Just got this watch. It Looks so good on the wrist, I wear it everyday minus Tuesdays when I wear my speedy 3861. The crystal, the strap, the casing are all superb! A beautiful timepiece!
I’ve had this watch for almost a year and it’s lived up to its hype. It’s a great versatile everyday wear that’s easy to dress up or down. I do agree that the retail price of this piece is a tad high. However, IWC boutiques (NOT ADs) will make you the best deals on them. I got mine for $4,000 USD while also getting a free IWC leather strap ($200 value). Highly recommend it!
I own this watch for 4 month now. Splendid time piece, extremely precise (around -1 second per day). I’m fan of it’s look, readability! Can’t understand people who compare it to Hamilton! IWC watches are very well finished, you can see that every detail of the watch is nicely worked! Good job IWC, I don’t regret my purchase
I think people compare it to the Hamilton because they look similar, have silicon parts and after all they are both watches! Watch snobs do not like the comparison because of the price difference. Snobs like expensive stuff as it makes them feel special.
Spot on hit my deciding factors! I picked one of these up yesterday, it was between the Mark Heritage and the Spitfire. The in-house movement, size and overall look were the deciding factors for me.
Thanks for reviewing. I tried this on two weeks ago and I am completely smitten. I have a family connection to spitfires and this feels like the one for me. 😍
Thank you for continuing to make entertaining and informative videos during trying times. I love my IWC Mark XVIII Edition “Le Petit Prince”, which I selected over the Spitfire. A beautifully finished timepiece that gives me joy every time I wear it. It’s also the most accurate mechanical watch that I own, gaining just a fraction of a second per day. Best wishes to all fellow enthusiasts.
I love the watch. I think it is beautiful in its simplicity and with the new movement I can understand the price better than IWC's previous offerings in this price bracket. For me, this is an alternative the explorer for example. So while it may feel a bit simplistic and sober for the price, I'd argue that is kind of the point.
Walked in the ADs today to look at a Tudor for my wife, I accidentally slipped, fell and bought this exact model, that 39 mm case was what the Mark xvii needed, plus as you said, this even looks better, the fact that my family’s friend was involved in designing the original spitfire planes was the clincher for me.
Thanks Adrian. Spitfire is a great watch, though when you compare it to other options in the price range (either new or pre-owned), it unfortunately tends to get moved down in the queue. 👍⌚
I fell in love with the Mark XVIII accidentally. I went to IWC just to browse the new releases and saw the Mark XVIII in the case and fell in love with the Le petit prince blue dial version. I went back a couple days later and tried it on again and walked out with it. It’s my most worn watch
Great review, Adrian! I have to disagree on the date window... if you look at the position of the white date window versus the white numerals and look at the dial overall, I feel like the white date window gives a more balanced look to the dial than a black one would. In my mind, the alternatives for best looks here would be the white date window (which I love having a date on my watches) or to have the white "3" numeral there. I don't think the black date window would work as well.
I’d prefer a no date version. I still think it’s too expensive even with an in house movement. A BB58 is nearly half the price, and delivers all the vintage goodness. You’re gonna have to really want a pilot/field watch to shell out on this.
I have had one for about one month now. Mine is bronze with a green dial. I am tired of black dials although I admit that they are very legible. It can be hard to see the thin gold seconds hand. The accuracy is excellent - better than my much more expensive JLC. I like it.
@@bombazine2 do your research, both Laco and Stowa made the original Luftwaffe Nav-Uhr (A/ B) during WWII. They're both currently making watches which follow closely the design aesthetic from the era (albeit not in 55mm case size - too big).
@@bombazine2 Not the point: IWC is overpriced and doesn't have more history than Laco or Stowa, so your argument about buying an "invicter" (lol) just fell in the water.
I have the Spitfire MK VXI that a bought new heavily discounted in 2009 as I was aware of the fact that the movement was a reworked ETA. Two months after the warranty expired the watch stopped working, I wrote a letter IWC and they told me to send it to them, the watch was fixed / serviced for free. The watch is good but not the best time keeper in my watch box, to put it politely when compared to my other pieces. I perhaps will not buy it today at the current price point, I just picked up a Tudor GMT for less than the current MKXVlll and it absolute demolishes my Spitfire in time keeping and I am sure it will trump Mark 16 reviewed here.. A nice brand to have when you don't want the negativity of a Rolex or its flamboyance. I love it's simplicity and elegance! Nice review B & J.
They are simply nice watches to wear & own, you do find yourself looking at it from time to time and admiring the design, functionality & build quality I think I would have to spend a lot more on a watch to get the same satisfaction, it's nice to be the first owner but buy used and you get excellent value for money. The flagship store in Bomd St. London is worth a mention the people there are friendly, helpful, professional and present a positive brand image.
Was hoping you'd mention the long lugs. The nato strap hides it but I do think they're longer than they need to be. The size is better, yes, but the extended lug length negates the more compact case size.
Adrian, I, one hundred percent agree with you! If you have a black dial, use a black date wheel. For some reason, the while date wheel bothers me, but the Spitfire does look good, even better if it had a black date wheel.
