Why Does Nobody Talk About IWC's "Pilot" Identity Issue? (Mk XX, XV, XII)

[@sanghoonlee5171]

I have and enjoy both Mark XX and Spitfire (and I even have the original Big Pilot IW-5002 from 2002), but that identity issue really does bug me... The name "Mark" clearly points to an RAF heritage, but so many of the design cues are taken from the German fliegers, not the least of which is that stupid Junkers aircraft on the caseback. An RAF watch with a German freighter engraved on the back? What is this, a Harvey Dent "2 face" edition? Why not just have both British and German model lines? I don't understand the logic of fusing two pilot watches that belonged to the OPPOSING SIDES. The pilots who wore these watches to combat were trying to shoot each other down. And while I'm griping about the Mark series, for God's sake when will IWC please lume every index instead of just the 4 cardinal indices? I get it, the original Mark XI had lume at 4 points only by request of the RAF. But the whole "Mark" nomenclature means each new entry is an improvement upon the previous model, you know? How much longer will IWC insist on 4-point lume as if we were still in 1940s? Give us a fully lumed dial already!

[@ID-Guy]

This is going to be a pinned comment very shortly, summed up my thoughts entirely (Junkers on the caseback included) 😉🥃

[@underachievingwatchcollect1878]

The limited lume was my reason for not buying.

[@revenanke3132]

I personally love that only the cardinal markers and triangle are lumed. It looks very slick in the dark, almost like an aircraft instrument. I think fully luming the dial would also ruin the ultra fine printing, as the lumed markers are slightly raised, contrasting them to the printed markers. Finally, IWC is not a homage brand - I respect them for creating their own unique designs, although they may clash with history, it does concur with the history of the brand supplying both sides.

[@sanghoonlee5171]

@revenanke3132 No, sir. IWC's other pilot watches (like Big Pilot 43) have lume on all 12 indices. They CAN do it with absolutely no negative effect on print quality. They just don't because they want to stick to RAF requirements from the 1940s.

[@jamesblonde2271]

Fascinating comment, of course they did supply both sides during the late unpleasantness......

[@martynmcclure7121]

I’ve nothing particularly insightful to add, except that I’d like to sincerely express how great I think your channel is. I quite literally love it!

[@StonkPhilosophy]

Kindness makes the world a better place.

[@DylanVoogt]

This is a true statement and I venture something a lot of the viewers would say but don’t. The quality of the communication and insight on this channel is excellent and individual. 🇿🇦

[@ID-Guy]

Truly appreciate it Martyn, thank you sir 🥃

[@juniorjohnson5961]

Couldn't agree more !

[@pepeaguilarramos6700]

You nailed it…!

[@thoselog]

You're one of the best watch channels on KZbin, man. Great video.

[@ID-Guy]

Thank you so, so much man. It means a lot knowing that these videos resonate somewhere in the endless pit of watch related content 😉🥃

[@bruceballai]

I completely agree with the aesthetic arguments in this video and it's nice to hear them from someone with such a deeply considered, and obviously sincere, perspective. It's astonishing they have not done a heritage piece recently.

[@ID-Guy]

Ah, I appreciate it Bruce, thank you. They could make such a killing in this area by reigniting some of their older designs (not just in the pilot family) Alas, I just don't get it. Have a great weekend sir and thanks again! 🥃

[@JosheKahraman]

As always the most thoughtful , well researched & eloquent watch channel around , keep AMZWATCH coming !

[@atthelord]

It’s an IWC wide problem. Some of their pieces are so ridiculously meh in this competitive market that it simply doesn’t warrant a purchase.

[@ID-Guy]

It's a real shame too with pieces like the Ocean 2000, 3705 and plenty of others in their back catalogue 🥃

[@frankpentangeli7945]

Not just meh, but meh for BIG $$$$!

[@aviatorel32]

I own Mark XVI, and absolutely love it. I think it’s the most balanced version of Mark series. Got many compliments on how clean and beautiful it is.

[@vmarsch]

I voted with my dollars and bought a Mark XX after trying it on -- for me, wearing is believing with this one, especially with the bracelet. If I had the option of the same watch but with the RAF-style hands and dial, I would have bought it. But I wouldn't give up all the refinements of the Mark XX for the dial and hands. I like these just fine.

