I bought this watch and I really loved it. The quality, the design and the on the fly bracelet really appealed to me. Unfortunately for the price it wasn’t very accurate so it went back. I stopped wearing it for three days before I returned it and it was still running. I was really disappointed and replaced it with an Omega white dial Seamaster. One second a day for a thousand dollars less.
I love the watches that Bruce selects to review. You have the best eye for watches that so many of us want to see more of. I could not ask for a better watch channel to follow. I don’t mind watching a few micro brands here and there but so many channels use microbrands to just churn out content. That can gets old. I always know that if Bruce decided to review a watch it is well worth my time to stop and view the video.
IWC needs to step up to COSC certification. They are pretty, apparently well made, etc. However, for six grand a potential buyer should get some assurance that it will keep time better than a 7S26.
COSC is foolish. These are mechanical movements. They are all obsolete mechanisms redefined as art. If you believe any mechanical movement is “high technology,” then you are really, really susceptible to marketing. If you want an accurate watch, buy Quartz or an Apple Watch. Mechanical watches will always be inferior. That is not their appeal.
@@BruceWilliams Adjusted to what? At this price point, it should adhere to an independent standard. Even Tudor is METAS certified, and CW is COSC certified with watches less than half this price.
Just got the black version on a bracelet. I don't love the way the second link meets the third, but it's doable. The watch is built like a tank and it looks awesome on my 7.25 inch wrist!
They've tweaked the basic Pilot watch pattern to perfection with the Mark XX. It's the nicest Pilot watch out there. It's also overpriced for what it is. But very nice. That being said, I still vastly prefer the Explorer.
Nice review Bruce. I have the Mark XViii. Do you think this watch is worth upgrading from my Mark XViii? I love the new in house movement and the higher polish to give it a more upscale look. I had the Explorer 214270, this watch certainly looks better to me.
Imo when it comes to luxury watches, no watch is better than another. Its about what you like most, so in this case i would pick the mark xx over the rolex explorer. The problem i find with rolex is that there is no exclusivity, they are everywhere.
It looks great, and the mouvement is great. Also great features on bracelet. Still I can't pull the trigger, because I've Sinn, Laco, they are offering same aesthitic for less price, I would be another thing if IWC Mark XX had applied markers, may be it's just me but at certain price point printed dial just scream cheap at my face. I've not enough attachement to the brand to pay a premium for this, could only go for grey or used on this model. Anyway great video, macros are superb !
The Mark XV at 38mm is a better comp to the Rolex explorer imo. Not just because of the closer size comparison, but also in terms of utility and understated luxury.
Bruce, great vid! I own the newest model Big Pilot (46), the Top Gun Chrono (44), Yacht Club Portugusier (45), and recently got the Mark 18 in the blue dial wi the blue rubber strap and deployant. Though it isn't the first three, it serves a wonderful purpose as a light, comfortable, stylish travel watch. I would recommend highly for entry-level newcomers to the IWC Pilot's line, or for anyone wanted a good "Luxury Beater", that still says "Just because I'm in a pool, on vacation, on the golf course, wtvr, doesn't mean I don't want my watch style with me"
This is the most underrated awesome watch out there. The strap change system is ingenious and the bracelet is fantastic. I've been wearing mine as my daily for a year now. It's the most versatile watch I've ever experienced - looks good on bracelet, leather strap, nato, or rubber. You can wear it in all settings.
@@BruceWilliams almost getting NOMOS Club Campus Neomatik vibes from this IWC. Would be nice if there was an exhibition case back on this one but still impressive green dial, 5 day power reserves, and history.
IWC is the king of green, especially pilots watches! I get more compliments on my iwc pilots chronograph 41 in green than any other watches in my collection. Bought it on the brown leather strap and recently stuck it on the green rubber and both configurations are absolutely killer. As for being an explorer beater...I'd argue no. Less lume and water resistance. It's a pilots watch not a field watch. Different use cases between the two.
Two comments: 1. This looks much better in your video than it does on the website. The website stock image is lifeless and dull. Your video brings out the pop. 2. Nothing is a Rolex killer. Rolex is a marketing machine. There's nothing specific I can tell about their watches that is better, but their marketing has us convinced they are the end game. For anything to be a "Rolex X killer" would imply that someone has come up with superior marketing and I just don't see that happening - I mean, Rolex doesn't even have to market, we do it for them! 🙂
Great rundown of a fantastic watch! But after watching, this left me with one giant curiosity... do you still have the Chrono 41, and how do you feel about it 2 years later, and after getting to be hands on with so many other watches?