I had an option to pick a Tudor Black bay 58( Black) or an IWC Spitfire on Nato..... I came home with the IWC Spitfire. As much as I love the Black Bay 58, I didn't want to get another diver watch and pay full retail. I always wanted to add a good Pilot watch to my collection and this is it, specially when I got a 18% discount from an AD, it was an easy choice.
At the moment this is exactly my dilemma. BB58 Blue or IWC Spitfire. I have been leaning to the Spitfire because I already have divers and the Pilot is something different. Though I question the value, and I question the brand equity for such a piece. No rush though, but buying watches is so hard! 1st world problem of course
I'm ok with the date window here. I think the white background helps balance the absence of a white numeral there. That said, I think if the watch was 37mm and the date window was a bit more lateral that would really make it perfect (for me)
The bracelet on the XVIII may be the best on the market for a mass produced piece. This alone puts it over the Spitfire. Their use of a 2892-A2 isn't a problem either. Their 30110 caliber is a kit from ETA and is heavily modified by IWC. It is not a refinished ETA movement. Adrian got this completely wrong. It is built from the ground up by IWC. Calling the IWC 30110 a refinished ETA movement is like calling a Lexus a Toyota. The in house movement by IWC for the spitfire is almost the same as the 30110 in design and function. Major difference is the power reserve and anti-magnetic properties. ETA killed their deal so IWC is making their own version of the 30110 without ETAs blessing. IWC-30110: The caliber used in the Aquatimer and XViii is the IWC-30110, introduced in 2003 to replace the IWC-37524. There is a selitta version but I don't have much knowledge on this so I would steer away from it. The IWC-30110 is an extensively reworked ETA2892A2 caliber with 28800vph, 42-hour power reserve and automatic winding. The ETA2892A2 derives from the 18000vph 28mm ETA2890 movement, and is reduced in diameter to fit into smaller cases. The 9mm-balancewheel is supported by a cock and has an “Etachron”-fineadjustment. The ETA2892-A2 is 25.6mm in diameter and 3.6mm high. This caliber is delivered to IWC in parts in its finest grade (chronometer-grade) that ETA delivers. Then IWC improves the caliber with new/better parts, and Nickel-plates and decorates it. The 'standard' ETA2892A2 has 21 jewels, IWC adds 2 jewels (mainspring-barrel), amongst other improvements like replacing the date-mechanism and reducing the diameter of the ball bearing of the rotor to increase winding efficiency. These improvements made by IWC throughout the complete movement makes the movement run so efficiently that the mainspring has to be replaced by a less stronger one. IWC does the assembling and regulation completely in-house. When the watch leaves the factory, it is tested for 21 days and runs within +0...+7 sec/24H, which is a tighter tolerance than used by COSC. That movement in the spitfire the 32110 will most likely not perform better as it is based on the 30110. The technical details are almost the same as is its caliber number. Call it what you will, the 30110 is one of the highest performing movements on the market today.
Good, no nonsense review (as usual). Reference the glass, pressure and poping out. The glass on my wife's Oris poped out on a plane. A little surprising and dissapointing but it obviously can happen. Keep the channel going!
IWC is a brand that photos often don't do them justice, but holding and studying on I you're hands you will quickly se the difference from more similar watches...
Understand the discussed price issue because of the off the shelf movements. But some of top high horology brands have done the same in the past and did a their job on these movements. The price is then obviously defined by the watch (case) making and not just the movement making. I own the portofino chronograph that has the valjoux 7750....and I must say that the finishing of the watch is excellent. Think IWC trumps with their finishing and their dials etc. At the end of the day... Obviously the inhouse 72PR movement for the same or similar money is even better. You could say now it's a bargain or a lot of bang für your buck like grand seiko. Before it was an upper end adequate price. Love the vids! Keep em coming... Respect!
I just think when it comes down to it, every single IWC watch is just massively overpriced for what you get. The finishing is great and all, but their prices just seem more egregious compared to other companies
I notice the minute hand jumped on yours when pulling out the crown, as on mine which also jumped when pushing the crown in thus making it a chore to set the time accurately. IWC told me that this is normal but at this price I wouldn't expect it to be.
Hello Adrian! If the Spitfire had the overall appearance of the Mark XVIII (black date window, no patina) I'd buy it tomorrow based on the in-house movement and the sexy red Spitfire on the dial and engraved back. There was a question as to the association to the Spitfire and IWC, saw an in-depth review stating that IWC (and JLC) were contracted by the RAF to supply them with watches based on their specifications. The result is two almost identical watches from two different manufacturers aside from the IWC vs. JLC logos. Would love to see a side by side comparison of the vintage pieces...then compare movements. Thanks for the brief review. I am going to get an IWC...still not sure if Mark XV, XVI or XVIII. Almost 7.5 inch wrist here so I can carry off the XVIII. Looking for that tooly/aviator watch...IWC would be a step up from the Oris and Sinn pieces I have been considering, but worth it imho. Cheers!
Just received, larger than anticipated, still fits well. Had the leather strap on hand which I prefer, throughout the course of the day, my contentment at the watch has grown immensely - SO legible and such an inviting dial.
