I don't know what their cost was to source the case material as well as manufacture them in a limited quantity but in regards to the movement, yes, the $6K+ price tag is quite high. However, they may have noticed how some of their LE pieces have been performing at the auctions and based their pricing strategy from there? I believe their LE Vacheron Constantin CDV is still selling well above it's retail price in the secondary market. Obviously this IWC isn't in the same category as the VC but perhaps they are factoring in the broad appeal of the Mark Pilot watches in general? Just like many others, I'm hoping for a steel, mass-produced version soon but I can't see that happening soon as it may "devalue" the Hodinkee and Revolution/Rake LE's.