Founded in 1868, IWC Schaffhausen is recognized for its ability to combine Swiss engineering precision with clean, functional design, often inspired by the world of aviation and professional instrumentation. For over a century, the Pilot's collection has been one of the brand's cornerstones, with models designed to be reliable, legible, and durable in all conditions.
The Mark XVIII “Antoine de Saint Exupéry” fully embodies this tradition, but adds a narrative dimension to it: it is a discreet yet profound tribute to one of the most emblematic aviators of the 20th century, author of theThe Little Princeand a symbol of a flight that reaches beyond the sky. In this model, IWC combines technical spirit and poetry with balance and restraint, transforming a classic pilot's instrument into an elegant and meaningful tribute.
A refined tribute to aviation heritage and literary memory, the IWC Pilot's Watch Mark XVIII Edition “Antoine de Saint Exupéry” (Ref. IW327004) combines functional design and silent storytelling. Created as part of the historic collaboration between IWC and the Saint Exupéry Foundation, this timepiece pays homage to the celebrated French aviator and writer, author ofThe Little Prince, a figure who was able to embody at the same time the spirit of adventure and the depth of thought.
The model follows the proven lines of the Mark XVIII, a direct descendant of the iconic Mark 11 worn by military pilots. This edition's distinguishing feature is its warm tobacco brown sunray dial, reminiscent of the leather jackets worn by vintage aviators and reflecting Saint Exupéry's understated, timeless style.
The large, luminescent Arabic numerals ensure excellent readability even in low-light conditions, while the classic triangle with two dots at 12 o'clock—a hallmark of pilot's watches—visually anchors the dial. The discreet date display sits at 3 o'clock, perfectly integrated into the design.
The 40 mm stainless steel case fits comfortably on most wrists, combining robustness and understated elegance. It is powered by the IWC caliber 30110, a reliable automatic movement based on the ETA 2892-A2, with a 42-hour power reserve. The movement is protected by a soft-iron inner case for resistance to magnetic fields—a true nod to professional flight instruments.
The watch is completed with a brown calfskin strap with contrasting white stitching, made by Santoni, and closed with a classic pin buckle, which gives an understated, almost vintage character to an otherwise functional aesthetic.
Produced in a special edition, the Mark XVIII “Antoine de Saint Exupéry” features the writer's name engraved on the caseback, alongside the profile of his iconic Lockheed P-38 Lightning aircraft. It's not just a pilot's watch, but a silent tribute to a man who transformed flight into poetry.