Thank you for another great video during these sad times (puts a smile on our faces). I was very lucky to pick up a IWC Spitfire Perpetual Calendar Bronze Limited to 250 world wide. I can not take if of my wrist it is such an amazing watch. I have put a crocodile camouflage strap on it and it has taken it to another level. I can not wait for you to do a video on the IWC Perpetual Calendar. Take care and be safe with your loved ones.
I have the bronze version and it is spectacular. It hasn't left my wrist since I received it about a month ago and the patina is coming along nicely, I can't wait to see how it ages. I do think the date window is a bit distracting as well, but I feel as if the white wheel with black numerals makes the missing '3' less notable (I would prefer it at 6 o'clock though). I picked mine up for $3,900 (it was one month used) and couldn't be more happy.
I do won’t why so many watches have date complications myself, I love my OP39 exactly because I don’t have to worry about setting date every time I put it on
the lug to lug is also 50mm? does it notably wear smaller compared to the Mark 18? ... was thinking of selling mmy Mark 18 and getting a Spitfire instead ,,, just because of the size ... worth it?
Love the dial! But the second hand looks a little bit choppy, perhaps because of the 4Hz mvmt? IWC states the 32110 calibre is 28800 vph though, why it is 4Hz then?
The white date wheel is for balancing the dial. I think having a black date wheel would disturb the balance of the dial. The only problem I see is 60m water resistance. I would require at least a 100m water resistance for my tool watch. This is definitely a show stopper for me.
The 39 and 40 versions have the misaligned date window which may be mitigated visually by a black date wheel on a black dial but it’s still there. It’s not corrected until you get down to 36. Even the in-house wasn’t resized to accommodate in the 39. I’d still take the 40 Petit Prince pretty sunburst blue on the gorgeous brown calfskin strap but the date wheel is white and the misalignment would bug me. Nice watches though. If the date isn’t an issue you can’t go far wrong.
Thanks for the vid, Adrian. Will have to disagree about the date wheel colour though - I think it adds balance to to the dial (black might throw it off a bit). Now fussed if the lume was white or aged - it all depends on the design really - but it should be one or the other - looks quite odd. I’ve always thought the Pilot 36 was an underappreciated offering from IWC - equally at home as a dress or sporty type watch. Keep up the great content, hope you and your family stay safe
I've tried it on and I loved it in a lot of ways. However, it always seems like I prefer the idea of IWC to the reality. I wish they'd make their water resistance 100m as standard, like Rolex do. I'm a pilot and I do appreciate that these are designed for aviation, but I'd rather have a watch I don't have to worry about damaging with water (layovers in hotels with pools...).
This is my favorite IWC watch, it's beautiful....I'd love to own one. HATE the double dome sapphire though, why!? I'd swap that out for something different straight away. Now's probably not the time to be dropping four grand on one though is it!? 😬
There is an above average profit margin factored into some IWC timepieces, this being one. I have collected watches for nearly 20 years now and have never considered adding non vintage IWC to my collection. I have recently purchased a new Doxa 300t sub professional. A far better value purchase than the one above for example.
Thanks for the presentation Adrian. Do you have by any chance the specs on the L2L length on that piece? I wish they would loose the date window and make it 38 mm with a 46mm L2L, that would be a better proportioned watch.
I was originally looking to get one of these when they were first released. I emailed IWC and found out that the lug to lug measurement was 50mm. I tried one on and wanted to love it but these lugs were just too long for me. 38mm with 46 lug to lug I agree would be a better proportioned watch but 39mm with 47 lug to lug would have been excellent - and yes loose the date window.
I can't justify that price for the amount of lume of it. I also dislike the date complication and strap. I'll keep my Stowa Flieger Classic for 1/4 of the cost.
“Something off with the date window” it’s because they use smaller diameter date wheel hence the date window isn’t in line with the hour index axis. This mistake happens frequently with other brands as well
This does not make any sense to me. What is the hour index axis other than the centre of the dial? And how can something that turns around it line up with that? Or not?
Bob Martens I wish I can explain it here with a picture. I try to make it simpler, the date window should be positioned outward closer to the bezel so it aligned to the absent 3 o’clock marker. I hope you can visualize it.
Nice looking watch and interesting package on paper. But from the previous comments I get the vibe that IWC have now definitely hit the end of the road in terms of price gauging (TBH - they probably already did this a while ago, when you consider their grey market and used prices)...
It's in house movement, but still ETA based right? So is it really in house? No matter how much they've improved it, it's still not in house. Great watch, just wish there was more transparency.
Yes! I love IWC :)))) if you can't get rolex explorer go and buy this one. its have the same cool factor. when I see on streets person with IWC I want to talk with him or her. its just got that silent drama. cool video. thanks!
Kyle better made and better looking that a Hamilton. Similar quality to Rolex, granted a Rolex movement is more accurate and stronger, but this has a better power reserve. It’s all down to what you value in a watch.
Glad you mentioned the date wheel issue - cannot unsee which saves me some money. I love the IWC aesthetic and would look to buy one in an airport to save on the VAT. Date wheel needs to be inverted to make sense here I think!