Bought the green. The bracelet, classic IWC style, and excellent movement all pile up to one great piece. I will say that with the polished centers and bezel it is quite dressy, pretty. I feel like the Explorer (39, 40) is more manly and robust looking, sporty. With the Rolex you get a bit higher level fit and finish, white gold bits, and a truly in house all the way watch. They're both really good.
I have been looking for a luxury Watch under 7k and i am deciding between a mark xx in white dial and bracelet or a aquaterra black in rubber strap. Currently i own a carrera blue dial, hamilton khaki field black and prx blue dial. Any thoughts on both watches?
They are finding their way back with the Mark Series, though I am not convinced the XX is better than the XVI (the last of the earlier good ones). While the XX bracelet tapers and has micro adjust, it has lost the elegance of the XVI's clasp. But still a lovely watch and I do love the green dial.
It's on my wishlist, i was thinking the mark xx or pro pilot chronograph 41mm, but the pro pilot was let down by its thickness. Last option would be a breitling navitimer chronograph. If get lucky im might go for IWC black ace
Great review Bruce. I agree that IWC has one of the best green dials on the market - I don't have the Mark XX but I have another IWC in green and the dial simply pops. And, as you mentioned, the bracelet is very comfortable and easy to adjust on the fly - also one of the best on the market imo.
It’s a great style, quality, bracelet, and color. My problem being a dial guy is that the dial is underwhelming. The number, minute, and hour markers all look like stickers. The dial on your Rolex was stunning in comparison. I hate to be that critical guy but there’s my two cents.
It's not the Mark XX that's a value proposition vs. the Ingenieur, having the same movement. It's the Ingenieur that is excessively expensive. Especially with the Brogioli quick adjustment clasp that is miles better on the Mark XX. To your question: yes, I would pick this over an Explorer. Hands down.
Things that IWC does best in Pilots: 1.) Bracelet fit, quality and finish 2.) EasXchange straps and bracelet (Options) 3.) Level of sunburst dial quality finish 4.) AR coating is the best in class, inner and outer 5.) Caliber 32 is manufactured in house with a 120 hour or 5 day power reserve 6.) Rhodium plated hands quality 7.) IWC history in watchmaking and innovation especially in Perpetual Calendars with single crown adjustment via Kurt Claus. 8.) MicroAdjust being hidden in logo in clasp where you don’t have to remove the watch to microadjust on the wrist. 9.) Top notch history in making Quality Pilot Watches so you know they will be around down the road vs a newer brand. 10.) Easier to resell if you decide to later.
@@MeestroDavid I hear this rumor from many many years ago that used to be true still circulating but for years now since IWC built its new manufacturing facility in 2018 that’s about 14,000 square meters they produce the majority of their collections and movements entirely in house. You can even sign up for a virtual tour there or a walk through in person tour. Hopefully this helps 👍
I like it but with a black dial. I'm just not feeling it in blue or green sunburst? It's a great color for people who like blue or green dial watches. However, if I did like color dials, why can't IWC offer this in a matte army green or a matte navy blue dial. These are pilot/somewhat field watches. No need to sunburst dials IMO. Just adds to the glare and takes away from that utility aesthetic from the watch
Not even close.... The Explorer, stored, white gold hands and indices, lumed second hand, comfortable bracelet, insanely accurate (mine loses less than a sevo d a day) amazing lume..... I could go on
Love the Mark XX... I do however wish they'd add lume to all hour markers, similar to the new Big Pilot. Also good note on the way the bracelet drops down on the end-links... that might be very uncomfortable on my 8-1/4" wrist.
@@BruceWilliams thanks. Since I don't have an IWC dealer here in Tulsa OK, I'll likely pass on one of these... and maybe look at the Big Pilot 43 or Chrono 41 if I decide to dip into the IWC game.
Great review Bruce! I have really enjoyed mine! For me, it really is the go anywhere, do anything watch. Looks just as good on the bracelet in the board room or out on a hike on the rubber strap. I'm going to try a cool leather strap soon. Thanks for the review as always!
I’ve owed this watch and the Rolex Explorer and the IWC is no where near the refinement or quality of the Explorer. The dimensions of the IWC are excellent as is the dial but there are many problems unfortunately. Mine was gaining 30 seconds a day and it had the well known jumping second hand when you pulled the crown out. The lume is also terrible and the bracelet was my size out of the box so if your wrist is large it won’t fit. The bracelet doesn’t go very well with the watch head too. It’s a pilots watch that was originally designed to go on a strap or a nato so the non taper bracelet looks wrong to many people.