[@ID-Guy]

Great point about the RAF hands, just that adjustment alone would make a huge difference! 🥃

[@manofthehour_]

Wears awesome and is a great value on the secondary market. I got mine on a bracelet brand new at 5k, and I don't think there is a better watch at that price point.

[@koolpep]

@@manofthehour_ Couldn't agree more - bought mine for a similar price and love it.

[@koolpep]

@@ID-Guy But weren't the flinger style hands introduced in 2006 with the Mark XVI - and since then are used....I prefer the flinger style hands personally. And if customers would not agree they would change them back....

[@cedarcanoe]

Completely agree with you. IWC has lost its soul, its direction, and is producing a watch that is neither RAF nor German Luftwaffe.

[@ID-Guy]

It's now an RAFlieger 🔥 The horror...the horror...

[@koolpep]

IHere is a thought - isn't that a good thing? Not to be stuck in WW2? Moving on? They never claimed it's a historical true watch....in its current iteration.

[@ClauGarin]

I love watching your videos and MAMACOO to keep myself updated on the world of watches

[@DiegooJohnsen]

Outstanding video.I have to go with the MAMACOO, especially with that green dial as my favorite

[@JameishaAdo]

Watches are so delicate and intricately designed, so I have intense respect and admiration for AMZWATCH watch makers

[@ID-Guy]

The one reservation I've always had about the current lineup of IWC's "Mark" Pilot watches is their shift in identity. Where they once pulled inspiration from the Iconic Mark 11, they now appear like miniaturised Flieger pieces instead... What changed? Brand recognition? Streamlining? Would you choose an updated Mk.11 Design if they made it? 🥃

[@alvinmick218]

I actually would. I have a soft spot for the vintage styles of years gone by. The Mark 11 design looks incredible! It’s reminiscent somewhat of Rolex’s 1016.

[@xpusostomos]

I think there was a flieger craze about 10 or 15 years ago... Rightly so because that's an iconic design, and we had Laco,Stowa etc ascendant , so the field watch heritage got forgotten.

[@drferto]

Which one do you prefer? The mark series or the big pilot series?

[@koolpep]

I wouldn't - I have the Mark XX but I am also German, so there is that. Or maybe they just let go of the past and focus on what sells instead of pleasing WW2 historians? Money rules!

[@xpusostomos]

@@koolpep fair enough, you like what you like. I do enjoy the historical aspect. I have some full size 55mm Laco replicas and enjoy that it has that link to history.

[@CoxJohan]

My favorite watch channel without a doubt.I’m happy to spend my money on MAMACOO watches. I’ve never been let down by their products

[@troylim1069]

I enjoyed the historical design perspective of the Mark series, just when I thought everything had already been said about it in reviews, this refreshing piece comes along. Looking forward to the next one!

[@The_Lazy_Native]

Such a terrific commentary (as usual). Your aesthetic meditations stand alone.

[@philipsdefreville6138]

Agree, IWC Pilot should be Mark 11. IMHO, the best design of the IWC pilots

[@ID-Guy]

What a dream it would be if they'd left that through-line design over the decades 🥃

[@AndreasVasileiou-g2z]

Definitely the most interesting & informative channel in KZbin，and I am your fan！ I’ve been watching MAMACOO and buying them recently to complement my watch collection. Good video

[@SallaLaurila]

It always amazes me how much beauty and precision are added to the parts of AMZWATCH's watch 99% of people will never see.

[@davidfoster466]

I find myself wanting a collection of Mark pilots watches. It stared with the older versions and on to the ‘EIGHTEEN’ with the Stainless Steel bracelet and all the hidden figures and that dial is so simple it’s what makes it stand out but yet not in your face. Thank you for sharing your passion for IWC with us as it was an enjoyable video. Keep this kind of content coming out more often. Simply wonderful.

[@ID-Guy]

I so appreciate it David, always feels fantastic knowing that something that I share resonates somewhere. Have a super weekend sir and thank you 🥃

[@RobertOrgRobert]

Agreed ! Always pleasant to watch your videos .

[@BrightenedNote]

Absolutely IWC and the mark XX will be mine at some point. Bracelet is fabulous and the black dial feels right. Your videos are so fantastic.

