IWC Pilots Watch Chronograph 41 Tribute to 3705 "Black Flieger" IW387905

The IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Tribute to 3705” Ref. IW387905 is a modern homage to the legendary 1994 Ref. 3705, better known among collectors as the “Black Flieger.” The original 3705 was groundbreaking as IWC’s first pilot’s watch housed in black zirconium-oxide ceramic, and its once-unusual appearance has since made it one of the most sought-after neo-vintage IWC references. Released in 2021 and limited to just 1,000 pieces, the Tribute recreates the original’s black instrument-style dial while enlarging the case to 41mm. Rather than ceramic, IWC uses its proprietary Ceratanium for the case, pushers, and pin buckle, combining the lightweight toughness of titanium with a hard, scratch-resistant ceramic-like surface. The dial features chronograph registers at 9 and 12 o’clock, running seconds at 6, and the characteristic day-date display at 3. A convex sapphire crystal, soft-iron inner case for magnetic protection, screw-down crown, black calfskin strap, and 60 meters of water resistance complete the purposeful aviation-inspired design.

Inside is IWC’s manufacture Calibre 69380, a 33-jewel automatic chronograph movement composed of 242 components and operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour. Unlike the Valjoux 7750 that powered the original 3705, the 69380 uses a column-wheel chronograph architecture and IWC’s bidirectional pawl winding system, delivering approximately 46 hours of power reserve. The IW387905 is particularly compelling because it does more than simply reproduce the Black Flieger: it connects two different periods of IWC material innovation, from the pioneering ceramic construction of the 1994 original to the brand’s modern Ceratanium technology. With only 1,000 examples produced, unmistakable monochromatic styling, and a manufacture chronograph movement, the Tribute to 3705 has become a collectible modern interpretation of one of IWC’s most important cult-classic pilot’s watches.

Reference: IW387905

Limited: 1000 Pieces

Dated: 2021

Bracelet: Black rubber strap and black leather strap

Case Size: 41mm x 15.3mm Thickness

Lug Width: 20mm

Case Metal: Ceratanium

Movement: IWC 69380 - Automatic

Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Date, Day, Chronograph

Box and Papers: Inner/outer boxes, and warranty card

Crystal: Sapphire

Bracelet size: 7.75”

Case has no wear. Strap has minimal wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear as well.

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.