Having owned this watch and explorer, AT, and Seamaster, etc., the mark 20 is really exceptional! The finishing is beautiful, proportions, awesome, and the bracelet is the best I’ve worn with you on the fly adjustments that you don’t even need to take the watch off for
here is a big problem: It is claimed to be a pilot watch...and they ran out of lume and could not properly lume the dial. Why is it that rolex can do that, on their 36mm explorer and IWC can't?? Is the $2 for lume too much?
well may not agree with its better than R" ,by making it green still doesn't has the same kind of R' classic green which had been used in years . Rather this bright green reflect more trendy fashion brand watch .Just my cents
The lamb on the watch doesn’t last very long. They don’t use good loom on the IWC. Also, the painted dial looks cheap. Applied markers always look better. And yes, I have an IWC pilots watch, but I don’t wear it very much because it is boring.
I like it but I don’t think it’s better than the explorer or Omega AT. I like the bracelet and the clasp but the blend into the lugs isn’t that great (at this price point) and the dial really suffers from cost cutting. Applied indices would be a huge improvement. This is no where close to my 2009 explorer…even with the two generation older bracelet.
Green is beautiful but applied indices would take this to the next level and needed at this price point. The printing is nice but very very basic. A Tudor ranger or Longines Spirit is better value imo.
@@BFit25 I feel like it is. Tudor Ranger has 70 hrs power reserve, on the fly adjustment and is COSC. You can also buy it for low 2ks in the gray market. Only thing I like more of the IWC is the dial color. It’s just a very basic watch for 6k.
Thanks Bruce. Great content as always. I like the watch very much and bought black. I tried the longer straps and the way the buckle holes are positioned on the larger you end up with the same fit but have a lot of slack if that makes sense. On your Explorer question, the ques
When a date window is replacing a number, it should be in the same place as the number, and close to the same size. They got the proportions wrong on this one. Earlier IWCs did this better.
@BruceWilliams You should see if you can talk IWC into a collab with the channel. A no-date Pilot Mark XX with lume on all the numbers ... just like it should be. I'd sign up for a blue dial version of that.
Love this watch. I think it’s one of the only watches I can think of where I’d actually buy it on the leather strap instead of the bracelet. The value is insane at that price and it will be a total strap monster anyway.
If you don’t already own a Rolex, the Explorer is an excellent choice to start your collection. However, if you do, consider the XX-unless, of course, you’re aiming to be a full-fledged Rolex fanboy.
The review gets a few things wrong and ignores some major flaws: it is NOT an in-house movement, it’s an off-the-shelf ValFluerier that can be had in much cheaper watches and it has a known engineering flaw where the minute-hand jumps when the crown is pushed in or pulled out. It is no longer anti-magnetic as the soft-iron cage was removed on the XX. The easexchange system doesn’t work with anything but other IWC easexchange straps, which are stiffer than the old Santino straps and wear quickly at the lugs. If you want to use any other straps, you need to remove the spring bars. And then there’s the matter of wearing a fleiger with Hitler’s own transport plane stamped on the case back. Not a good look.
No certified accuracy, one barrel movement for 5 days of power reserve (seriously?), no protection against magnetic fields. A superb bracelet and a nice dial are not enough to justify that price. Hardly a modern pilot's watch.
@@A.T.148-Scot-HK unfortunately it's not. The spitfire has the inner cage, while the Mark XX hasn't got one. Here's the aswer from IWC Service to my specific request about the accuracy and the magnetic field protection of the watch: "I would like to share information regarding your request: - The reference IW328204 is not provided of a soft inner cage to protect against the magnetic fields, and the movement is not anti-magnetic. - The accuracy rate for this watch is 0/+ 7 sec per 24 hours, in accordance to our Maison standards." Note that the stated accuracy is valid just for the first 24h, but the power reserve is FIVE days long.
@@andreaappiani7799 yes buddy useless movement, with useless accuracy, with useless power reserve if it doesn't keeps good time for more than 24 hours, also 0/+7 seconds for 24 hours is worst accuracy for the price point
It would be if one would do anything g to not have “Rolex” on the dial. Rolex is great if one’s goal is to impress. In many situations it is easier to wear anything but a Rolex.