The strap alone is more than a hundred dollars different from Hamilton. There are also many details, such as the leather travel watch box, first-class polishing and brushing, the surface with sapphire glass and anti-reflective coating, and the carefully polished movement, 8 years warranty. If you pick up both, you must like IWC.
Great review as always but wish you compared to your 36 mm explorer and the current rolex 39mm explorer. How does it fit on the wrist ...does it ware larger or smaller ?
Is there ANY watch out there that's 38mm (or below) and has Coke Bezel + GMT hand!? I really love the look of a coke bezel but have very petite wrists - 6 inches exactly. The closes thing I could find is the C.W. Ocean One wif the red bezel but I would feel like I'm settling instead of getting what I REALLY WANT if I bought that.
Love seeing IWC get some screen time. How you feel about your Explorer is how I feel about my Spitfire Double Chrono. It’s always Rolex or Omega, etc...always reminds me of Ford or Chevy...completely forgetting Dodge. That’s IWC...they’re not for the masses, but those that choose Probus Scaffusia, are fanatical and loyal. Great review!
What's the reason behind not colour matching the dial and date wheel? Surely it is a small thing to do. To me it feels like buying a black car with a white left fender. Why should I want to do that?
yeaa I like the spitfire because of its proportions, movement, but I agree, the 18's dial is the real winner. tbh, if it were a 38, id like it way more, but 39 is fine
you need a jewellers loop to see it, but how often are you going to stare at your watch through a jewellers loop. There are Hamilton's for 10th of the price that look pretty much look the same to the naked eye.
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VERY INTERESTING VIDEO. CONGRATULATIONS. I LIKE WATCHES.
Just got this watch. It Looks so good on the wrist, I wear it everyday minus Tuesdays when I wear my speedy 3861. The crystal, the strap, the casing are all superb! A beautiful timepiece!
I’ve had this watch for almost a year and it’s lived up to its hype. It’s a great versatile everyday wear that’s easy to dress up or down. I do agree that the retail price of this piece is a tad high. However, IWC boutiques (NOT ADs) will make you the best deals on them. I got mine for $4,000 USD while also getting a free IWC leather strap ($200 value). Highly recommend it!
Ar coating on the outer ?
Typically I've heard that the boutiques never discount watches?
I own this watch for 4 month now. Splendid time piece, extremely precise (around -1 second per day). I’m fan of it’s look, readability! Can’t understand people who compare it to Hamilton! IWC watches are very well finished, you can see that every detail of the watch is nicely worked! Good job IWC, I don’t regret my purchase
I don’t understand people comparing it to a Hamilton either. It’s like people comparing a Seiko SKX to a Submariner.
Likewise, i have mine since last Nov.... feels like an occasion every time i wear it.
Muhammad Bulbulia totally agree
I've got the Mark XVI. People usually compare it to either a Stowa or Sinn 556. They are way off. People need to see the IWC in person.
I think people compare it to the Hamilton because they look similar, have silicon parts and after all they are both watches! Watch snobs do not like the comparison because of the price difference. Snobs like expensive stuff as it makes them feel special.
Spot on hit my deciding factors! I picked one of these up yesterday, it was between the Mark Heritage and the Spitfire. The in-house movement, size and overall look were the deciding factors for me.
I saw the thumbnail and fell instantly in love with the IWC
Thanks for reviewing. I tried this on two weeks ago and I am completely smitten. I have a family connection to spitfires and this feels like the one for me. 😍
An update… bought it a few days ago. Still smitten.
Thank you for continuing to make entertaining and informative videos during trying times. I love my IWC Mark XVIII Edition “Le Petit Prince”, which I selected over the Spitfire. A beautifully finished timepiece that gives me joy every time I wear it. It’s also the most accurate mechanical watch that I own, gaining just a fraction of a second per day. Best wishes to all fellow enthusiasts.
Had mine for just shy of a year and it’s fantastic. Grows on you the more you wear it 👌
I love the watch. I think it is beautiful in its simplicity and with the new movement I can understand the price better than IWC's previous offerings in this price bracket. For me, this is an alternative the explorer for example. So while it may feel a bit simplistic and sober for the price, I'd argue that is kind of the point.
Walked in the ADs today to look at a Tudor for my wife, I accidentally slipped, fell and bought this exact model, that 39 mm case was what the Mark xvii needed, plus as you said, this even looks better, the fact that my family’s friend was involved in designing the original spitfire planes was the clincher for me.
Blah blah blah
Thanks Adrian. Spitfire is a great watch, though when you compare it to other options in the price range (either new or pre-owned), it unfortunately tends to get moved down in the queue. 👍⌚
I fell in love with the Mark XVIII accidentally. I went to IWC just to browse the new releases and saw the Mark XVIII in the case and fell in love with the Le petit prince blue dial version. I went back a couple days later and tried it on again and walked out with it. It’s my most worn watch
Same thing happened to me and now I love my LPP! The blue is so beautiful.
05reddragon05 I did exactly the same thing
Same thing for me, except for the white/silver version!
