IWC Launches a Big Pilot Shock Absorber XPL for AMG’s Toto Wolff

As we’re gearing up for the 2025 Formula One season, which has recently changed its official timekeeper, we’ve started to see some F1-dedicated watches being launched. IWC, the partner of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, already warmed us up with a colourful take on its simplest Pilot’s Watch, the Mark XX AMG Team watch. Now, the brand looks at the opposite side of the spectrum with a Mercedes-AMG-themed version of its experimental Big Pilot, the Shock Absorber XPL reference IW356201 made with team principal Toto Wolff. 

Before we dive into the topic of today’s limited edition watch, let’s quickly talk about the Big Pilot Shock Absorber XPL, as it is something special, which has been the topic of a great story on MONOCHROME. First presented in 2021 under the reference IW357201, the name of the watch says it all. This was the first model to be created by the brand’s “Experimental Engineering Team” (hence the XPL in the name) and it was all about resistance to shocks. And by that, we mean extreme shocks, as the watch was tested to be able to withstand shocks in excess of 30,000G.

The whole idea was to suspend the movement within a shock-absorbing device, a patented system named SPRIN-g PROTECT that shields the movement from impacts. It wasn’t a first, as other spring-mounted movements have existed in the past, but IWC’s system was verified by the Cavendish Laboratory and the University of Cambridge. The relies on a mathematically calculated BMG (bulk metallic glass) spring, which has an amorphous microstructure making it significantly more elastic than conventional crystalline metals.

I have a rather special and personal connection with this watch… Not that I would ever be able to own it, but it has been the central point of one of my favourite stories for MONOCHROME when I got to meet and talk with a French Aéronavale pilot – Commander Etienne Bauer, flying on a Rafale – as he was testing this very watch on the field. A once-in-a-lifetime experience, as I could spend a full day around these incredible men, next to their planes and even seeing them taking off right in front of my eyes (ps. It was truly breathtaking, incredibly intense, almost frightening to stand at less than 10-metres of a Rafale taking off…)

Alright, enough with my personal nostalgia, back to watch business. Today, the Schaffhausen-based brand launches a new edition of this watch, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team (yes, that is the actual name…) This limited edition has been done with AMG’s team principal, who had been spotted wearing the classic BP Shock Absorber XPL on several occasions. It was time for IWC to create Toto’s own version. Technically speaking, the watch hasn’t changed much and retains the same 44mm x 12.6mm Ceratanium case, a titanium and ceramic compound, with an oversized diamond-shaped crown and strong protective elements on the flanks. 

Also, the SPRIN-g PROTECT shock absorber system has been retained and the watch should be able to survive everything Toto might throw at it, including during some of his most temperamental moments. What has changed then with this new Big Pilot Shock Absorber XPL for Toto Wolff…? First and foremost, the black dial has been updated with a new stamped grained texture, with revised lumed applied markers, a floating-like inner flange and redesigned openworked lumed hands. Also, the BMG shock-absorbing spring has been coated with Petronas green Super-LumiNova.

Under the hood, the base movement remains the same, being the manufacture calibre 32101 (a Valfleurier-sourced movement). This automatic movement runs at a 4Hz frequency and stores a comfortable 120-hour power reserve. Visible under a sapphire back adorned with Toto Wolff’s signature, it is here finished in matte black.

Delivered with a Petronas green rubber strap and an additional black rubber strap with textile inlays, the IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team is a limited edition of 100 pieces. The price is CHF 95,000, EUR 102,000 or USD 102,000.

Allow me two comments regarding this watch… While I still think it is a very cool watch, even if quite a niche model, please IWC, shorten the name… Second, despite Toto Wolff having a very successful career – eight consecutive World Constructors’ Championship titles from 2014 to 2021 can be called an achievement – why not make these watches together with the real men of action? Those who will be behind the wheel of the F1 car during the 2025 season (George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli)… Would make more sense in my opinion.

For more details, please visit iwc.com.