IWC Big Pilot's Watch vs Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special

In-Depth Comparison

The IWC Big Pilot's Watch and the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

IWC and Zenith are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Pilot reference was introduced in 2016, while this Pilot reference debuted in 2016.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the IWC Big Pilot's Watch beats the 52110 caliber offering a 168-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 42 jewels. The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special is powered by the Elite 6150 with a 50-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 26 jewels. The IWC Big Pilot's Watch wins on power reserve with a 118-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The IWC Big Pilot's Watch features a 46.2mm case at 15.7mm thick with a 55.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special comes in at 40.0mm and 13.0mm thick with 48.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel, aged finish. The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 85g, the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The IWC Big Pilot's Watch uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, brushed bezel, while the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special features Sapphire, domed crystal with a Fixed, smooth bezel. On the wrist, the IWC Big Pilot's Watch comes on a Black calfskin leather strap with Folding clasp, while the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special is fitted with Oily nubuck brown leather strap featuring Pin buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The IWC Big Pilot's Watch is rated to 60m / 197ft and the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special to 100m / 328ft. For water sports and diving, the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special provides superior depth capability.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the IWC Big Pilot's Watch lists for $14,700 compared to $5,700 for the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special. The Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $9,000 at retail. On the secondary market, the IWC Big Pilot's Watch trades around $11,500 while the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special commands approximately $4,200.

The Verdict

Choosing between the IWC Big Pilot's Watch and the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For value-conscious buyers, the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special delivers excellent quality at a lower price point. for dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Zenith Pilot Type 20 Extra Special is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.