Great review, Adrian! I have to disagree on the date window... if you look at the position of the white date window versus the white numerals and look at the dial overall, I feel like the white date window gives a more balanced look to the dial than a black one would. In my mind, the alternatives for best looks here would be the white date window (which I love having a date on my watches) or to have the white "3" numeral there. I don't think the black date window would work as well.
Love the Spitfire! It’s on my radar.
I’d prefer a no date version. I still think it’s too expensive even with an in house movement. A BB58 is nearly half the price, and delivers all the vintage goodness. You’re gonna have to really want a pilot/field watch to shell out on this.
for moment it is the best pilot/field watch. don't compare with stowa or other crap. this is watch for "one watch collection".
I agree and look forward to a cheaper alternative based on this watch but without the date. Hurry up Parnis.
“In house” movement at that.
Great assessment...
Fortis @ 1/5 the price
I saw this in Schiphol airport a simple design yet stunningly perfect !
Ive owned the IWC spitfire for a week its amazing im very happy with it worth every dollar i spent.
I have had one for about one month now. Mine is bronze with a green dial. I am tired of black dials although I admit that they are very legible. It can be hard to see the thin gold seconds hand. The accuracy is excellent - better than my much more expensive JLC. I like it.
Would love to see an update to this video where you compare the spitfire to the Mark XX. I’m debating between those two.
Although I like some of their designs, if I want a flieger I'm getting a Laco, where I won't feel like I'm being ripped off.
Or a Stowa
IWC have a genuine history. If you don’t care about engineering or heritage buy an invicter
@@bombazine2 do your research, both Laco and Stowa made the original Luftwaffe Nav-Uhr (A/ B) during WWII. They're both currently making watches which follow closely the design aesthetic from the era (albeit not in 55mm case size - too big).
Anthony Shillingford so did IWC and Lange
@@bombazine2 Not the point: IWC is overpriced and doesn't have more history than Laco or Stowa, so your argument about buying an "invicter" (lol) just fell in the water.
Saw these in a boutique and finish is grade A!
this design is very simple, and the nylon strap is also suitable for outdoor wear,amazing
I have the Spitfire MK VXI that a bought new heavily discounted in 2009 as I was aware of the fact that the movement was a reworked ETA. Two months after the warranty expired the watch stopped working, I wrote a letter IWC and they told me to send it to them, the watch was fixed / serviced for free. The watch is good but not the best time keeper in my watch box, to put it politely when compared to my other pieces.
I perhaps will not buy it today at the current price point, I just picked up a Tudor GMT for less than the current MKXVlll and it absolute demolishes my Spitfire in time keeping and I am sure it will trump Mark 16 reviewed here.. A nice brand to have when you don't want the negativity of a Rolex or its flamboyance. I love it's simplicity and elegance! Nice review B & J.
They are simply nice watches to wear & own, you do find yourself looking at it from time to time and admiring the design, functionality & build quality I think I would have to spend a lot more on a watch to get the same satisfaction, it's nice to be the first owner but buy used and you get excellent value for money. The flagship store in Bomd St. London is worth a mention the people there are friendly, helpful, professional and present a positive brand image.
Was hoping you'd mention the long lugs. The nato strap hides it but I do think they're longer than they need to be. The size is better, yes, but the extended lug length negates the more compact case size.
Adrian, I, one hundred percent agree with you! If you have a black dial, use a black date wheel. For some reason, the while date wheel bothers me, but the Spitfire does look good, even better if it had a black date wheel.
I had an option to pick a Tudor Black bay 58( Black) or an IWC Spitfire on Nato..... I came home with the IWC Spitfire. As much as I love the Black Bay 58, I didn't want to get another diver watch and pay full retail. I always wanted to add a good Pilot watch to my collection and this is it, specially when I got a 18% discount from an AD, it was an easy choice.
At the moment this is exactly my dilemma. BB58 Blue or IWC Spitfire. I have been leaning to the Spitfire because I already have divers and the Pilot is something different. Though I question the value, and I question the brand equity for such a piece. No rush though, but buying watches is so hard! 1st world problem of course
I'm ok with the date window here. I think the white background helps balance the absence of a white numeral there. That said, I think if the watch was 37mm and the date window was a bit more lateral that would really make it perfect (for me)
I wish the specifications of this spitfire trickles down to future mark series watches. It’d be perfect.
The bracelet on the XVIII may be the best on the market for a mass produced piece. This alone puts it over the Spitfire.
Their use of a 2892-A2 isn't a problem either. Their 30110 caliber is a kit from ETA and is heavily modified by IWC. It is not a refinished ETA movement. Adrian got this completely wrong.
It is built from the ground up by IWC. Calling the IWC 30110 a refinished ETA movement is like calling a Lexus a Toyota. The in house movement by IWC for the spitfire is almost the same as the 30110 in design and function. Major difference is the power reserve and anti-magnetic properties. ETA killed their deal so IWC is making their own version of the 30110 without ETAs blessing.
