The entry-level pilot’s watch from IWC’s Pilot collection makes a long-awaited return after six years—the Mark XX is here to take flight.
Following the 2016 release of its predecessor, the Mark XVII, IWC skips the XIX and leaps directly to the Mark XX. The new model features subtle design refinements, with enhanced case finishing for improved comfort and wearability. In addition to classic blue and black dial options, this release embraces today’s most sought-after trend in horology—green, offering a fresh colorway that echoes current market tastes.
The V7 Factory Mark XX stands out as the only version in the industry daring enough to present side-by-side comparisons with genuine pieces. Addressing shortcomings found in existing market replicas, it precisely replicates the original’s structure and details down to the smallest component, achieving perfect alignment when disassembled—truly a flawless clone.
V7 employs the same 40mm stainless steel case craftsmanship as the Mark XVIII, removing the soft iron inner cage. The thickness is slightly reduced from 11mm to 10.83mm. The screw-down crown remains, while the lug width is slightly increased and the lug-to-lug distance shortened from 51.2mm to 49.2mm, enhancing wearing comfort. The bezel features mirror polishing to emphasize three-dimensional depth. Every dimension—including diameter, thickness, curvature, and even fine details along the case back edge—is perfectly matched to the original. Edges and corners are meticulously polished. The solid case back adds to the watch’s integrity, with V7’s brushed finish flawlessly recreated, delivering a seamless appearance from every angle.
The dial faithfully mirrors the original, featuring imported double-sided anti-reflective domed sapphire crystal with identical clarity. Hour markers and numerals retain white printing, while updates over the Mark XVIII include elongated 3, 6, 9, and 12 indices. Lume plots replace previous hands with luminous coating; Arabic numerals are repositioned slightly inward toward the center of the dial. The ‘IWC’ logo at 12 o’clock is subtly raised, and the triangle marker now features a teardrop-shaped lume plot, creating a refreshed visual balance. The date window maintains a white background with black numerals in a stepped design, aligned on a circular track matching the hour markers, offering greater contrast against the dial. Fluorescent elements and hands ensure excellent legibility under any lighting condition. Hour and minute hands are rhodium-plated, with a slight curve at the tail—distinct from other market versions, showcasing V7’s rigorous attention to detail, which remains impeccable even under magnification.
V7 uses exclusive imported calf leather straps developed specifically for the Mark series, matching the original in material, workmanship, and wearing comfort. A newly molded buckle features precise engraving and solid craftsmanship. Both strap and buckle incorporate a quick-release mechanism, implementing the EasX-CHANGE® system that allows effortless band replacement without tools—virtually indistinguishable from the authentic. This sets it apart from other replica versions.
Powered by an upgraded Swiss-import SW300 movement, V7 ensures outstanding performance—high accuracy, long-term reliability, and zero need for repairs. For budget-conscious buyers, V7 also offers a stable edition equipped with the Sea-Gull 2892 movement, matching the Swiss version exactly in appearance and detail.
