz]

Yes. And it’s why I won’t buy their watches even though they then produced for the good guys too

[@sgassocsg]

@@gabigolz hypocrite you are? do you also refuse other German brands? Miele, Lang and son? funny that. How long will you punish the German people? Do you refuse Japanese brands too? Mitsubishi and a host of others? How far back do you go when punishing entire ethnic groups?

[@jrapp1468]

@@gabigolzLol are you jewish or something 😂

[@JonnyS300]

My IWC problem is that for the money, there seems to always just be something else I’d rather have first. For example, last year I could have bought one, but I went and bought my Seamaster instead, and currently the next watch goal I’m working towards is a Santos de Cartier… if I could have bought an IWC pilot without it getting in the way of those, 100% I’d already have one. But in that price range, an IWC Pilot is probably only 3rd or 4th place on my wish list.

[@manoftomorrow5987]

I agree. I’m working my way up to that seamaster this year as well and the next move is the Cartier. IWC isn’t even in my radar at the moment…too many better options

[@timothykuo4703]

I just bought a perpetual calendar portofino. Stunning watch, love it

[@silkar3028]

IWC is a watch for pilot. No matters if you’re flying an Airbus, or if you crashed your Boeing, the chunky arrow on 12 would tell you where the sky should be.

[@serenityinside1]

Crashed your Boeing ..😆- orbit crashed itself more like 🙄😯

[@niosanfrancisco]

Huge BP fan. (Have 3).

[@LBenn302]

The IWC problem is that… for the same price.. I can get two omegas, or two tudors. It just makes no sense to me to buy IWC.

[@JDinHNL]

OMG! You just hit the mark - I’ve been wanting a new IWC, and wondered why I haven’t jumped. You can actually get THREE Tudor watches (or two for the latest), or two Omega watches for the cost of one IWC, and you’ll have a better watch.

[@LBenn302]

@@JDinHNL yup. Can get a Rolex explorer instead and so much more. IWC is for when you already have an established collection IMO.

[@ams914]

You're doing it wrong.

[@dantimber]

@@ams914 ?

[@LBenn302]

@@ams914 everyone has their preferences. Price has a lot to do with high end watch collecting brother, there’s no way around it. Some people have hundreds of Casios, some seikos, some Rolex. It’s all relative

[@clarencebenjaminlim]

The IWC prices blew me away.

[@ztunelover]

IWC servicing costs terrify me.

[@anjovicsy]

May i ask what watch you had serviced and how much? I'm curious lol.

[@sujpuj]

How much bro?

[@ztunelover]

@@anjovicsy im fairly new to this hobby so far none are in the window, but I know my black bay gmt will be around $500 cad for its first service in 5 years. Coworkers dad has an IWC and I think it’s in the 4 figures per service.

[@philipgabriel8897]

​@@anjovicsy I accidentally broke my iwc watch (water damage via my crown, movement stopped cause rust problems inside) ruined the dial and all. Had it fixed here in manila 🇵🇭 via the iwc service center. They charged me around 60,000 PHP = 1022 USD. Complete overhaul , they had to send it overseas and took around 4 months. The watch I completely screwed btw was the mark xviii. I was told if I had any of the iwc watches that had the inhouse movements, that I'd end up paying double more or less. Ps: general watch servicing for my iwc would be around 25000 PHP = 420ish to 450 USD. Prices vary depending on the complication and movement

[@sharpe8888]

I seem to recall a friend of mine paid $2000 to service his big pilot!

[@trailerparkboysbestshow3327]

The richmount group are making a ton of money - just because the 10 people on youtube including yourself doesnt buy IWC, doesnt mean the rest of the world doesnt.

[@Paka1983]

To me the best watch brand: great looking watches, robust movements and ABSOLUTELY PERFECT customer service and how they provide the service (they fetch the watch from your home and bring it back to your home after service). Also it's pretty funny that I don't know any douchebag that wears IWC.

[@dantimber]

Still many are too big.

[@denniskai2331]

They really should buy IWC XX. I own the green one. They are the most elegantly masculine legible watch you can buy. On top of that they are truly incredible strap monsters. With the new strap change system - it's the easiest swap out process - you can go from IWC straps/bracelets, to natos, to regular straps almost instantly. I have one other IWC and I've got my eye on a 2nd XX. It's the closest I've ever come to a true GADA watch. IWC - if you're listening ... Give us some more pilot's watch color/material variations in the 40-39mm range :)

[@arcade15x]

Loved my Mark XX, but wish it was smaller, wish the numerals were lumed, and the minute hand jumping when trying to set the watch (when fully wound) was unacceptable.

