Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon “Le Petit Prince” Returns In Ceramic

IWC Schaffhausen expands its tribute to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s literary legacy with a bold, technical iteration of the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon “Le Petit Prince.” This limited edition, capped at just 100 pieces, introduces a full blue ceramic case for the first time in this line — merging the Maison’s advanced material innovation with one of its most sophisticated calibres.

Blue Ceramic Construction Meets Gold Accents

The IW504901 makes an immediate impression with its 46.50 mm diameter and 16.18 mm thickness. The case is crafted entirely from blue ceramic, a material known for its scratch resistance, low weight, and non-metallic luster. While its dimensions remain firmly in Big Pilot territory, the dark matte finish tones down the visual heft, aided by refined details such as an 18k 5N gold screw-down crown and matching caseback ring.

Refined and Functional Dial Layout

Set beneath a sapphire crystal, the dial features a rich sunray blue finish — a signature of the “Le Petit Prince” editions. This version opts for more contemporary applied numerals with rounded profiles, contributing to a sleeker and more technical look. Luminescent markers enhance legibility, and the familiar propeller-shaped gold hands return with strong presence.

At 12 o’clock, the flying tourbillon is the visual centerpiece, integrating high complication with aesthetic symmetry. The tourbillon’s rotating cage, which weighs just 0.635 grams and consists of 82 components, effectively compensates for the effects of gravity on timekeeping precision.

In-House Calibre 51950 With 7-Day Power Reserve

Powering this watch is the IWC-manufactured calibre 51950, an automatic movement boasting a full week of autonomy (168 hours) on a single wind. The movement operates at 19,800 vibrations per hour and features a rotor crafted from solid 18k gold, sculpted with a silhouette of the Little Prince.

This calibre incorporates the renowned perpetual calendar module developed by IWC’s Kurt Klaus, capable of accounting for leap years and the varying lengths of months until the year 2100. The moon phase display, positioned at 9 o’clock, showcases the Little Prince standing on his asteroid — and is so precise it will deviate by only one day after 577.5 years. The calendar functions are presented across three subdials, along with a four-digit year indication.

Strap and Availability

The watch is paired with a textured blue rubber strap to complement the ceramic case. An 18k 5N gold folding clasp secures the piece on the wrist, balancing durability with luxurious detail.

The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon “Le Petit Prince” IW504901 is limited to 100 individually numbered pieces. Price: CHF 100,000.

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General Specifications:

Brand: IWC

Model: Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Le Petit Prince

Reference: IW504901

Dial: Blue

Lume: Super-LumiNova

Case Material: Blue ceramic

Case Dimensions: 46.50 mm Diameter, 16.18 mm thickness

Crystal: Sapphire Glass

Case Back: Sapphire Glass

Water Resistance: 100 Meters

Strap: Blue rubber strap with a 18k 5N rose gold folding clasp

Calibre: 51950

Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, small seconds, day, date, month, year, power reserve indicator, moon phase, flying tourbillon

Winding: Automatic

Frequency: 2,75 Hz (19,800 Vph)

Jewels: 54

Power Reserve: 168 Hours

Price: CHF 100,000

Limited Edition: Yes, 100 pieces