8 Discussions and CommentsMember since April 3, 2006
HI,
I’ve got a bit of a problem with buying an IWC Pilot Chrono, and am hoping someone may be able to suggest a solution.
First, I really like the dial of the current (3706) chrono, but at 39mm it is too small for my wrist. I need 42mm really. So, that narrows my options to either the new chrono (3717) or the old-style doppel. I had hoped that the new one would be the answer, but I went out at the weekend, tried them all on, and realised that I like the old dial miles better. That narrows it down to the doppel. However, I’m not sure I want to spend more than twice as much on the watch (it’s not like I’ll ever use the doppel feature).
Can anyone suggest a way out of this? One thing I’ve been wondering is whether I can buy the new chrono, and then get someone to replace the hands and dial with those from an old doppel? Anyone know if the dimensions are the same?
6,256 Discussions and CommentsMember since March 22, 2001
Hi James & welcome. First, why don't you like >
the dial of the new 3717? I've one on `order`, and the open simple dial is both very traditional, and very modern. I also really like the red seconds hand. Not to mention the wonderful new 42 mm size!
Perhaps, you haven't spent enough time with the new design yet. It often takes time for a watch to grow on you.
Next, you are not going to find an authorized IWC agent who will change dials for you. This would void the warranty. Plus, it makes the watch less the "official"...Which is a no-no.
286 Discussions and CommentsMember since June 7, 2005Piedmont,
United States
IWC Pilot Chrono dilemma
James, I've been in your shoes. While I greatly respect Isobars' opinion and knowledge of IWC, I agree with you that the outgoing classic pilots chrono is aesthetically far superior to the recently introduced one. The new dial, though handsome, strikes me as less classy, less refined, less distinctive and more youthful. I do like the new fliegerchrono's size (42mm), which prompted me to seriously consider trading in my baby for the larger size. I decided not to.
Although I bought my classic pilots chrono before the new line was introduced, I battled with the size issue. I'm a taller guy (6'5") with a wrist to match, so the size and volume of the watch was very important to me. To this day I believe that the doppelchrono would be the better fit, but I went with the fliegerchrono because, as you say, it was cheaper and therefore holds more value to me as my everyday watch. Personally, if you are willing to spend the money for a doppelchrono, I would take a good hard look at either the outgoing or newly introduced Big Pilot.
Another advantage to the classic pilots that you might consider: you can wear it with dress shirts. The doppelchrono, I suspect, will be too large (or thick) to wear with those shirts. That said, though I wish my classic chrono was bigger, I wear it with pride, knowing that I got a very handsome watch that will work with my polo shirts and collar shirts at a great price.
Lastly, are you looking at the model with the bracelet? It seems to me that the bracelet makes the watch appear a tad more voluminuous than it really is....
I hope this helps.... Good luck! Let us all know what you decide!!
453 Discussions and CommentsMember since Oct. 15, 2003
Don't rush into your decision
James,
One thing I've learnt about watches is that we should take our time to decide which ones speak to us. I have a classic Doppel and our relationship started off with me saying "it's too big". After several weeks and 2 more visits to the AD, I had grown used to the size.
Based on your description, I would suggest looking for a pre-owned classic Doppel. But I would encourage you to spend some time at your AD and trying on the new classic Chrono on bracelet and strap. Sleep on it and see what appeals to you.
We enjoy reading about fellow members getting their IWCs. Do return and let us know what you decide on.
6,214 Discussions and CommentsMember since March 26, 2001Krefeld,
Germanywww.goerter.de
IWC Pilot Chrono dilemma
I do really sypathise with your thoughts. While I am happy with my 3706 (who REALLY needs a split second mechanism:=) I still was throught with a kind og "mind-simulatin" ("what would I do if . . .) I personally would prefer the old Doppelchronograph!
PS: I am just wearing that 3706 while I am writing this :=)
161 Discussions and CommentsMember since March 15, 2004
IWC Pilot Chrono dilemma
Hi,
the last thing you want to do is to replace the hands, as you may just created a hybrid watch. double chrono should be a better choice, splite second chrono is a complication that worth every nickle you spend.