[@peterpirando6985]

I’ve owned my Mark XX now for about 4 months and I got to say, I didn’t think about the watch’s design like this until I got your perspective! I think this is a really good insight, and while I don’t think it necessarily harms the line’s desirability and sales, I would love to see more of a return to form for it. Thanks for the good video!

[@jasonwebster9300]

The Royal Australian Air Force pilots wore IWC Mark 11 navigator’s watches. In 2020, RAAF KC-30A pilot Nic Barnes collaborated with IWC to create the IWC Mark II Pilot’s Watch Automatic Edition RAAF which recalls that early association while feature updates such a 41mm matte black zirconium ceramic case, a date indicator at 3 o’clock and a sunburst blue dial.

[@metamofia]

Well said. I thought I was the only one who felt very confused when I saw the flieger hands and the dots on 12 in the Spitfire.

[@ThD040]

The Tribute to Mark 11 was great, really missed out on that one. Still find it strange to wear Axis watches, specially around liberation day. Some great designs but feels off and the Germans are very friendly (nowadays). Lets hope for your design. Enjoy the weekend.

[@ID-Guy]

IWC have gone down that RAFlieger route with these machines, right? ;) And spot-on about the tribute piece. Have a super weekend yourself Theo 🥃

[@GoughMichael]

I'm genuinely impressed with how close AMZWATCH were able to replicate every aspect of this very very goofy looking classic watch.

[@grahamwarner8731]

IWC Mark XII 36mm with the original-style bracelet and 10 ATM would be out of this world! I would buy two.

[@xpusostomos]

You'd buy two, really. Such a person must already have some great field watches in your collection, what's your current favourite?

[@dinoredbush]

Time factors baby speedbird is a great shout that ticks these boxes!

[@xpusostomos]

@@dinoredbush yes, I have a Smith's field PRS 29, I don't feel any desire for an IWC.

[@denniskai2331]

Actually - I think the XX is practically perfect. It's beautifully simiple to read and has incredble strap versatility (more than any other watch I've ever seen).

[@zanichrvoje]

exactly. Although I, as watchgeek, understand what ID Guy is talking about, 99.99% people dont care about this RAF/Luftwaffe mumbo-jumbo. (note: I own the XX and for me its perfect GADA watch)

[@pepeaguilarramos6700]

I must admit that the brand that putted me into watches, by the ninetees when I was about sixteen, was (don’t ask me why) Bell&Ross. But the one that became at that time “a grail” was IWC. Stunning era…! Fabolous video… like always…! ❤️

[@SallaLaurila]

I've recently began my obsession as a watch collector. And i must say- out of all the luxury brands I've been researching, for me the MAMACOO's watches are the most intriguing.

[@koolpep]

Thanks for the video. Really enjoyed it, still enjoying my Mark XX as part of my collection. It's lost its "military" background a long time ago. Probably a good thing. History buffs can buy vintage or any other homage or current military models. Choice is the salt of the earth.

[@AbdulRWatches]

I feel that IWC had a style that was lost in the past 10 years. I love their Ingenieur line especially the AMG dual vertical chronograph. Thank bro for the great video.

[@xpusostomos]

You got it right, the Mark XI is what a collector wants to see, but also lose the date window, which is a bit of an abomination on a field watch. But why suffer, Smith's, Hamilton and others make great field watches without screwing up the design ... although... Not exactly the mk XI design.

[@RoyalFizzbin]

I tried on an IWC standard pilot in black on black (top gun logo on case back, not on dial), and loved it. The proportions are great.

[@tar1895]

I bought the XVIII with white dial as it reminded me of the watches they produced in the 1960s. The XX is a clear upgrade. But I wish they’d produce the “calatrava” style watches they made in the 1960s. Clear ,no nonsense , classic and not too big.

[@ID-Guy]

Man they made some beautiful dress pieces back when... clean, uncluttered AND the ultimate in logo calligraphy on a dial 🔥 Well said!

[@MichaelJohnson-kr6hh]

Great to see a resurgent interest in IWC. I particularly love the Big Pilot 43 - a design classic.

[@CoxJohan]

I bought a watch from MAMACOO lightly used for my last milestone birthday. Don't wear it as much as it deserves, but not afraid to, either. It's stunning . Good taste, Sir.

