Description

IWC is renowned for its perpetual calendar watches, thanks to the ingenious movement developed by IWC’s chief watchmaker Kurt Klaus in the 1980s. A complex mechanical device, it recognizes the different lengths of the months and leap years and will not (if kept wound) need an adjustment until 2100, and the perpetual moon phase display will only require a one-day adjustment in 577.5 years.

Armor gold is a new gold alloy that is significantly harder and more wear-resistant than conventional 5N gold. Used for the first time in the Big Pilot’s Watch Constant Force Tourbillon “Le Petit Prince”, Armor gold appears again for the case of this Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon. Measuring 46.2mm across with a height of 16mm, the case and oversized conical crown are made of 18k Armor gold. The finishings reveal a brightly polished crown and bezel, while the lugs are brushed for contrast.

The tourbillon and perpetual calendar calibre 51950 is automatic. Powered by an 18k gold oscillating weight, it beats at a frequency of 19,800vph and delivers a formidable 7-day power reserve spread across two barrels. With its charming decoration of the prince on his asteroid, the rotor of this model still allows a view of the large three-quarter plate and glimpses of the moving parts.