715 Discussions and CommentsMember since March 22, 2001
I know this is a losing battle...>>
...but I have to try :-)
I would take issue with your assertion that "39mm is too small for my wrist". You only have to get used to that size (as you have clearly already got used to a larger size).
How big is your wrist? Mine is approaching 8" in circumferance and I regularly wear 34 and 35mm vintage watches. In fact, for unobtrusive comfort around 36mm often feels like the optimum size. The secret is to wear the watch for a week or more rather than switch every other day. I also find that my watches run better when they are worn consistently - that is what they were designed for.
I know I have made a lot of assumptions about what you do with your watches which may be wrong, but it seems strange to me that a watch (the Fliegerchrono) has gone from being "too big" for many people when I first started getting interested in watches 10 years ago to "too small" today.
By the way, Hans's statement on the practical usefulness of the split seconds mechanism in the Doppel is right, in my opinion. It's not so useful in everyday life, but it is really cool to watch!
8 Discussions and CommentsMember since April 3, 2006
Hi James & welcome. First, why don't you like >
Hi Isobars,
I agree about the red seconds hand. I had spent a long time looking at the new design on the internet, and was convinced I really liked it. In fact I'd already placed a preliminary `order` for one. However, I spent this weekend in Zurich, and visited a number of watch shops while I was there. The IWC boutique had a sample of the new model and also the older doppel. When I tried them both, the design of the doppel (for me), completely blew away the new dial. Seeing the watch in the flesh really makes a difference.
8 Discussions and CommentsMember since April 3, 2006
IWC Pilot Chrono dilemma
Toby, I must admit I haven't tried the fliegerchrono with bracelet, although I have tried the doppel and new flieger with both leather strap and bracelet. Maybe I'll try that and see if it bulks it up. James
8 Discussions and CommentsMember since April 3, 2006
I know this is a losing battle...>>
Hi Steve,
Just measured, and my wrist is around 7.25 inches (although I'm not sure about the exact location to measure). Strangely, I'm actually coming to buying this watch with no assumptions at all - this will be the first real watch I've ever bought, and in fact I haven't worn a watch at all for over 10 years (and it was a casio databank before that!). So I don't think I came into it with any pre-conceptions - when I put the 39mm classic chrono on my wrist for the first time it just seemed to be a little small, and the size of the doppel just seemed right. I think I'm talking myself into the doppel, aren't I? Tell me more about why the split seconds mechanism is so cool...
I’ve got a bit of a problem with buying an IWC Pilot Chrono, and am hoping someone may be able to suggest a solution.
First, I really like the dial of the current (3706) chrono, but at 39mm it is too small for my wrist. I need 42mm really.
So, that narrows my options to either the new chrono (3717) or the old-style doppel.
I had hoped that the new one would be the answer, but I went out at the weekend, tried them all on, and realised that I like the old dial miles better.
That narrows it down to the doppel. However, I’m not sure I want to spend more than twice as much on the watch (it’s not like I’ll ever use the doppel feature).
Can anyone suggest a way out of this? One thing I’ve been wondering is whether I can buy the new chrono, and then get someone to replace the hands and dial with those from an old doppel? Anyone know if the dimensions are the same?
Thanks for any help
James
the dial of the new 3717? I've one on `order`, and the open simple dial is both very traditional, and very modern. I also really like the red seconds hand. Not to mention the wonderful new 42 mm size!
Perhaps, you haven't spent enough time with the new design yet. It often takes time for a watch to grow on you.
Next, you are not going to find an authorized IWC agent who will change dials for you. This would void the warranty. Plus, it makes the watch less the "official"...Which is a no-no.
After I hear your thoughts, I'll continue.
Cheers from Isobars.
James, I've been in your shoes. While I greatly respect Isobars' opinion and knowledge of IWC, I agree with you that the outgoing classic pilots chrono is aesthetically far superior to the recently introduced one. The new dial, though handsome, strikes me as less classy, less refined, less distinctive and more youthful. I do like the new fliegerchrono's size (42mm), which prompted me to seriously consider trading in my baby for the larger size. I decided not to.