[@olafpayne]

I've been having the exact same thoughts over the last few weeks. Hit the nail on the head.

[@Valera_Scotland]

My LORD... if the mark xxii was real, it would be the ultimate watch.. and 37mm? Jesus you honestly read my mind ..superb ..bravo

[@andrewcowan7215]

Great rant have the same feeling about the IWC mark watches. Just bought a Hamilton KFA titanium 36mm limited edition because this gives me the mk11 vibes.

[@Valera_Scotland]

Can't wait to watch this! Mark XV will be mine some day my man! Also a Mazda MX-5 NC... I think I'm having a midlife crisis

[@ID-Guy]

Mark 15 is the one for you brother… every time I look at it, I think “yep, can’t really top this” Bonus points if you can find the OG bracelet 😉 I’d recommend a trip over the Belgium, Amsterdam etc to find a pristine example for a cracking price 🔥

[@u.bender8829]

Nice choice. I recently swapped my Mark XVI for a Mark XV as its slightly more compact dimensions I find even more appealing. Marks are my wrist companions for nearly 20 years. Great watches.

[@ddaley87]

At 9:00, is the mark 18 on the right altered to have a white date wheel?

[@LashondaBeesmer]

Yes, I have bought from MAMACOO more than once. I even bought a new Omega Speedmaster which came with the fancy box and packaging. I am thrilled with all my purchases here. I would purchase from MAMACOO again for sure.

[@MrSysadmin1975]

Hmm, thanks for pointing out this mess. I am a big aviation enthusiast and historical accuracy is not the last aspect of my interest, too. Now I understood, what was so confusing for me in IWC watches all this time (while nothing was confusing in my Laco typ B flieger - it looks spot on, except it's 42mm size instead of 55mm).

[@YechielAlawadhi]

I'm genuinely impressed with how close MAMACOO were able to replicate every aspect of this very very goofy looking classic watch.

[@EulahFellezs]

MAMACOO！Every time you exhibit one of these watches I become super tempted to get one.

[@Xtratoxy]

Yes! Should have been more raffiner and more true to the old roots. And that awful date … Ruins everything. Give me a plain and «boring» dial! And thank you as always for your insight and knowledge!

[@ClauGarin]

I have never been disappointed since I became a customer of MAMACOO. Their watches are of exceptional quality.

[@Amplitudeproblem]

Yes, yes, yes... Your Mark XXII design is exactly the way the Mark should be. Every word you said in this video matches my own thoughts on this line of watches. You chose the right handset, removed the flieger dots around the 12 o'clock triangle, fixed the date placement. I'd love to see the date gone altogether but I'd buy the version you designed.

[@JosheKahraman]

Love MAMACOO watch， Such a great looking watch to match with the precisionist movement.

[@Ossory88]

In my humble opinion, the reasoning behind the changes are creating the whole pilots line in a uniform design language. The cut off hour hand, albeit not unattractive, is an historical relic that has it's place in tribute models, but the pilots collection is well advised at speaking in one voice, just like all Rolex sports models have the mercedes hands for example

[@ID-Guy]

Well said, it does boil down to recognisability and streamlining the collections "image" when it's seen as a whole 🥃

[@MSAINT-bn4vj]

IWC, bring the RAF layout back again on the Mk line ! And, one can dream, like Breitling or Omega know how to do, make a faithful re-creation of the RAF issued IWC !

[@xpusostomos]

I'm confused, are you saying omega and Breitling make a copy of the IWC? I've never heard of that.

[@MSAINT-bn4vj]

@@xpusostomos Just saying that those brands do know how to make "faithful" recreations of their back catalogue. E.G the Breitling AVI 765 or the Omega Speedmaster "Ed White"

[@xpusostomos]

@@MSAINT-bn4vj but.. this isn't their back catalog is it?