IWC-30110:
The caliber used in the Aquatimer and XViii is the IWC-30110, introduced in 2003 to replace the IWC-37524. There is a selitta version but I don't have much knowledge on this so I would steer away from it. The IWC-30110 is an extensively reworked ETA2892A2 caliber with 28800vph, 42-hour power reserve and automatic winding. The ETA2892A2 derives from the 18000vph 28mm ETA2890 movement, and is reduced in diameter to fit into smaller cases. The 9mm-balancewheel is supported by a cock and has an “Etachron”-fineadjustment. The ETA2892-A2 is 25.6mm in diameter and 3.6mm high.
This caliber is delivered to IWC in parts in its finest grade (chronometer-grade) that ETA delivers. Then IWC improves the caliber with new/better parts, and Nickel-plates and decorates it. The 'standard' ETA2892A2 has 21 jewels, IWC adds 2 jewels (mainspring-barrel), amongst other improvements like replacing the date-mechanism and reducing the diameter of the ball bearing of the rotor to increase winding efficiency. These improvements made by IWC throughout the complete movement makes the movement run so efficiently that the mainspring has to be replaced by a less stronger one.
IWC does the assembling and regulation completely in-house. When the watch leaves the factory, it is tested for 21 days and runs within +0...+7 sec/24H, which is a tighter tolerance than used by COSC. That movement in the spitfire the 32110 will most likely not perform better as it is based on the 30110. The technical details are almost the same as is its caliber number. Call it what you will, the 30110 is one of the highest performing movements on the market today.
Good, no nonsense review (as usual). Reference the glass, pressure and poping out. The glass on my wife's Oris poped out on a plane. A little surprising and dissapointing but it obviously can happen. Keep the channel going!
My favourite IWC second to the 3239 Ingenieur
IWC is a brand that photos often don't do them justice, but holding and studying on I you're hands you will quickly se the difference from more similar watches...
Adrian loves a curvaceous number
That date window is a dealbreaker for me. I would definitely buy one if they just put a simple 3 on there.
Understand the discussed price issue because of the off the shelf movements. But some of top high horology brands have done the same in the past and did a their job on these movements. The price is then obviously defined by the watch (case) making and not just the movement making. I own the portofino chronograph that has the valjoux 7750....and I must say that the finishing of the watch is excellent. Think IWC trumps with their finishing and their dials etc. At the end of the day... Obviously the inhouse 72PR movement for the same or similar money is even better. You could say now it's a bargain or a lot of bang für your buck like grand seiko. Before it was an upper end adequate price. Love the vids! Keep em coming... Respect!
When will they provide new inhouse movement with sweep white second hand?
I didn’t pay much attention to IWC until watching your video. I’m now completely smitten by the Spitfire. Would love to own one someday.
I just think when it comes down to it, every single IWC watch is just massively overpriced for what you get. The finishing is great and all, but their prices just seem more egregious compared to other companies
If it is not for the logo, it can easily pass for a $300 Hamilton.
That’s a very fair comment. I’ve positioned a discussion with a few people around the idea of “value” and what we want to get for our money.
@@BarkandJack Certainly more than time and date, but then again that red-lettering "spitfire" must be some expensive paint....
Exactly! Why are the big pilots more expensive than a Daytona, I'll never understand.
They are great value on the used market. Then you get the real price.
If you like that design, IWC got a 41mm with certanium case -> IW326901 of course also with caliber 32110
I notice the minute hand jumped on yours when pulling out the crown, as on mine which also jumped when pushing the crown in thus making it a chore to set the time accurately. IWC told me that this is normal but at this price I wouldn't expect it to be.
When is the follow up video coming?
nice watch, Adrian what is the connection between IWC and a Spitfire? I think i would buy Omega rail master for this price
Hello Adrian! If the Spitfire had the overall appearance of the Mark XVIII (black date window, no patina) I'd buy it tomorrow based on the in-house movement and the sexy red Spitfire on the dial and engraved back. There was a question as to the association to the Spitfire and IWC, saw an in-depth review stating that IWC (and JLC) were contracted by the RAF to supply them with watches based on their specifications. The result is two almost identical watches from two different manufacturers aside from the IWC vs. JLC logos. Would love to see a side by side comparison of the vintage pieces...then compare movements. Thanks for the brief review. I am going to get an IWC...still not sure if Mark XV, XVI or XVIII. Almost 7.5 inch wrist here so I can carry off the XVIII. Looking for that tooly/aviator watch...IWC would be a step up from the Oris and Sinn pieces I have been considering, but worth it imho. Cheers!
Agree with the IWC JLC review from WWII
It's a beautiful watch but for the price I could get a Stowa Flieger and a Tudor BB58 and still have some change left for straps.
I this the Spitfire is a winner!
Completely agree on the date window. I wish this came without it.
Or placed at the 6 o'clock position!
You are the best in the game - keep it up brother, cheers.
Just bought brand new for $3450...picking up in a week. Let me know if y’all have any questions...will reply once I have my hands on it
Just received, larger than anticipated, still fits well. Had the leather strap on hand which I prefer, throughout the course of the day, my contentment at the watch has grown immensely - SO legible and such an inviting dial.
