IWC Big Pilot Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff
IWC unveils the 100-piece Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff Edition with SPRIN-g PROTECT and a Ceratanium case. Share
Swiss luxury watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled an exclusive timepiece that brings the high-octane world of Formula One™ to the wrist. The Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL Toto Wolff x Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team (Ref. IW356201) represents a fusion of cutting-edge watchmaking technology and motorsport-inspired design.
Limited to just 100 pieces worldwide, this exceptional watch was released on February 17th, 2025, coinciding with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team’s preparation for the upcoming racing season. The timepiece pays tribute to Toto Wolff, CEO and principal of the Mercedes team, who has been spotted wearing a prototype of this model during intense racing moments.
The watch’s standout feature is IWC’s patented SPRIN-g PROTECT® shock absorber system, originally developed by the brand’s engineering division XPL in 2021. This innovative system utilizes a cantilever spring made from bulk metallic glass (BMG) to cushion the movement inside the case, absorbing a significant portion of g-forces from impacts before they can reach the delicate movement components.
Design elements reflect the team’s distinctive black and PETRONAS green color scheme. Most notably, the shock-absorbing spring is coated with Super-LumiNova in the team’s signature green, creating a distinctive glow in low-light conditions. The case and crown are crafted from Ceratanium, IWC’s proprietary material that combines titanium’s lightness with ceramic-like hardness.
The technical black dial features a distinctive grainy structure stamped into the brass base, complemented by triangular black hands edged with Super-LumiNova. Adding to the watch’s modern aesthetic, the minute scale appears to float freely on lamellae attached around the dial.
Powering this timepiece is the IWC-manufactured 32101 calibre, featuring a double pawl automatic winding system and an impressive 120-hour power reserve. The movement components are blackened to harmonize with the watch’s all-black design and can be viewed through a tinted sapphire glass case back adorned with Toto Wolff’s signature.
The watch comes fitted with an integrated green rubber strap, with an additional black rubber strap included. This exclusive timepiece exemplifies IWC’s engineering prowess and commemorates their longstanding partnership with one of Formula One™’s most successful teams as they welcome their new driver lineup of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the 2025 season.