[@denniskai2331]

@@arcade15x I haven't experienced that problem so far. I bought directly from IWC through their concierge service -- they were incredibly helpful and responsive. I'm having so much fun with my XX ... it's been pretty much daily for over six months. I've got a 7" flat wrist and it wears pretty well. However, I do understand the size complaint. Especially bc they're "all dial". I can't go larger than 40 with the all dial watches. However, the legibility is just so incredible -- it's a joy. My only gripe is that they don't have anything like COSC/METAS and they don't advertise the accuracy of their watches. For the price, you feel like you should be getting at least COSC. I've since learned that they're striving for 0 to +7 seconds a day.

[@CujoInLV]

Just my .02. . . The counter-balance on the seconds hand is way too big. It’s half the size of the hour hand. The mark XII and XV seconds hands were perfect.

[@eljayr4669]

I have always wanted an IWC but I had a lot of bad luck. The spec of the Mk XIII on bracelet was perfect for me so I bought it, the watch gained 16 minutes over night. I took it back and the shop gave me a very good deal on the Mk XX. I absolutely loved it but it gained 11 seconds a day. I took that back as well and got my money back. I loved the design of the watch but, for me, IWC was a big disappointment. I would have accepted 4 or 5 seconds a day and would have been pleased to have had it for my daily. My Rolex, Tudor and Omega Seamaster are all 1 to 2 seconds a day.

[@kaakie1]

I bought the Mark XX 6 months ago and send it back two times because it is running 11 till 15 seconds too fast a day. They cannot fix it. I am very disappointed about that. If you don’t are too keen on The accuracy it is a great watch and soooo beautiful!!

[@richarddunstan9247]

The XX style is the only favourite I have never owned due to this accuracy risk. I don’t fancy buying it to return for the AD to say it will be 3 months. Gaining 2 minutes a week is just a no go. For the cash we need some accuracy.

[@freddyt55555]

These stories sound like nonsense. The Mark XX has an in-house movement with an ETACHRON regulator and a microadjustment screw. It would take all of 5 minutes to get the rate from +/- 10 s/day down to +/- 4 s/day or better.

[@eljayr4669]

@@freddyt55555 you are probably right but I was so disillusioned I just wanted my money back.

[@waltonr5630]

And there are $400,00 Seiko models that shows -2/+4 s, within COSC limits. So, it is not only disappointing but also frustating...

[@bestboy897]

Its just too expensive for what it is

[@Seconds84]

Large watches, Thick cases, in-house movements that aren’t really in house, pricing issues compared to quality received and more. How bout a dial with some dimensions and applied markers at a reasonable price. Have to go near 10k to get that. The icing on the cake was that beautiful Ingenieur they created, with a crappy movement and a price that was laughable. They’re their own worst enemy, they don’t know their own place in the market. They also have not refined their watches enough. Similar issue with Grand Seiko, thick cases, horrible bracelets and the Seiko name on watch (synonymous with inexpensive watches). Adding the word grand doesn’t help.

[@scottlinton6577]

You really woke up on the wrong side of the bed this morning

[@Seconds84]

@@scottlinton6577 just throwing my honest opinion out there is all. I would be a buyer of IWC if not for those issues I outlined. They just need to rethink their approach, especially pricing. I love the new Ingenieur as I mentioned, but it’s overpriced and under powered (mechanically) with that cheap “in-house” movement.

[@scottlinton6577]

@@Seconds84 i agree with you on the Ingenieur pricing some of the movements they have are in house though, it’s one of the reasons I got the Big Pilot 43. They also do clever bevelling on the edges of the case to make it “appear” thinner. I think they are great but Britt is right regarding their identity and range of options.

[@flop7217]

+ very expensive service.

[@charlymagne]

I love the fact that IWC is not know to the masses. I can go into the shop and walk away with a great deal. It always exude class. It reminds me of Loro Piana. If you know, you know. I highly recommend you see them in person, the pics don’t do it justice. They have incredible pieces that are always available. I have a baby Pilot 36mm which is incredible and purchased instead of a Rolex Explorer 36. I can wear it with anything, even as a dress watch. I also have the 41 Chronograph, which has an incredible wrist presence and it often outwears my submariner. The Portugieser is an awesome dress watch. The 40mm is one my favorite when I need to dress up. I love Rolex, but IWC is special.