Thank you for another great video during these sad times (puts a smile on our faces). I was very lucky to pick up a IWC Spitfire Perpetual Calendar Bronze Limited to 250 world wide. I can not take if of my wrist it is such an amazing watch. I have put a crocodile camouflage strap on it and it has taken it to another level. I can not wait for you to do a video on the IWC Perpetual Calendar. Take care and be safe with your loved ones.
Stunning piece you got there my friend, you get my attention 👍🏼👍🏼great price point, for this magnificent piece, Congrats on this beauty...
@Nigel Molesworth well my friend if you have money this is not issue great piece to have...
A watch that looks like a watch but it wasn't, it was a priceless piece likes a portrait painting from a famous artist.
I have the bronze version and it is spectacular. It hasn't left my wrist since I received it about a month ago and the patina is coming along nicely, I can't wait to see how it ages. I do think the date window is a bit distracting as well, but I feel as if the white wheel with black numerals makes the missing '3' less notable (I would prefer it at 6 o'clock though). I picked mine up for $3,900 (it was one month used) and couldn't be more happy.
I do won’t why so many watches have date complications myself, I love my OP39 exactly because I don’t have to worry about setting date every time I put it on
Besides the color the font is another issue with the date number, having a cool font in the dial makes the standard font in the date pop even more
Some sources say that 32110 is once again not a fully in-house movement, but rather a 2892 architecture built by IWC to their specifications
That’s what I’ve read too, but I couldn’t find enough info to be confident about that point.
I hear it is developed by IWC mother company and it has been used by Cartier.
I wish they could either release a blue version of this watch or put the in-house movement in the le Petit Prince
You should check the laureus version. It’s a ceramic case with a blue dial. Looks 👌🏽
the lug to lug is also 50mm? does it notably wear smaller compared to the Mark 18? ... was thinking of selling mmy Mark 18 and getting a Spitfire instead ,,, just because of the size ... worth it?
Love the dial! But the second hand looks a little bit choppy, perhaps because of the 4Hz mvmt? IWC states the 32110 calibre is 28800 vph though, why it is 4Hz then?
Yay, watch content! Great one, Adrian.
Thanks. Is NATO the only strap option or is there leather available?
Think you summed it up perfectly Adrian though I still feel it's £500 more expensive for what it is at least.
What's going on with the second hand at 2:40 ?
The white date wheel is for balancing the dial. I think having a black date wheel would disturb the balance of the dial. The only problem I see is 60m water resistance. I would require at least a 100m water resistance for my tool watch. This is definitely a show stopper for me.
The 39 and 40 versions have the misaligned date window which may be mitigated visually by a black date wheel on a black dial but it’s still there. It’s not corrected until you get down to 36. Even the in-house wasn’t resized to accommodate in the 39. I’d still take the 40 Petit Prince pretty sunburst blue on the gorgeous brown calfskin strap but the date wheel is white and the misalignment would bug me. Nice watches though. If the date isn’t an issue you can’t go far wrong.
Thanks for the vid, Adrian. Will have to disagree about the date wheel colour though - I think it adds balance to to the dial (black might throw it off a bit). Now fussed if the lume was white or aged - it all depends on the design really - but it should be one or the other - looks quite odd. I’ve always thought the Pilot 36 was an underappreciated offering from IWC - equally at home as a dress or sporty type watch. Keep up the great content, hope you and your family stay safe
I just found out yesterday, that there is a 36mm version of this watch. Very fitting. Maybe there is an IWC for me after all.
I've tried it on and I loved it in a lot of ways. However, it always seems like I prefer the idea of IWC to the reality. I wish they'd make their water resistance 100m as standard, like Rolex do. I'm a pilot and I do appreciate that these are designed for aviation, but I'd rather have a watch I don't have to worry about damaging with water (layovers in hotels with pools...).
You should verify this then...
A pilot 200m can chose date or no date.
wrwatches.com/products/san-martin-pilot-mark-18
Never seen a pool anywhere that is 60m deep.
Gooooooood loooooord!!!! I just loooove this watch!!!! Thank you Adrian love this video!!!!
I’m glad I’m not a lone. Thanks for watching buddy. 👍🏻
@@BarkandJack love your contents! Keep going 😉😁😁😁
This is my favorite IWC watch, it's beautiful....I'd love to own one. HATE the double dome sapphire though, why!? I'd swap that out for something different straight away.
Now's probably not the time to be dropping four grand on one though is it!? 😬
There is an above average profit margin factored into some IWC timepieces, this being one. I have collected watches for nearly 20 years now and have never considered adding non vintage IWC to my collection. I have recently purchased a new Doxa 300t sub professional. A far better value purchase than the one above for example.
Thanks for the presentation Adrian. Do you have by any chance the specs on the L2L length on that piece? I wish they would loose the date window and make it 38 mm with a 46mm L2L, that would be a better proportioned watch.
I was originally looking to get one of these when they were first released. I emailed IWC and found out that the lug to lug measurement was 50mm. I tried one on and wanted to love it but these lugs were just too long for me. 38mm with 46 lug to lug I agree would be a better proportioned watch but 39mm with 47 lug to lug would have been excellent - and yes loose the date window.