It is a nice watch, but I disagree that it's value for money. It's basically in the same price bracket as the Aqua Terra, which looks far more luxurious.
def prefer the mark xii, if one is scared of the 36mm dimension the mark xv is also great. 40mm on this type of watch just looks too big. the sub/GMT/ explor ii should be larger than the explorer, datejust, day date, or mark xx.
I take it Rolex has to be more expensive because their marketing budget must be so much more than IWC. If you compare actual watch vs watch- strip both of their labels would IWC be just as good - the same way people need to have a LV bag or many high priced luxury items - how much of it is marketing that creates the brand and image vs. the actual quality of the item?
Must have found the tiny wrist comment section based on all the "it's too big" comments. It's not a big watch, very thin, and the dial layout has very nice proportions, it wears extremely well on a wrist 16cm or larger. Don't be afraid to try it on if you're only a keyboard warrior who looks at photos online, the mark xx is even nicer in person - by a lot!
Another great video! One thing that may be another drawback of the watch I think would be the AR coating on the outside of the sapphire crystal. Kind of a scratch magnet sometimes.
That is no comparable. My Longines Zulu Time is half it's price but win in outlook, accuracy , function and the Lump. But the name is different. IWC XX is compare to Rolex explore as the host said. And I agreed with him. p.s. I agreed Longines Spriit Titanium is a good watch.
Beautiful watch, but way overpriced. Plus, there are QC issues with the movement. IWC is not on par with JLC, Rolex, Omega, so why are they pricing their products like they are?
Bad ARC is indeed a make a break point. Rolex has bad or no ARC, that's why I never bought one. The explorer has a nice dial, but it always looks foggy.
The Mark XX on bracelet is one of the best value propositions on the grey market.
Best bracelet in the industry
I own the XX in blue. Absolutely think it’s as perfect as a watch there is…for me. Worth every penny. Great video!
I appreciate it
I have the blue as well, paired it with the brown leather strap.
Do you have the hand jumping issue when setting it?
In the beginning, though you learn to push the crown in slowly after you set the time and then it doesn’t happen.
I bought this watch and I really loved it. The quality, the design and the on the fly bracelet really appealed to me. Unfortunately for the price it wasn’t very accurate so it went back. I stopped wearing it for three days before I returned it and it was still running. I was really disappointed and replaced it with an Omega white dial Seamaster. One second a day for a thousand dollars less.
How inaccurate?
@@beerkegaard My one was gaining 11 seconds a day. I suppose I could have got it regulated but by then the magic had gone.
I have both and wear this more often!
I’m partial to green dial watches, but the shade that IWC uses just makes me think of Heineken cans.
I love the watches that Bruce selects to review. You have the best eye for watches that so many of us want to see more of. I could not ask for a better watch channel to follow. I don’t mind watching a few micro brands here and there but so many channels use microbrands to just churn out content. That can gets old. I always know that if Bruce decided to review a watch it is well worth my time to stop and view the video.
Wow, that is really nice to hear. Thank you! I will continue to try and improve my content.
IWC needs to step up to COSC certification. They are pretty, apparently well made, etc. However, for six grand a potential buyer should get some assurance that it will keep time better than a 7S26.
5 position adjusted doesn't do it for you?
COSC is foolish. These are mechanical movements. They are all obsolete mechanisms redefined as art. If you believe any mechanical movement is “high technology,” then you are really, really susceptible to marketing.
If you want an accurate watch, buy Quartz or an Apple Watch. Mechanical watches will always be inferior. That is not their appeal.
My Mark XX and my 12 year old Portugisier are within METAS range. Both are +1/day at worst.
@@BruceWilliams Adjusted to what? At this price point, it should adhere to an independent standard. Even Tudor is METAS certified, and CW is COSC certified with watches less than half this price.
@@saodavi6267so according to you Patek Phillippe’s movements are over priced as well because they are not certified.
Just got the black version on a bracelet. I don't love the way the second link meets the third, but it's doable. The watch is built like a tank and it looks awesome on my 7.25 inch wrist!
Good video Bruce. Thank you. I liked the insight on the links and how it wears on larger wrists.
They've tweaked the basic Pilot watch pattern to perfection with the Mark XX. It's the nicest Pilot watch out there. It's also overpriced for what it is. But very nice. That being said, I still vastly prefer the Explorer.
Nice review Bruce. I have the Mark XViii. Do you think this watch is worth upgrading from my Mark XViii? I love the new in house movement and the higher polish to give it a more upscale look. I had the Explorer 214270, this watch certainly looks better to me.
