IWC Collection: Trusted Timepiece Overview

TeutonicCarFan · 2021-11-21T15:11:20Z

Explore the enduring appeal of the IWC Pilot's Watch Chronograph Ref. 3717-01, from ownership experiences to strap customization and IWC's laser welding service.

TeutonicCarFan's enduring affection for his IWC Pilot's Watch Chronograph Ref. 3717-01 highlights the lasting appeal of well-designed tool watches. His experience underscores how thoughtful strap choices and professional servicing can enhance both the aesthetics and longevity of a beloved timepiece. This discussion provides valuable insights into maintaining and personalizing a classic IWC reference.

I purchased this 3717-01 around 2010, I love the size and clear dial layout. Of all the recent versions, this is my favorite. It has kept great time. I sent it for one service about 1.5 years ago and that was only because my daughter dropped it and gouged the side case. It got the laser weld treatment and now looks brand new. Added an updated strap and IWC deployant clasp for updated look. Didn't like the original strap as it was more dressy for a tool watch. Go Bills!

Key Points from the Discussion

The IWC Pilot's Watch Chronograph Ref. 3717-01 is appreciated for its clear dial layout and robust design, making it a 'keeper' for many collectors despite its larger size and weight compared to other pilot watches.
The original author replaced the standard dressy strap with a 'Big Pilot style' strap and an IWC deployant clasp, finding it more suitable for the watch's tool watch character and improving comfort and security on the wrist.
IWC, along with other Richemont brands like A. Lange & Söhne and Vacheron Constantin, offers laser welding for case repairs, effectively restoring significant damage like deep gouges to a like-new condition.
When using a single-fold deployant clasp, collectors with smaller wrists should be mindful of strap length to ensure a comfortable fit, as an improperly sized strap can lead to discomfort.
While OEM NATO straps are available and aesthetically pleasing, the IWC 3717-01 can feel top-heavy on them, suggesting that a more substantial leather strap with a deployant might offer better balance and security.

The Discussion

Lankysudanese

Nov 21, 2021

2010 were the heydays of IWC. hopefully the brand can return to that.

TeutonicCarFan

Nov 21, 2021

I like those Arabics and the brown tones 👍

TeutonicCarFan

Nov 21, 2021

Always nice to wear one that has been hibernating.

TeutonicCarFan

Nov 21, 2021

... although I do like the direction with smaller big pilot and yacht club, etc. As for the welding they definitely do, as well as ALS and VC. Maybe a richemont thing?

JohnFM

Nov 21, 2021

I have the same model and love the look/design. It's a little bigger/heavier on the wrist than more basic pilot watches like the Mark XVI or Stowa Flieger, so it gets less wrist time than it deserves. It's always great to see the 3717, however -- a keeper, no doubt. Still waiting for GO to re-release the Rimowa model that Nicolas posts from time to time ;-)

TeutonicCarFan

Nov 21, 2021

Evened out a little by adding the single fold deployant. I got rid of the standard strap and got the big pilot type from the more recent pilot chronos. I also have the oem nato which is nice but this is too top heavy for that IMO

Key Points from the Discussion

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