I am a purewatches. Over the years of playing watches, I have dismantled dozens of watches, but today I got this pair of new APS products——Tahoe White CeramicsandBlack Ceramic Pilot’s Watch Chronograph, I still couldn’t help but look at it a few more times. The reason is simple:Full ceramic shell, original mold opening, integrated movement, accurate size, the key point is that even the watch buckle structure is restored strictly according to the original logic. This is not a replica that is “almost enough”, but is aimed at “no one will doubt it if you wear it”.
Let’s talk about the key points first: these two modelsdifferent sizes, don’t get confused!
White ceramic “Lake Tahoe” edition, diameter44.5mm, with a thickness of 15.5mm, completely matches the original IWC Big Pilot 445001; the black ceramic model is42mm(actually measured 41.9mm), which is closer to the wearing feeling of the classic 42mm flying meter. If your wrist is above 17cm, white ceramic will look domineering and stable; if your wrist is thin (for example, below 16.5cm), it is recommended to choose black ceramic directly, otherwise it will easily look like a “watch-like” wrist.
In terms of materials, both models areFull zirconia ceramic, Wear resistance and scratch resistance are basic operations. I deliberately scratched the watch case a few times with my key, and there was no trace – there is no need to worry about daily bumps. The white ceramic is as warm as jade, while the black ceramic is as deep as night, each emitting a unique luster under the sunlight. Especially “Lake Tahoe” white. Although the name has “lake”, it is not a cold white, but a warm white with a milky tone. It looks very textured when paired with titanium metal or formal wear.
In terms of details, APS really digs it to the core this time.
The dial is a classic flying meter layout: 30-minute chronograph counter at 3 o’clock, 12-hour chronograph counter at 9 o’clock, small second hand at 6 o’clock (always running), and the large central second hand only runs when the chronograph is started. The end of the second handred tip, accurately restoring the original “red dot” design. The fonts are printed clearly, the scales are three-dimensional, and the luminous filling is even. Although it is a black disk, there is no pressure when reading.
The craftsmanship of the watch case is impeccable: the ceramic bezel is polished finely and without burrs; the crown logo is three-dimensional and clear and screws in smoothly; the bottom cover is densely designed with deep engravings, and information such as “IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN” and model number “445001” are all available, and the font thickness and spacing are all matched. What makes me most satisfied is——The buckle structure is completely distinguished from the original one! For white ceramicsButterfly folding buckle(The strap pegs are below the lugs, like Portofino), for black ceramicsPin buckle(The pile position is at the top). 99% of factories will ignore this detail, but APS has done it, which shows its rigorous mold creation.
The movement is equipped with APS self-developedFlying meter integrated movement, non-chronograph movement modification. The functional logic is completely correct: the three-stage operation of start, pause and zero is smooth. When returning to zero, the pointer snaps back to 12 o’clock, which is crisp and clean. Although the movement cannot be seen through the non-transparent design, the integrated structure ensures stability and is completely sufficient for daily use.
Finally, some practical advice:
- The white ceramic 44.5mm has a strong aura and is suitable for business, outdoor or players who pursue a sense of presence;
- The black ceramic 42mm is more versatile and can be used for commuting, formal wear, and leisure;
- Ceramics are not afraid of scratching, butAvoid falling! Once you hit a hard corner, the edge may chip, so be careful when wearing it;
- Both models are equipped with the same original rubber strap, which is soft and close to the wrist and has a high degree of restoration of the lining texture.
Summary: APS’s pair of ceramic flying meters is not “imitation”, but “reproduction of the original logic”. From size, material to function and buckle, respect for IWC’s original work is reflected in every aspect. if you want a pieceIt’s really not afraid of scratching, can be worn, and the details are not exposed.The pilot’s chronograph, both of which are worth watching with your eyes closed.