Imo when it comes to luxury watches, no watch is better than another. Its about what you like most, so in this case i would pick the mark xx over the rolex explorer. The problem i find with rolex is that there is no exclusivity, they are everywhere.
Definitely an excellent watch, I think IWC it’s a must in every enthusiast watch collection!
It looks great, and the mouvement is great. Also great features on bracelet. Still I can't pull the trigger, because I've Sinn, Laco, they are offering same aesthitic for less price, I would be another thing if IWC Mark XX had applied markers, may be it's just me but at certain price point printed dial just scream cheap at my face. I've not enough attachement to the brand to pay a premium for this, could only go for grey or used on this model. Anyway great video, macros are superb !
Perfect one watch collection 🔥
The Mark XV at 38mm is a better comp to the Rolex explorer imo. Not just because of the closer size comparison, but also in terms of utility and understated luxury.
Bruce, great vid! I own the newest model Big Pilot (46), the Top Gun Chrono (44), Yacht Club Portugusier (45), and recently got the Mark 18 in the blue dial wi the blue rubber strap and deployant. Though it isn't the first three, it serves a wonderful purpose as a light, comfortable, stylish travel watch. I would recommend highly for entry-level newcomers to the IWC Pilot's line, or for anyone wanted a good "Luxury Beater", that still says "Just because I'm in a pool, on vacation, on the golf course, wtvr, doesn't mean I don't want my watch style with me"
Well said!
such a beautiful watch. Pure class
IWC is probably one of my favourite watch brands atm. Also this particular model is one of my favourite watches of all time.
The same movement with Cosc added is available on Baume & Mercier for much cheaper
And I would pick this Mark XX 10 out of 10 times over a Baume & Mercier
This is the most underrated awesome watch out there. The strap change system is ingenious and the bracelet is fantastic. I've been wearing mine as my daily for a year now. It's the most versatile watch I've ever experienced - looks good on bracelet, leather strap, nato, or rubber. You can wear it in all settings.
Great comment
That green dial is incredible! 💚
Such a great green. Gives the Hulk a run for its money
@@BruceWilliams almost getting NOMOS Club Campus Neomatik vibes from this IWC. Would be nice if there was an exhibition case back on this one but still impressive green dial, 5 day power reserves, and history.
Agreed, the Green win a lot of marks.
I ve owned both watches. I think IWC Mark XX is definitely better and more interesting watch than Rolex Explorer.
IWC is the king of green, especially pilots watches! I get more compliments on my iwc pilots chronograph 41 in green than any other watches in my collection. Bought it on the brown leather strap and recently stuck it on the green rubber and both configurations are absolutely killer. As for being an explorer beater...I'd argue no. Less lume and water resistance. It's a pilots watch not a field watch. Different use cases between the two.
Two comments: 1. This looks much better in your video than it does on the website. The website stock image is lifeless and dull. Your video brings out the pop.
2. Nothing is a Rolex killer. Rolex is a marketing machine. There's nothing specific I can tell about their watches that is better, but their marketing has us convinced they are the end game. For anything to be a "Rolex X killer" would imply that someone has come up with superior marketing and I just don't see that happening - I mean, Rolex doesn't even have to market, we do it for them! 🙂
Great rundown of a fantastic watch! But after watching, this left me with one giant curiosity... do you still have the Chrono 41, and how do you feel about it 2 years later, and after getting to be hands on with so many other watches?
Bought the green. The bracelet, classic IWC style, and excellent movement all pile up to one great piece. I will say that with the polished centers and bezel it is quite dressy, pretty. I feel like the Explorer (39, 40) is more manly and robust looking, sporty. With the Rolex you get a bit higher level fit and finish, white gold bits, and a truly in house all the way watch. They're both really good.
We have such similar watch taste haha
@@BruceWilliams ha ha... absolutely 💯 👊
Purchased the silver white dial on bracelet about a month ago ago absolutely love the watch but would still add an explorer to the collection
I'm currently saving for this one.
Such a great shade of green!!!!
How can such a simple watch look so good?
If it's an Explorer
So good
Iwc make simple watches look amazing
This is a BANGER
That bracelet and strap quick change is cool without removing the spring bars, also that quick adjust us bad ass.
