Bidspirit auction | IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Edition

IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Edition “Antoine de Saint Exupéry” Limited edition number: 226/500 18K Rose Gold -  IWC was founded in 1868 by American engineer Florentine Jones, bringing precise engineering to Swiss watchmaking. It’s renowned for its iconic Pilot’s Watches, elegant Portugieser line, and the bold Big Pilot. The brand is defined by clean lines, understated elegance, and mechanical excellence. IWC is perfect for those who value a balance of refined simplicity and inner strength. This watch is part of IWC's pilot-themed collections, celebrating aviation heritage and the legacy of pioneers like Saint-Exupéry. The map engraving highlights his historic postal flight path from France to Morocco. The IWC Pilot's Watch Antoine De Saint Exupery Power Reserve, reference IW3201-03, is a distinguished timepiece introduced by IWC in 2007 to honor the famed French aviator and author Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. This model was part of a limited edition series, with only 500 pieces crafted in 18k rose gold, making it a sought-after collector's item. It's a piece appreciated both for its horological craftsmanship and storytelling. Specification Details Case Material 18K Rose Gold Case Diameter 46.2 mm Movement IWC Calibre 51111 (in-house) Power Reserve 7 days (168 hours) Functions Power reserve indicator, Date display Crystal Sapphire with anti-reflective coating Water Resistance 6 bar / 60 meters Strap Brown alligator leather with rivets (aviator style) Limited Edition 500 pieces worldwide Tobacco brown sunburst dial (IWC signature for Saint Exupéry editions) Large date display at 6 o'clock Power reserve indicator at 3 o'clock ”A.” initials on dial – referencing Antoine de Saint Exupéry 18K rose gold case Oversized crown (Big Pilot style) Map engraving with Toulouse–Casablanca route on the caseback Limited edition number: 226/500 Current Market Value (as of May 2025): Given your watch is from a 500-piece limited run, and considering the market activity on reputable platforms: Excellent condition with box/papers: $21,000 – $23,000 USD Very good condition, full set: $18,000 – $20,000 USD Watch only, minor wear: $15,500 – $17,500 USD