IWC introduced the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar ProSet 140 Years Mercedes-Benz on August 13, 2026. Reference IW329603 is limited to 140 pieces, one for each year since the invention of the automobile in 1886. The anniversary edition combines a 42mm stainless steel case with a black-and-gold dial and IWC’s new ProSet perpetual calendar, which can be corrected both forward and backward.
The dial is the best part
I like the design, especially the dial. The glossy black surface gives the four subdials enough visual separation, while the solid gold appliqués and gold-plated hands make the display warmer without making it look gaudy. A white minute track keeps the outer edge clear. The date sits at 3 o’clock, the month at 6, the day at 9 and the Double Moon display at 12. A four-digit year window appears between 7 and 8 o’clock.
The brushed and polished steel case is 42mm wide and 14mm thick. It remains a substantial watch, especially on my 6.5-inch wrist, but these dimensions are easier to imagine wearing than the traditional oversized Big Pilot format. A convex sapphire crystal has anti-reflective coating on both sides, while the sapphire caseback carries the first joint Mercedes-Benz logo from 1926, combining the three-pointed star with a laurel wreath. That historical detail feels more tasteful on the back than spread across the dial.
ProSet fixes a familiar calendar problem
The perpetual calendar recognises different month lengths and leap years, but the clever part is how it is adjusted. Its gear-based module, protected by four patents, lets the owner move every calendar display forward or backward from one crown position. If the date is accidentally advanced too far, there is no need to wait for the watch to catch up. The Double Moon display serves both hemispheres and should deviate by only one day after 1,040 years.
IWC’s automatic calibre 82665 runs at 4Hz, uses 34 jewels and stores 60 hours of power. Its bidirectional Pellaton winding system uses ceramic components, while the escapement is made from nickel-phosphorus and works with a silicon hairspring. Those details matter because this is not simply an anniversary colour scheme. The movement is the real technical reason for the watch to exist.
The strap misses an opportunity
The black rubber strap has IWC’s tool-free EasX-CHANGE system, so replacing it should be simple. Functionally, that is useful. Visually, I do not think the plain design is the perfect partner for the dial or the automotive theme. IWC could have created a more distinctive strap with subtle perforation, considered stitching or another detail inspired by a Mercedes interior. Even a discreet Mercedes three-pointed star on the underside would add character without turning the front of the watch into branded merchandise.
Price, availability and my conclusion
The official European price is €40,900 including VAT, while the UK price is £32,100 including VAT. IWC’s United States page currently lists the watch for enquiry without publishing a dollar price. With only 140 examples available, this will remain a rare version of the ProSet.
I am not a Mercedes fan, so the anniversary itself is not what wins me over. The watch does. The black-and-gold dial is beautiful, the calendar is clever and the 42mm steel case makes the Big Pilot idea easier to enjoy. With a better strap, the whole design would feel complete. As delivered, it is still a beautiful watch attached to the one element I would change immediately.
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