Super easy to use
I have been looking for a luxury Watch under 7k and i am deciding between a mark xx in white dial and bracelet or a aquaterra black in rubber strap. Currently i own a carrera blue dial, hamilton khaki field black and prx blue dial. Any thoughts on both watches?
They are finding their way back with the Mark Series, though I am not convinced the XX is better than the XVI (the last of the earlier good ones). While the XX bracelet tapers and has micro adjust, it has lost the elegance of the XVI's clasp. But still a lovely watch and I do love the green dial.
It's on my wishlist, i was thinking the mark xx or pro pilot chronograph 41mm, but the pro pilot was let down by its thickness. Last option would be a breitling navitimer chronograph.
If get lucky im might go for IWC black ace
I have the blue version and it lives on the NATO straps. Such a comfortable piece.
Great review Bruce. I agree that IWC has one of the best green dials on the market - I don't have the Mark XX but I have another IWC in green and the dial simply pops. And, as you mentioned, the bracelet is very comfortable and easy to adjust on the fly - also one of the best on the market imo.
I’d love to try a blue dial version some day.
It’s a great style, quality, bracelet, and color. My problem being a dial guy is that the dial is underwhelming. The number, minute, and hour markers all look like stickers. The dial on your Rolex was stunning in comparison. I hate to be that critical guy but there’s my two cents.
It's not the Mark XX that's a value proposition vs. the Ingenieur, having the same movement. It's the Ingenieur that is excessively expensive. Especially with the Brogioli quick adjustment clasp that is miles better on the Mark XX. To your question: yes, I would pick this over an Explorer. Hands down.
Things that IWC does best in Pilots:
1.) Bracelet fit, quality and finish
2.) EasXchange straps and bracelet (Options)
3.) Level of sunburst dial quality finish
4.) AR coating is the best in class, inner and outer
5.) Caliber 32 is manufactured in house with a 120 hour or 5 day power reserve
6.) Rhodium plated hands quality
7.) IWC history in watchmaking and innovation especially in Perpetual Calendars with single crown adjustment via Kurt Claus.
8.) MicroAdjust being hidden in logo in clasp where you don’t have to remove the watch to microadjust on the wrist.
9.) Top notch history in making Quality Pilot Watches so you know they will be around down the road vs a newer brand.
10.) Easier to resell if you decide to later.
That movement is not manufactured in house, despite IWC’s marketing claims. It’s a ValFluerier movement and a dodgy one at that
@@MeestroDavid I hear this rumor from many many years ago that used to be true still circulating but for years now since IWC built its new manufacturing facility in 2018 that’s about 14,000 square meters they produce the majority of their collections and movements entirely in house. You can even sign up for a virtual tour there or a walk through in person tour. Hopefully this helps 👍
Well said
I like it but with a black dial. I'm just not feeling it in blue or green sunburst? It's a great color for people who like blue or green dial watches. However, if I did like color dials, why can't IWC offer this in a matte army green or a matte navy blue dial. These are pilot/somewhat field watches. No need to sunburst dials IMO. Just adds to the glare and takes away from that utility aesthetic from the watch
This is one of the very few IWC that appeals to me.
Agree on the lume. It's terrible. Should have the same lume as the Big Pilot.
Not even close.... The Explorer, stored, white gold hands and indices, lumed second hand, comfortable bracelet, insanely accurate (mine loses less than a sevo d a day) amazing lume..... I could go on
Love the Mark XX... I do however wish they'd add lume to all hour markers, similar to the new Big Pilot. Also good note on the way the bracelet drops down on the end-links... that might be very uncomfortable on my 8-1/4" wrist.
Yeah I think it would be a dealbreaker
@@BruceWilliams thanks. Since I don't have an IWC dealer here in Tulsa OK, I'll likely pass on one of these... and maybe look at the Big Pilot 43 or Chrono 41 if I decide to dip into the IWC game.
The first time I think that IWC XX is a beautiful watch.
Is that an oem green iwc rubber strap? Does it come in black?
Great review Bruce! I have really enjoyed mine! For me, it really is the go anywhere, do anything watch. Looks just as good on the bracelet in the board room or out on a hike on the rubber strap. I'm going to try a cool leather strap soon. Thanks for the review as always!
I’ve owed this watch and the Rolex Explorer and the IWC is no where near the refinement or quality of the Explorer. The dimensions of the IWC are excellent as is the dial but there are many problems unfortunately. Mine was gaining 30 seconds a day and it had the well known jumping second hand when you pulled the crown out. The lume is also terrible and the bracelet was my size out of the box so if your wrist is large it won’t fit. The bracelet doesn’t go very well with the watch head too. It’s a pilots watch that was originally designed to go on a strap or a nato so the non taper bracelet looks wrong to many people.