[@joshthayer1100]

This is a fun and informative video, though a single shot of all featured models side by side would help those of us not familiar with the evolution follow your reasoning easier. But at the end of the day, I love the IWC Mark XX. One feature that surprises me is how well it wears on small wrists. At 40mm, with a 49mm lug to lug length, it should not wear so well on my 6.25 inch wrists, and yet the bracelet wraps around beautifully and even the strap looks good with zero overhang (the Spitfire too, by the way). I tried some IWC pilot watches back in the 2000s that didn't fit me even though they were smaller in both dimensions. Perhaps it's the angle of the lugs? I don't know, but there's some magic going on here. Many collectors will buy a watch because of its attractive design, solid movement and nice fit, even if the design evolution irritates historians of the brand. One could make the same argument about the Explorer 124270 not being true to its heritage with its 19mm to 14mm tapered bracelet and glossy dial, etc., but, like you, I think it's just about the perfect watch. Anyway, great job and keep at it!

[@ditmerk]

Great work as allways

[@ID-Guy]

My pleasure to always share these wacky ideas 😉🥃

[@pengxiang5444]

Well said. I own a Mark XV, that is how IWC Mark series watch should look like.

[@SlapShotRegatta22]

They 100% need to bring back the square hour and and need to shrink the case size a bit. I know many will disagree but 40mm, to me, is too big for a field watch...basically, everything you did with your Mark XXII mock-up. PERFECTION!

[@jameshoward9700]

100%!! The modern Mark has lost its way badly - an abominabal luxury mongrel! The Mark was such a fine watch, but the move to Flieger hands was a terrible decision. It seems so odd that a storied brand like IWC would lean into a dark past with such abandon while simultaneously attempting to erase its greatest design and delete its more positive contribution in the War and post-War years. But given the basic way Richemont brands market themselves, it's no great surprise.

[@ID-Guy]

Extremely well said James. If I hadn't pinned the top comment this one would've been it. "An abominable luxury mongrel" Talk about an oxymoron if there ever was one 😆🥃

[@xpusostomos]

Well... Neither one was "their design", they were the designs of their respective war ministries.

[@jeffdj1975]

My favourite is the mark 15. The biggest reason why is the date placement. It’s perfect! If you look at the mark xx, the date falls in line with the 2 and 4 markers. It should be a touch more to the right. It’s not symmetrical. Also the size of the 15 is perfect at 38mm.

[@derosa1989]

personally, couldn't care less. the longer quarter hour markers look great on the Mark xx dial, and the date position is no issue whatsoever in the real world. it's so small can't even see it half the time.

[@timothyjones9804]

A very interesting and thought provoking horological subject. Despite their great name, I honestly can’t remember the last time I saw an IWC in the wild, nor have I seen an IWC model in recent memory that stirs the loins.

[@jhb072]

Hello thanks for content. The finishing on the Mark XX is next level. I think it’s a pretty good deal for what you get. You should really consider getting it. I have a black Mark XX and am really happy with it.

[@ID-Guy]

Even after my critique, I'm still besotted with the Blue dial Mark XX 😉🥃

[@AmazingMaxStuff]

Great video! Would love myself a Mark XII. It seems you said that both the Mark XV and XII use ETA movements, but actually the XII uses the JLC 889/2, which I find really cool! Apologies if I’m just repeating something you mentioned. Thanks for your work, cheers!

[@jcarloz1252]

I am obsessed with the white dial on a bracelet.

[@MarielosDiaz-i5w]

God!!! MAMACOO Who would have thought those gorgeous watches go for that low!!!

[@andycorso8498]

Never been so aligned with your thoughts…… all those things you point out have stopped me Buying a Mark **. The current iteration has as you pointed out, lost its way a bit. It’s no longer A tool watch but a shiny luxury field watch, it falls between both stools….. and yet I too keep Coming back to it. I’m really interested in the Patrouille Suisse version as a possible candidate But as it’s Limited and only seemingly available in Switzerland my chances of getting my hands on one are slim. Let’s bully IWC into a version with more lume, drop the troublesome date, and change the hands…… oh it could be such a An amazing watch.

[@revenanke3132]

I happened to wear my Mark XV when watching this. It's my favourite watch in my collection and the perfect pilot watch for me. I like that they keep making tiny adjustments to the formula so you can pick the exact one you like the most. For me I much prefer the chopped hour hand to the flieger hands, so I first got a Mark XVIII Tribute edition, and then a Mark XV which I found to have superior proportions. I also prefer the white background date window as it balances out the other white numerals. It is more of a luxury watch while the Mark XII has a stronger field look. The Mark XX brought the design closer to the XV with its elongated cardinal markers, albeit with flieger hands, so I have a feeling they'll next take inspiration from the XII. I would love to see a return of the serif numerals.

