Even though it may not seem so at first glance due to differences in size, the similarities between high quality replica wristwatches and automobiles are quite astonishing upon closer examination. Both embarked on their triumphant journey in the 20th century, inspiring engineers and watchmakers to achieve technical excellence by pushing the boundaries of performance. In addition, both symbolize progress and captivate with their perfection of design. This rings particularly true when they are presented as a team, with the luxury replica IWC Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 from IWC Schaffhausen being the latest example.
Released as a tribute to an almost twenty years long partnership with Mercedes-AMG, the special edition comes in two 46.5mm versions clad in unusual cases, one crafted from 18-carat Armor Gold, the other with a ceramic matrix composite (CMC) case that highlight the Swiss tradition manufacture’s prowess in engineering.
Both versions of the Big Pilot’s Watch AMG G 63 are powered by the perfect fake IWC-manufactured 52010 caliber. Parts of the winding system that are subject to particularly high stress are manufactured from virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. Developed by Swiss made replica IWC’s former Technical Director Albert Pellaton during the 1940s, the ingenious self-winding mechanism uses even the smallest movements of the rotor in both directions to build up a power reserve of seven days in two barrels. The movements are visible through tinted sapphire glass back, which feature a Mercedes-Benz star and are reminiscent of the spare wheel cover on the backside of the G-Class.
In addition to the cheap replica IWC Big Pilot’s characteristic power reserve display at 3 o’clock, both new editions feature a small second counter at 9 o’clock. The opposing subdials with external white rings imitate the typical headlights on the front side of the G-Class. The black dials are embossed with a relief-like technical structure inspired by the air intakes of Mercedes-AMG performance cars. Unlike the classic 1:1 super clone IWC Big Pilot’s Watch, which has printed numerals and indices, these special editions feature appliques that have been PVD-coated in black and filled with luminous material.
The starting point for manufacturing a CMC copy watch case is a conventional carbon-fiber reinforced polymer. In a heat treatment called pyrolysis, lasting several days, the polymer matrix is converted to carbon, leaving behind a dense weave of fibers embedded in a porous carbon matrix. Subsequently, silicon crystals are placed on top of the component, and everything is heated in an oven. During this so-called siliconization, silicon is pulled into the cavities and chemically reacts with the carbon, forming a new matrix made of silicon carbide ceramic. After finishing with diamond tools, the CMC cases exhibit a matte black color and a unique structure determined by the fibers, making each piece truly unique.
Pricing for the IWC Ref. IW506201 replica for men is marked at $42,400.