Nice watch but too expensive, like all watches of this brand, IMO.
like all watches period lol
Was this the olive strap or the green strap?
Having owned this watch and explorer, AT, and Seamaster, etc., the mark 20 is really exceptional! The finishing is beautiful, proportions, awesome, and the bracelet is the best I’ve worn with you on the fly adjustments that you don’t even need to take the watch off for
here is a big problem: It is claimed to be a pilot watch...and they ran out of lume and could not properly lume the dial. Why is it that rolex can do that, on their 36mm explorer and IWC can't?? Is the $2 for lume too much?
It's a design choice
Pilot watches have little lume. BW just warned the Explorer comparison in the tittle to get more views
Yes. Visually and haptically,at least.
Yo why you call it “type 20”?
Nice looking watch 👍🏼
I'm not sure if the AR coating used in the XX is of the best quality. It has a very obvious glare and the blue tint is jarring to say the least.
well may not agree with its better than R" ,by making it green still doesn't has the same kind of R' classic green which had been used in years . Rather this bright green reflect more trendy fashion brand watch .Just my cents
Absolutely stunning 💚💚💚💚💚
The day date comparison lol, Bruce does love a humblebrag 😂
Gotta compare to what I wear lol
For the price difference I would get the Rolex
I think it’ll look better without the date complication.
The lamb on the watch doesn’t last very long. They don’t use good loom on the IWC. Also, the painted dial looks cheap. Applied markers always look better. And yes, I have an IWC pilots watch, but I don’t wear it very much because it is boring.
I like it but I don’t think it’s better than the explorer or Omega AT. I like the bracelet and the clasp but the blend into the lugs isn’t that great (at this price point) and the dial really suffers from cost cutting. Applied indices would be a huge improvement. This is no where close to my 2009 explorer…even with the two generation older bracelet.
Green is beautiful but applied indices would take this to the next level and needed at this price point. The printing is nice but very very basic. A Tudor ranger or Longines Spirit is better value imo.
A ranger ? That’s a stretch.
@@BFit25 I feel like it is. Tudor Ranger has 70 hrs power reserve, on the fly adjustment and is COSC. You can also buy it for low 2ks in the gray market. Only thing I like more of the IWC is the dial color. It’s just a very basic watch for 6k.
Thanks Bruce. Great content as always. I like the watch very much and bought black. I tried the longer straps and the way the buckle holes are positioned on the larger you end up with the same fit but have a lot of slack if that makes sense. On your Explorer question, the ques
When a date window is replacing a number, it should be in the same place as the number, and close to the same size. They got the proportions wrong on this one. Earlier IWCs did this better.
@BruceWilliams You should see if you can talk IWC into a collab with the channel. A no-date Pilot Mark XX with lume on all the numbers ... just like it should be. I'd sign up for a blue dial version of that.
I would love to design a watch with IWC. Would be a dream come true
I really like the 40. The others are just too big for me. I wish they would put a diamond crown on it though.
Try to stop the watch and then start it. Look at minute hand. It jumps.
Wow so stylish 😮
Love this watch. I think it’s one of the only watches I can think of where I’d actually buy it on the leather strap instead of the bracelet. The value is insane at that price and it will be a total strap monster anyway.
I got mine at 4.2k on a strap but wish I'd paid like 500 more for a bracelet. Either way great prices.
If you don’t already own a Rolex, the Explorer is an excellent choice to start your collection. However, if you do, consider the XX-unless, of course, you’re aiming to be a full-fledged Rolex fanboy.
The review gets a few things wrong and ignores some major flaws: it is NOT an in-house movement, it’s an off-the-shelf ValFluerier that can be had in much cheaper watches and it has a known engineering flaw where the minute-hand jumps when the crown is pushed in or pulled out. It is no longer anti-magnetic as the soft-iron cage was removed on the XX. The easexchange system doesn’t work with anything but other IWC easexchange straps, which are stiffer than the old Santino straps and wear quickly at the lugs. If you want to use any other straps, you need to remove the spring bars. And then there’s the matter of wearing a fleiger with Hitler’s own transport plane stamped on the case back. Not a good look.
No applied markers either. It is a nice looking watch, but it is a 3-3.5k watch max.