[@WillowExpensive6636]

The one thing I really don't like in these pilot watches is the date. Is it pedantic to think that they shouldn't have a date because the original ones didn't have one ? I'm eyeing the B-Uhr from Laco precisely because it has a no date option while still being one of the brands that made original fliegers...

[@ID-Guy]

It's a great point to be made. I'm one of the few (who usually detests dates on watches) who kinda likes seeing date windows on these field / pilot pieces. Gives off more of a sense of "daily driver utility" y'know? But in the same way, the originals without dates, manual winding... poetry 🔥

[@TheCyclingCardio]

Their Fliger slash RAF hybrid design is what held me back from pulling the trigger on a pre-owned Spitfire…I’ve decided I wanted a true RAF design

[@gavinwhite9743]

I love your take on watches from a design perspective. You often articulate what I express as a feeling into design elements that jar,or don’t quite have harmony. Good work, always enjoy hearing your perspective, even when I don’t agree. ( I’ll never be a Tudor fan, but your takes help keep understand why people like it for instance) For me, IWC suffers a more fundamental problem. I dont know what IWC says about me as a brand. What it stands for. The pilot watch could be a Hamilton field watch for all intents and purposes, yet costs way more. Maybe I can’t get past International Watch Company sounds like an Ali Express brand. IWC make good looking watches, but will always be the bridesmaid, never the bride.

[@nathanlikert9866]

Strapping on my Mark XII to watch this excellent take. A couple extra points in the old watch's favor: the font is superb. The new Mark XX is too close to Comic Sans. The bracelet is best in class, completely solid, in an era in which Rolex wasn't even giving you solid end-links yet. Entirely brushed case, except for a ring around the bezel and the hands: totally under-the-radar and functional, zero bling. The handset, as you mentioned: story goes an RAF pilot complained that he couldn't tell the hours from the minutes so IWC snipped off the hour hand for him, and it stuck.

[@danieltaylor4475]

What do you think about the date wheel on the Mark XX not being colour matched to the dial? It’s just a deal breaker for me on any piece.

[@ahmada5207]

I personally own the blue Mark xx ever since it came out, I love it and its been my most worn watch ever since. But ever since I tried a Mark XII I been really thinking about switching, since you can feel it has much more personality somehow.

[@ID-Guy]

A bit more character to the numerals, slightly tighter proportions through the dial and case? There's just something other worldly about that Mark 11 design ;)

[@ahmada5207]

@ Exactly, they just have that timeless design feel to them. Thanks as always for the great content. 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@johnnyguitar6697]

I am a long term fan of IWC (25+ years) and I am fortunate to have two of its older models: a 3705 from 1998 and an UTC 3251 of 2000. The last great model of the Mark series was the Mark XV, which I find better than the Mark XII as its (substantially enhanced) ETA movement is more fit for purpose than the delicate JLC movement of the Mark XII. Having said that, the Mark XX is easily the best iteration since the Mark XV, and I am very strongly considering getting the blue version myself. I don't really mind that it's lost some of the traditional characteristics of the Mark series (the hands, predominantly), as the package is extremely coherent, and has some very desirable upgrades like the movement. A couple of things I would change on it: the date being a tad bigger and shifted slightly to the right, to better maintain the continuity with the numerals; and lume at every marker rather than just the cardinal points. But this might not prevent me to get it nonetheless. It is that good.

[@gpapa31]

Maybe unpopular opinion (pls show mercy). Laco and Tudor are currently what IWC and Rolex timepieces used to represent. Sadly with each new update IWC and Rolex are moving away from their roots and what made them the brand of choice for Explorers, pilots, climbers, speleologist, divers, scientists, engineers, adventurers and have slowly but convincingly transitioned their lineups, of what used to be simplistic sturdy and classy tool watches, into bling-bling status show off jewellery that appeal to bank executives, brockers and oil tycoons. Thankfully some models still retain that old pedigree (eg: Explorer 1&2, Big Pilot 43/Heritage) but god knows for how long. Awesome video. Love the Mark 12 and 15 and would be my choice.

