IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Annual Calendar Edition “Le Petit Prince” IW502703

The IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Annual Calendar Edition “Le Petit Prince” (Ref. IW502703) is a commanding synthesis of horological complexity and poetic narrative. Housed in a 46.2 mm 18 k white gold case (about 15 mm thick), this limited edition of just 250 pieces commands presence on the wrist. Its rich sunburst blue dial presents the trio of annual calendar displays (day, date, month) in curved windows beneath the 12 o’clock marker—balanced by a power reserve indicator at 3 o’clock and a small seconds subdial at 9. The contrasting luminous Arabic numerals and hands ensure outstanding legibility, while the domed sapphire crystal contributes to its robust pilot-watch aesthetics.

Beneath the surface, the timepiece is powered by IWC’s in-house Calibre 52850, a sophisticated automatic movement with twin barrels offering up to 7 days of power reserve. In a first for IWC, this model features a blue-coated movement, visible through a sapphire caseback, and the rotor carries a delicate engraving of the Little Prince standing on his asteroid. Thematically, the watch bridges IWC’s aviation heritage with the imaginative spirit of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, giving it both technical gravitas and emotional resonance.

Reference: IW502703

Dated: 2019

Limited: 250 Made

Bracelet: Blue Leather Delugs Strap (Aftermarket) - Original Clasp

Dial: Blue Dial

Case: 46.2mm x 15.3mm Thickness - 18K White Gold

Lug Width: 22mm

Movement: IWC 52850 - Automatic

Functions: HMS, Annual calendar with displays for the month, date and day

Box and Papers: Inner box and warranty card

Crystal: Sapphire

Bracelet size: 7.75”

Case has minimal wear. Strap has creasing with not much wear on deployant. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear.

The International Watch Company (IWC) has a rich history dating back to 1868 when American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones founded the company in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Jones aimed to combine advanced American manufacturing techniques with the skilled craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers. Despite initial challenges, IWC quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality pocket watches and, later, wristwatches. 

Throughout the 20th century, IWC was a force of innovation and expand its repertoire accordingly. In the 1930s, they introduced their first pilot's watches, which would become an enduring part of their identity. During World War II, IWC produced these watches for both civilian and military use. The post-war period saw the introduction of iconic collections like the Ingenieur in 1955 and the Aquatimer in 1967. In the 1970s, IWC collaborated with Ferdinand A. Porsche to create the first watch with a built-in compass. The company's commitment to technical innovation and classic design has persisted into the 21st century, with IWC remaining a respected name in luxury watchmaking.