Although I bought my classic pilots chrono before the new line was introduced, I battled with the size issue. I'm a taller guy (6'5") with a wrist to match, so the size and volume of the watch was very important to me. To this day I believe that the doppelchrono would be the better fit, but I went with the fliegerchrono because, as you say, it was cheaper and therefore holds more value to me as my everyday watch. Personally, if you are willing to spend the money for a doppelchrono, I would take a good hard look at either the outgoing or newly introduced Big Pilot.
Another advantage to the classic pilots that you might consider: you can wear it with dress shirts. The doppelchrono, I suspect, will be too large (or thick) to wear with those shirts. That said, though I wish my classic chrono was bigger, I wear it with pride, knowing that I got a very handsome watch that will work with my polo shirts and collar shirts at a great price.
Lastly, are you looking at the model with the bracelet? It seems to me that the bracelet makes the watch appear a tad more voluminuous than it really is....
I hope this helps.... Good luck! Let us all know what you decide!!
Toby
James,
One thing I've learnt about watches is that we should take our time to decide which ones speak to us. I have a classic Doppel and our relationship started off with me saying "it's too big". After several weeks and 2 more visits to the AD, I had grown used to the size.
Based on your description, I would suggest looking for a pre-owned classic Doppel. But I would encourage you to spend some time at your AD and trying on the new classic Chrono on bracelet and strap. Sleep on it and see what appeals to you.
We enjoy reading about fellow members getting their IWCs. Do return and let us know what you decide on.
Cheers,
Jeffrey
in Singapore
Last edited: 16 November, 2011 - 04:48
I do really sypathise with your thoughts. While I am happy with my 3706 (who REALLY needs a split second mechanism:=)
I still was throught with a kind og "mind-simulatin" ("what would I do if . . .)
I personally would prefer the old Doppelchronograph!
PS: I am just wearing that 3706 while I am writing this :=)
... if you want to write me a PM:
IWC_Fan@gmx.de
Last edited: 24 April, 2013 - 04:42
Hi,
the last thing you want to do is to replace the hands, as you may just created a hybrid watch. double chrono should be a better choice, splite second chrono is a complication that worth every nickle you spend.
regards
Stephen
...but I have to try :-)
I would take issue with your assertion that "39mm is too small for my wrist". You only have to get used to that size (as you have clearly already got used to a larger size).
How big is your wrist? Mine is approaching 8" in circumferance and I regularly wear 34 and 35mm vintage watches. In fact, for unobtrusive comfort around 36mm often feels like the optimum size. The secret is to wear the watch for a week or more rather than switch every other day. I also find that my watches run better when they are worn consistently - that is what they were designed for.
I know I have made a lot of assumptions about what you do with your watches which may be wrong, but it seems strange to me that a watch (the Fliegerchrono) has gone from being "too big" for many people when I first started getting interested in watches 10 years ago to "too small" today.
By the way, Hans's statement on the practical usefulness of the split seconds mechanism in the Doppel is right, in my opinion. It's not so useful in everyday life, but it is really cool to watch!
Hi Isobars,
I agree about the red seconds hand. I had spent a long time looking at the new design on the internet, and was convinced I really liked it. In fact I'd already placed a preliminary `order` for one. However, I spent this weekend in Zurich, and visited a number of watch shops while I was there. The IWC boutique had a sample of the new model and also the older doppel. When I tried them both, the design of the doppel (for me), completely blew away the new dial. Seeing the watch in the flesh really makes a difference.
James
Toby,
I must admit I haven't tried the fliegerchrono with bracelet, although I have tried the doppel and new flieger with both leather strap and bracelet. Maybe I'll try that and see if it bulks it up.
James
Hi Steve,
Just measured, and my wrist is around 7.25 inches (although I'm not sure about the exact location to measure).
Strangely, I'm actually coming to buying this watch with no assumptions at all - this will be the first real watch I've ever bought, and in fact I haven't worn a watch at all for over 10 years (and it was a casio databank before that!). So I don't think I came into it with any pre-conceptions - when I put the 39mm classic chrono on my wrist for the first time it just seemed to be a little small, and the size of the doppel just seemed right.
I think I'm talking myself into the doppel, aren't I? Tell me more about why the split seconds mechanism is so cool...