[@ID-Guy]

Excellently said, nothing wrong with what you're saying here (and very true about how many brands have deviated so far from where they began - aiming towards being luxurious, prestigious etc etc)🥃

[@johnhaddock373]

Never mind what mark it is. Most of them appear to be afflicted with a date which ruins the symmetry of the dial. Just give me a simple three hander.

[@derosa1989]

I can't argue with your point that a Mark 11 or 12 should be somewhere in the range, based on the slightly smaller size, and the variety that the pencil and chopped hour hand contribute to another look, but for me personally, that doesn't impact how i feel about the XX one bit. I bought my mark xx after much consideration, and find it to be it's own thing - the 40mm size, the dial layout, the handset design and how it fits into the overall IWC design language for pilot watches - it's identity is perfect for what it is.

[@calvinchann1996]

IWC is not a brand that figures in my thinking. The only watch they have that I might have bought is the Ingenieur and I was ready to do so just before they launched the current generation which I thought was a money grab.

[@nvjenson]

Good video. While not directly related but not unrelated either, I had the Mark XX and the Zenith Pilot at the same time and the Mark XX evoked almost 0 emotion while on the wrist. I get the MSRP difference between the Mark XX and the Zenith Pilot but on the wrist they’re completely different. Yes, the Mark XX is thin, but that’s about it. Anyway I sold it and can’t stop looking at the beautiful Zenith Pilot dial.

[@ID-Guy]

And to think Zenith is the only brand technically allowed to put "Pilot" on their dials, love that detail. Thanks for sharing this brother. Just imagine is a Mk 11 is a future design on their cards... would be interesting to see how you'd take to that 😉

[@James_K_L]

I respect the Mark XX, but I won’t get it because of the date window. I do hope they come out without it. However, a Mark XI…I would love to find a good one.

[@ID-Guy]

Date windows... they really can make or break a look to a piece. We can only live in hope that they reignite that Mark XI flame 🔥

[@Not-a-bot222]

I come here for the history and design points. You are among the best in my opinion. While some focus on dimensions and on paper specs, you cater to the enthusiast who lives the “brands”, the historical significance and the actual design language. Just saying thanks I guess, I appreciate you

[@luisdator8080]

What can you say about the 36mm version? I like the mark xx but the 36 fits me better..

[@ryant]

I would love to see a Tribute to Mark X with small seconds, in a more modern ~38mm diameter, and an updated manual IWC Caliber 83 as a major bonus. The Tribute to 3705 is one of my favorite recent releases, along with the 2022 Royal Australian Air Force / RAAF Mark which looks fantastic. And Mark XV gets the most wrist time -- it's not just you. Thanks for another amazing video!

[@BAF605]

As is so often the case with military/field/pilot watches the earlier designs seem timeless and very difficult to improve. I love the mark X1 design. A big problem for IWC has always been the cost, and while I don't deny their quality, many cheaper brands create a very good look and excellent quality for much less. I bought the blatant Smiths copy but for the money it scratches the itch very well. You reminded me yet again that we are in different times. Maybe time for me to look at IWC again and make some exploratory offers to ADs. I bought my Zenith 384 reissue with a 35% discount so who knows what's possible.

[@actionarslan]

“Thank you for taking the time to watch this… ramble, and I’ll see you in the next one” hahaha I’d take the older. It says “gentleman” and sits like a gentlemen’s watch

[@mikec3454]

I own a ceratanium IWC Petronas Pilot chrono, it’s amazing. IWC is doing some of the best work in the business with ceramics and other material. Their Kurt Klaus perpetual is probably the best take on a perpetual on the market. I don’t think they get nearly enough credit as they deserve. I recently took in a Mark XX on a trade, it’s insanely comfortable and versatile. I owned the Mojave 41 and Lake Tahoe for a short period too. Their Top Gun range is awesome.. either you like the design language or not.

[@mikek6478]

Wonderful video as I raised the same concern to IWC to remake the XV as I like the size and design. They ignored by concern so I started to look at the Laco Original and Sinn 556a. I will purchase one in the very near future.

[@axn9868]

The Mark XX rocks. Combines the best elements of the back catalogue of field watches and Feligers. I’m happy with some identity issues as long as I get the most user friendly, versatile, no nonsense field watch I can afford. The Mark XX ticks that box and more.