[@poloman888]

Out in the wild, when I see a Rolex or Omega on someone's wrist, I recognize, but it just registers blankly. But when I see a JLC, IWC, trinity, etc., I tend to pause and look at the wearer.

[@JimLecinski]

IWC neo vintage is the way to go Gringa, fixes all three of your problems. Mark XV is 38mm, reasonably affordable and is direct lineage to 1940s military pieces they supplied. Since that era yeah too big (or too small 36mm) and too $$$$.

[@monnierphilippe0]

Tha Mark XV had a much nicer warchface and hands, no inhouse movment, but who cares, quite reliable at a much affordable price. It is algo a watch that dos not scream mug me

[@petesjk]

IWC has an 36mm pilot watch that isn’t considered part of the Mark line, but I wish it had different hands. I would prefer something like the cathedral hands of IWC’s original pilot watch from 1936. Also, its price isn’t much different from the Mark or Spitfire.

[@JimLecinski]

@@petesjk yeah and it wears small. for cathedral hands, you'll need to find one of the "Battle of Britain" limited editions (no date!) from 2002-04. They fetch a high price but IMO this is my favorite of all the IWC pilots.

[@petesjk]

@@JimLecinski I’m part of Brit’s IBWC, so wearing small isn’t an issue for me. As long as I can read it easily, I’m fine with low profile.

[@RichMitch]

Dying for a white dial pilot and blue portofino

[@edwintreffers]

When I think of a buying a pilot watch I think of a Breitling Navitimer and not an IWC. And I like a name on the dial and not an abbreviation 🤪 Cheers Britt, really nice video 🥳

[@davidgant6720]

So you would really want international watch company printed on the dial? Seems a bit much.

[@BrittPearceWatches]

YOU KNOOOOW EDWIN! I’ve been thinking of you! BECAUSE I CANT STOP THINKING ABOUT THE NAVI!!! I really think I’m going to end up buying one in the next couple years!

[@zhan9207]

Size and price

[@NA-yz2ek]

A watch does not measure time; a watch measures itself. "The objective reference of a clock is another clock."

[@BrittPearceWatches]

🤣🤣🤣

[@andreasp.2619]

Almost no complication models are often over 5k.... Ahm.. no thanks. I'll stay with Nomos 😋

[@BrittPearceWatches]

NOMOS IS NEVER A BAD CHOICE! 😍😍

[@maxinahunt8652]

I’d rather have a nice Laco.

[@ajhl1]

For me it's simple....NO options for smaller wrists!!

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Gah! I know! There’s a Mark XX that is 36mm and Spitfire is 39mm. But yeah… it’s mostly for larger wrists! 🙈💕

[@raghdahasan4941]

They have 34mm and 37mm portifinos in their lineup

[@ajhl1]

@@raghdahasan4941 Exactly!! Not much choice, no 36?? They think people still wear watches OVER the jacket sleeves!!!

[@tuliosouza8973]

Absolutely true for the pilot watches. Even at 39, a "all dial" pilots watch will look big on small wrist

[@MrPleers]

Agreed. Some watch brands seem to made specifically for Popeye. While my wrist is closer to that of the Pink Panther. 😞

[@marcgirard7551]

The problem is almost entirely PRICE vs. value. IWC needs to cut their prices about 50% across the board. I hate to say it, but its the cold hard truth. The Mark XX is lovely, but it should compete with the Tudor BB and Omega Seamaster, maybe sitting right between them pricewise. They are way overreaching and trying to make customers pay for their marketing. The Ingenieur wouldn't stay in stock if they sold it for what it's worth ... about half of the MSRP they listed it at. Price, price, price. Great watches, great brand that is way overestimating the prices of their watches vs. the value they provide.

[@flop7217]

Doesn't the mark XX sit in between the mentioned prizes?

[@Paka1983]

4:30 IWC Big Pilot vs. Rolex GMT Master II I understand easily that the Big Pilot is more expensive. That IWC movement with 168 hours power reserve sweeps the floor with that GMT. It also look WAY cooler that the gmt master.

[@watchpapi]

Hmmmm…. Hard disagree.

[@danielpaulson3631]

The IWC problem is the price. The reference point is Stowa or Laco, and not Rolex.

