IWC Pilot B-Uhr Luftwaffe 1940's Ref. 431 Military Pilot Watch WWII 55mm (Mint)

IWC Big Pilot Ref. 431 – WWII Military Heritage

IWC is a storied Swiss watchmaker renowned for its precision and dedication to producing instruments for aviation and military use. With a legacy spanning over a century, IWC has earned a reputation for robust, highly legible timepieces that serve both practical and collector interests.

The IWC Big Pilot Ref. 431, originally issued to the Luftwaffe during World War II, is one of the brand’s most coveted models. Made in stainless steel rather than the more common grey-coated brass, this rare piece stands apart with fewer than 200 examples in circulation. Maintained in pristine condition without any retouching or restoration, it features an original black dial with untouched luminous markers and hands, and is accompanied by its original dust cover bearing matching factory numbers. This model represents a significant piece of military and aviation history, making it a must-have for serious collectors.

Key Details To Consider

The IWC Big Pilot Ref. 431 is an exceptionally rare and highly collectible timepiece, originally supplied to the German Air Force, the Luftwaffe, during World War II. With fewer than 200 examples remaining in circulation, this model stands out among military-issued pilot watches, not only for its scarcity but also for being the only version produced in stainless steel rather than grey-coated brass.

This particular example is in remarkable original condition, never polished, retouched, or restored. The black dial remains flawless, retaining its original hands and untouched luminous material—an uncommon preservation given the history of these watches. Most surviving pieces have undergone significant repairs or refinishing over the decades, making the integrity of this watch especially rare.

All factory numbers are intact, and the watch includes its original dust cover, which bears matching case-back numbers, further verifying its authenticity. For serious collectors of military and pilot watches, this piece represents an extraordinary opportunity to own a museum-quality example of IWC’s storied aviation legacy.

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