[@Psyko1233]

The current problems for me regarding the Mark XX are the (retail) price and lug to lug measurements. I tried the black variant and although I can get away with the size, I felt like it’s a meh watch at best. If you’re talking about pilot watches, I immediately turn to Hanhart with their 417 ES chronographs. Exceptional pieces, great measurements, one of the best value for money in terms of what you get as a package and of course it’s history that is also linked to Steve McQueen. The 417 ES will definitely be my preference…until IWC decides to reissue the MARK XI with the old fully named logo.

[@one87dnb1]

Quality watches, and good value, if you look on the secondhand market!

[@ID-Guy]

Nailed it 😉🥃

[@marcgirard7551]

I really enjoyed this video and agree that this IWC Mark series is so attractive to me. I find myself constantly wanting to pick up a Mark XX (or a Mark XV) with the black dial and then thinking better of it because I have this excellent Khaki Field Auto with the black dial on my wrist that I love. It's weird how attractive these IWC Mark watches are versus similar watches. I think there's a collection of a number of almost indistinguishable differences that, when added up, make these IWC watches that almost perfect watch. I want one some day. Side note: Harrison Ford has been wearing his IWC Mark XV in the series Shrinking and it just looks so great and fits that part. I want one!

[@kjeldpedersen666]

“RAF” hands or “Luftwaffe” hands…? I own a Mark XV, 38mm, from 2001. Bought it because I liked the resemblance to the “Dirty Dozen” stick hands models. It has an ETA movement which is ok. Reliable and not very expensive to service. But really I would have preferred a 36mm Mark XII with the Jeager Le Coutre movement. They were just too expensive… The Mark XV is my everyday watch and I have never had any trouble with it. Strap on & go! I like the “German style” sword hands fleiger watches too. But I think that IWC should have kept these styles apart in honor of history… Totally agree that IWC should make an English style aviation watch again. And please, IWC, don’t make the same mistake as almost every other brand does reviving earlier models - making it bigger😆

[@Yorkshiremadmick]

I like the aesthetics of the Mark XX The hands, both black and blue dials.

[@fredlarke3806]

Interesting video. One of my favorite watches (and watch manufacturers, albeit with an uninspiring name) is the IWC UTC dual time in 39 mm. Unlike GMT bezel watches, it is a very sophisticated and understated way of capturing two time zones. I have also found IWC a great company to communicate with regarding servicing. So I've been trying to find a mate to this watch and have narrowed it down to the 39mm spitfire of a few years ago, and the new Mark XX - but it's now 40 mm and quite expensive.

[@therapiststeve3294]

Welcome Back!!!

[@thedoctorgreg]

It would be amazing to see the MK XI produced again.

[@richardwarren2024]

As a former owner of the Mark XX, I really liked its duality as both a pilot watch and a field watch. It got more wear time than my Rolex Explorer. That said, I would like to see a new Mark watch with Mark 11 style hands. The Fleiger hands can certainly be viewed is not being entirely harmonious with the rest of the design. I’d choose a current Mark XX over a 1994 Mark 12, but I might go another way if the 12 were given the same specs as the XX.

[@theoriginalaceofspades7829]

The XVIII Heritage is tremendously underrated. It was the last beautiful one in the series. I don't give a damn about the moment. The easily repairable movement is the epitome of what a great tool watch should be. With the titanium, it weighs like nothing.

[@skylarm3122]

Can someone help me out? I've always been into watches but only seriously since around 2019 or so. I am not seeing the differences that this video is talking about or understanding the identity crisis point. Love the channel, I just don't get this video's points. Other than the hands and movement (which to my eye are both substantial improvements) how exactly is the Mark XX different from the Mark XII?

[@dingodave3966]

Dear Mr IDGuy, I have to be careful listening to you. Could cost me money. Thankfully not this time. Holding strong. 💪🏼 ❤

[@Ossory88]

Are you saying, by inference, that since iwc opted for the rather German design language in their mark series, they show their true colours which side they preferred delivering their equipment to? 😜

[@ID-Guy]

Love leaving it open to interpretation 😆 BUT there are some good theories floating around that they opted to use this design to blur the lines? I dunno man... it's perplexing knowing that they could do both and make an even bigger killing 🔥