[@lihanou]

All richemont watches are a scam, including jlc and VC, overpriced af

[@jaybee1196]

Enjoyed this one

[@lyd9828]

I have a Portugiser Chrono, purchased as a birthday present for myself. I didn't know what watch I was going to purchase initially. I tried a number of watches on from various brands, from Cartier, Zenith, Rolex, JLC etc, I then looked at IWC with the same preconceptions you raised. But when I got to handle the watches, I was really impressed and they did not wear as big as I initially thought. If you wear a tudor black bay 41mm, then a portugiser would likely fit better as it sits lower on the wrist. I went for the portugiser chrono becasue I looks so classic and elegant, especially when paired with the fitted rubber strap. Though was very tempted by the perpetual calendar watches (particularly the portofino perpetual). Plus, there is the added benefit that you don't see this watch on every other persons wrist.

[@jonathanhobman7880]

Typo. ‘Case dimen(s)ions..’ on the title page. Fascinating video 🙏🏻!

[@freddyt55555]

The production quality of her videos is top-notch, so it was quite jarring to see that typo.

[@keirtomasso9664]

I love this brand! It was one of my first watches because of my appreciation for their partnership with Mercedes for all these years. I have about a half dozen IWC now and I have had the good fortune of meeting the CEO, President and NA Sales Manager, as well as have formed a great relationship with the manager and a sales rep in the Miami store! The watches are amazing, the company is a joy to do business with, and I love that when I send an email to the President he actually emails me back!!! Al because we met May of 2023 and he liked that I was wearing my limited edition Nico watch. Folks buy these watches. I just got the ceratainimum patronas AMG racing chrono and the black dial is amazing!!! The big pilot blue dial chrono with their movement (the smaller dial reference) is one of my favs and it wasn’t expensive!! Folks, buy these watches.

[@samnova450]

Thanks Britt for giving myself more insight on the IWC. Being one of those guys that don’t have an Omega yet, think I would get the Omega first because of its price Vs the IWC. I do like the look of the Portuguese model.

[@blaineadams9986]

I have a few IWC watches and love them. I would agree that the old logo especially on dress watches would be perfect! I purchased both of my sons IWC Mark 18 watches when they turned 30.

[@wescobts]

As always another great video. IWC is a amazing watch company. I do not own one, but would love to. The Mark XX strikes the bell for me. They are really expensive, and quite honestly they could do a better job on lume. You can get a Laco with the upgraded movement, saphire and anti reflective coatings on both sides with engraving for about $1500.00.

[@roycedot]

That Aqua timer looks nice!

[@molassescricket6663]

lol! Watch collecting DEFINITELY makes you crazy about what’s expensive and what’s not. You said a mouthful there!

[@MrBerry67]

Love my IWC PORTUGIESER- very happy that I rarely bump into anyone with the same watch

[@walkerb1734]

Great video, Britt!

[@BrittPearceWatches]

Ahhh thank you! I really enjoyed making this one!

[@geraldi3765]

You covered IWC's challenges properly. I own and love the the Aquatic Jacques Cousteau.

[@James-pl2oy]

You can never go wrong with a Pilot Mark Series. Yes, there have been models that were less than stellar but their current XX is spot on

[@robertsullivan4773]

You hit this vid out of the park. I've wanted an iwc for awhile. But its their perpetual 42 which I would die for is 24k usd in steel and it's a big 42.

[@notenoughtime7274]

Great video. Smart analysis and original content The problem with IWC is they are a great value prop used not new.

[@malikknows3510]

Many good comments here, thanks. I've owned a IWC mechaquartz for decades and it is dear to me. You use the word tactical with some of these pilot watches yet with relatively little water resistance it's hard to see a tactical connection. For this money, 10ATM should be the minimum. Cheers.

[@julx1972]

As the proud owner of two big IWCs, I have to admit all your points, but still love them! 😂😂😂

[@pedromiguelareias]

Was almost buying an IWC Pilot 41 but decided for an RX Explorer II. Waiting time one year ago was 2 months. Do not regret it. A lot of used IWC sell for a small fraction of MSRP.

[@EdwardViaTomato]

I have an Aquatimer 2000 and it's pretty fantastic. I wear it when rain is forecasted as a sort of watch-lovers-joke. I bought it as a "(nice) beater" after I bought my Zenith chronograph, and I've only grown to like it even more since receiving it. I think the Pilot has one of the nicest non-integrated bracelets around, and the Yacht-Club is one of my favorite watches. I also kinda regret not buying the previous gen Ingenieur, since some of those were available rather affordably for a minute.