No certified accuracy, one barrel movement for 5 days of power reserve (seriously?), no protection against magnetic fields. A superb bracelet and a nice dial are not enough to justify that price. Hardly a modern pilot's watch.
Right? I thought no one would notice this! This watch is just below average.
It is anti-magnetic with soft iron cage. Movement is questionable though. I genuinely prefer the old 2892 base movement.
@@A.T.148-Scot-HK unfortunately it's not. The spitfire has the inner cage, while the Mark XX hasn't got one. Here's the aswer from IWC Service to my specific request about the accuracy and the magnetic field protection of the watch:
"I would like to share information regarding your request:
- The reference IW328204 is not provided of a soft inner cage to protect against the magnetic fields, and the movement is not anti-magnetic.
- The accuracy rate for this watch is 0/+ 7 sec per 24 hours, in accordance to our Maison standards."
Note that the stated accuracy is valid just for the first 24h, but the power reserve is FIVE days long.
@@andreaappiani7799 yes buddy useless movement, with useless accuracy, with useless power reserve if it doesn't keeps good time for more than 24 hours, also 0/+7 seconds for 24 hours is worst accuracy for the price point
The lack of lume has always been an odd choice for a Pilots Watch with the mark series.
It’s very nice but no Rolex Explorer beater
It would be if one would do anything g to not have “Rolex” on the dial. Rolex is great if one’s goal is to impress. In many situations it is easier to wear anything but a Rolex.
I love this watch. I think this needs to be my next watch. I have 19.5 cm wrists, so I'll have to see if I have any fit issues.
Big Pilot 43
@@derosa1989 yeah, it's just not the value that the Mark XX is. Plus, I'm not a fan of huge diamond crowns. but who knows? Maybe.
I want to like IWC but every time i go to the AD to handle one, it always feels kind of cheap.
There are affordable options but the design and finishing seem dull on Railmaster and Ranger etc.. this one is just more attractive to me.
It is a nice watch, but I disagree that it's value for money. It's basically in the same price bracket as the Aqua Terra, which looks far more luxurious.
They seem to be more ‘handmade’ which adds value in my mind, over the mostly robot’s that assemble omega and Rolex.
def prefer the mark xii, if one is scared of the 36mm dimension the mark xv is also great. 40mm on this type of watch just looks too big. the sub/GMT/ explor ii should be larger than the explorer, datejust, day date, or mark xx.
This is good, omega railmaster is better, better lume, more wr, better movement with metas certification
I take it Rolex has to be more expensive because their marketing budget must be so much more than IWC. If you compare actual watch vs watch- strip both of their labels would IWC be just as good - the same way people need to have a LV bag or many high priced luxury items - how much of it is marketing that creates the brand and image vs. the actual quality of the item?
Must have found the tiny wrist comment section based on all the "it's too big" comments. It's not a big watch, very thin, and the dial layout has very nice proportions, it wears extremely well on a wrist 16cm or larger. Don't be afraid to try it on if you're only a keyboard warrior who looks at photos online, the mark xx is even nicer in person - by a lot!
Another great video! One thing that may be another drawback of the watch I think would be the AR coating on the outside of the sapphire crystal. Kind of a scratch magnet sometimes.
Good watch but not better than Longines Spirit Titanium 40mm...
That is no comparable. My Longines Zulu Time is half it's price but win in outlook, accuracy , function and the Lump. But the name is different.
IWC XX is compare to Rolex explore as the host said. And I agreed with him.
p.s. I agreed Longines Spriit Titanium is a good watch.
@@tschoy9388 I prefer IWC Spitfire BTW
Looking at it I thought the numbers would have lume. I disappointed
The date throws it off for me.
What a beautiful watch! 💯
Completely agree
Beautiful. But why is it so much pricier than i.e. a Laco Flieger Pro?
Much nicer watch
A beautiful piece
I would say not better than a Rolex Explorer.........but Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra is better than both
"Same movement than in double price Ingenieur, speaks about value" well actually you can find the same mouvement into a 3000$ Baume & Mercier....
The Addiesdive homage has better lume and only costs 50 bucks.
Beautiful watch, but way overpriced. Plus, there are QC issues with the movement. IWC is not on par with JLC, Rolex, Omega, so why are they pricing their products like they are?
Perfectly said
Bad ARC is indeed a make a break point. Rolex has bad or no ARC, that's why I never bought one. The explorer has a nice dial, but it always looks foggy.
That crown looks like it's digging right into your wrist...is it not??