Is the leather strap on the mark xviii the mocha leather one on your site? It looks lighter. I want to put that on my spitfire
I can't justify that price for the amount of lume of it. I also dislike the date complication and strap. I'll keep my Stowa Flieger Classic for 1/4 of the cost.
Thanks for your review! Do they sell their straps in the US!
“Something off with the date window” it’s because they use smaller diameter date wheel hence the date window isn’t in line with the hour index axis. This mistake happens frequently with other brands as well
This does not make any sense to me. What is the hour index axis other than the centre of the dial? And how can something that turns around it line up with that? Or not?
Bob Martens I wish I can explain it here with a picture. I try to make it simpler, the date window should be positioned outward closer to the bezel so it aligned to the absent 3 o’clock marker. I hope you can visualize it.
@@pechadeh I understand, I think. Do you mean it's too close to the center?
Bob Martens yes
What's the difference in the lug to lug measurement between the Spitfire and the XVIII? Thank you.
Nice looking watch and interesting package on paper. But from the previous comments I get the vibe that IWC have now definitely hit the end of the road in terms of price gauging (TBH - they probably already did this a while ago, when you consider their grey market and used prices)...
It's in house movement, but still ETA based right? So is it really in house? No matter how much they've improved it, it's still not in house. Great watch, just wish there was more transparency.
Yes! I love IWC :)))) if you can't get rolex explorer go and buy this one. its have the same cool factor. when I see on streets person with IWC I want to talk with him or her. its just got that silent drama. cool video. thanks!
Thanks for watching mate. And I agree, this is definitely a contender for the Explorer. 👍🏻
Kyle better made and better looking that a Hamilton. Similar quality to Rolex, granted a Rolex movement is more accurate and stronger, but this has a better power reserve. It’s all down to what you value in a watch.
Glad you mentioned the date wheel issue - cannot unsee which saves me some money. I love the IWC aesthetic and would look to buy one in an airport to save on the VAT. Date wheel needs to be inverted to make sense here I think!
If I’m looking for a watch with this aesthetic I’ll just snag a Hamilton. Cool watch, but I don’t understand the pricing.
karim Neji aesthetically, yes. Mechanically, no.
I might be a bit late but look at the steeldive's or the wrwatches' versions of them, they are great, and way cheaper.
The strap alone is more than a hundred dollars different from Hamilton. There are also many details, such as the leather travel watch box, first-class polishing and brushing, the surface with sapphire glass and anti-reflective coating, and the carefully polished movement, 8 years warranty. If you pick up both, you must like IWC.
You're paying for the brand name. Khaki field is definitely a better buy.
i'll too go with the HAMILTON khaki field manual👍👍
Great review as always but wish you compared to your 36 mm explorer and the current rolex 39mm explorer. How does it fit on the wrist ...does it ware larger or smaller ?
We could have figure that out if he had mentioned the lug to lug measurement
Is there ANY watch out there that's 38mm (or below) and has Coke Bezel + GMT hand!?
I really love the look of a coke bezel but have very petite wrists - 6 inches exactly. The closes thing I could find is the C.W. Ocean One wif the red bezel but I would feel like I'm settling instead of getting what I REALLY WANT if I bought that.
Love the Spitfire, thanks for the video!
Thanks for watching.
Watch is fabulous and l like it very much. Fantastic professional presentation. Unfortunately l cannot effort it.
Great review Adrian, am a bit obsessed with this one right now... 😬
Hi Adrian. Awesome content as always. Would you pick this one over the Omega Railmaster?
Love seeing IWC get some screen time. How you feel about your Explorer is how I feel about my Spitfire Double Chrono. It’s always Rolex or Omega, etc...always reminds me of Ford or Chevy...completely forgetting Dodge. That’s IWC...they’re not for the masses, but those that choose Probus Scaffusia, are fanatical and loyal. Great review!
I like IWC, they are extraordinary watches, let's just hope that IWC returns to the Jeager LeCoultre calibers. ....
What's the reason behind not colour matching the dial and date wheel? Surely it is a small thing to do. To me it feels like buying a black car with a white left fender. Why should I want to do that?
would be helpful if you mentioned the lug to lug :)
black or military green in bronze case??? can't decide
What color is the NATO strap on the the spitfire?
Great channel!
Is it an in-house? I heard you say that is it an ETA movement as well
It's a beautiful watch, it's very simple and yet complex at the same time. I like that there isn't a rotating bezel.
yeaa I like the spitfire because of its proportions, movement, but I agree, the 18's dial is the real winner. tbh, if it were a 38, id like it way more, but 39 is fine
A great watch, really well priced and awesome looks. Add in the history and it’s definitely one for the shortlist
Hmmm, I don't see a 4k watch there. Sorry etc.
No need to apologise, it’s all opinion. Thanks for watching. 👍🏻
sometimes less is more. that why.
@@likeris2 I actually really like that comment, well said.
you need a jewellers loop to see it, but how often are you going to stare at your watch through a jewellers loop. There are Hamilton's for 10th of the price that look pretty much look the same to the naked eye.
Not even remotely.
Hey Adrian, Love your Videos! What are your thoughts on the Tudor North flag ? Cheers Jakob!