This year, IWC Schaffhausen marks a double milestone: 90 years of Pilot’s Watches, and the extension of that aviation legacy beyond the sky and into space. Reflecting this ambition, the booth immerses visitors in the world of space exploration. Its architecture draws inspiration from a space station, while offering a sweeping view of Earth as seen from orbit. At its centre, a sculpture of the Little Prince connects this engineering story to the spirit of curiosity and exploration that defines this year’s Le Petit Prince collection. Eileen Gu and George Russell were welcomed by IWC Schaffhausen CEO Chris Grainger-Herr and Chief Marketing Officer Franziska Gsell, who walked them through the new collections and detailed the stories behind the novelties. 

“I always look forward to visiting the IWC family in Geneva. Every year they create a truly immersive experience, and this time, the concept and storytelling have been especially inspiring. You really feel like you are looking out into space, and you can’t help but think of all of the possibilities we have yet explore,” explained Eileen Gu. 

By recently winning another Olympic gold medal in Halfpipe and two Olympic silver medals in Slopestyle and Big Air, Eileen Gu has added another highlight to her already impressive achievements, cementing her place as the most decorated freestyle skier in the history of the sport.

During her visit to the booth, Eileen wore the Portofino Automatic 34 Day & Night Le Petit Prince (Ref. IW459806) – the first Le Petit Prince edition outside the Pilot’s Watches collection. Looking at her wrist, she said that the story of the Little Prince has fascinated her since her childhood: “I am thrilled to see that the little fellow has made his way into the Portofino collection. Seeing him standing on the small moon here is such a charming detail, and a reminder that you should never lose your sense of curiosity and always keep exploring the world around you.” 

While the visit for Eileen Gu marked a return, MercedesAMG PETRONAS Formula One^TM Team Driver George Russell made his long-awaited debut at the renowned Geneva watch exhibition. The six-time Grand PrixTM winner, who had achieved his latest victory at the season-opening race in Australia, wore the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Le Petit Prince (Ref. IW389410), one of the key pieces of IWC’s new Le Petit Prince collection. “I really like the presence this 41-millimetre chronograph with a deep blue dial has on my wrist. This piece masterfully combines the characteristic, highly legible instrument design of a Pilot’s Watch with the more emotional side of aviation and the story of one of the greatest aviation pioneers. It’s an unexpected yet very IWC combination that simply works,” Russell commented.

Another novelty that captured Eileen Gu’s and George Russell’s attention was the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar ProSet, the first perpetual calendar that can be adjusted both forward and backward through a single position of the crown. The engineering behind this watch resonated with both IWC brand ambassadors, making them look ahead to future achievements while also remembering their path to becoming two of the most influential personalities in global sports. Russell added: “The story of IWC engineering a calendar that can be adjusted in both directions, as easy and intuitive as setting the time, that is the kind of precision I can relate to as a racing driver. It is like setting yourself the ultimate goal in watchmaking and then working consistently and passionately to achieve it.”

On the opening day of Watches and Wonders Geneva, two-time Olympic champion freestyle skier and IWC brand ambassador Eileen Gu made a celebrated return. During her visit, Eileen was welcomed by CEO Chris GraingerHerr and Chief Marketing Officer Franziska Gsell who showed her around the booth. As Eileen toured the booth, she explored IWC Schaffhausen’s new Ingenieur models, including new sizes, materials, colours, and complications. The booth features minimalist architecture and design, following the Ingenieur’s principle of “Form und Technik”, enriched with black and gold elements. The black and gold are a nod to the new Ingenieurs in black ceramic and gold. 

In 2023, Eileen attended the fair as it launched the Ingenieur Automatic 40; a luxury sports watch with an integrated bracelet revisiting the emblematic design of Gérald Genta’s Ingenieur SL, Reference 1832, from the 1970s. Speaking about her return, Eileen shared: “I attended the fair when IWC Schaffhausen launched the Ingenieur Automatic 40 two years ago, so it is exciting to be back as the brand expands the collection. The new timepieces beautifully complement it. IWC has always been about precision, innovation, and pushing boundaries. This continues to be evident in everything they do, and it really inspires me as an athlete!” 

On her wrist, she wore the new Ingenieur Automatic 35 (Ref. IW324903) with an 18-carat 5N gold 35-millimetre case and bracelet, completed with a gold-coloured dial. It impresses with highly detailed finishing. Adding texture and reflecting light beautifully, it features a combination of satin-finished and polished surfaces. Another hallmark feature is the elaborately crafted dial with a characteristic “Grid” pattern. 

Reaffirming her admiration for IWC, Eileen talked with its watchmakers, gaining insights into the engineering and craftsmanship behind the latest timepieces. Her presence at Watches and Wonders Geneva further cements her close relationship with IWC Schaffhausen, which began in 2021. As a champion athlete, model, and advocate for youth empowerment, Eileen Gu embodies IWC’s ambition, precision, and pursuit of excellence.

EILEEN GU 

Eileen represents a unique intersection of sports, fashion, and education to empowered youth and families across the globe. Eileen Gu made history at the 2022 Winter Olympics, securing two golds and a silver medal, becoming the only action sports athlete to clinch three medals in a single Olympic event. At age 18, she set the record for the youngest Olympic gold medallist in freestyle skiing. Eileen’s extraordinary feats extend beyond the Olympics; she’s the first snowsport athlete to claim three medals at both the 2021 XGames and FIS World Championships and the inaugural female freeskier to execute a double cork 1440 and unnatural double cork 1620 in competition. Eileen also currently holds the win record for any freeski athlete, male or female, with 18 FIS World Cup victories. In her FIS World Cup career, she has an astounding 67% win percentage and has podiumed in 89% of her World Cup starts. 

In recognition of her exceptional accomplishments, Eileen was named “Action Sportsperson of the Year” at the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards. In 2022, she made the TIME100 Most Influential People List and won two ESPYs: Best Breakthrough Athlete and Best Action Sports Athlete. 

Eileen is not just a champion on the slopes but also a voice for young people, particularly girls. Her advocacy for female empowerment earned her the Vogue Aurora Award in 2019. Her role as a cultural conduit through sport was evident when she was named an ambassador for the 2022 Beijing Olympics, 2024 Gangwon Youth Olympics, 2024 Paris Olympics, and Salt Lake City 2030 Olympic Bid. 

Eileen is an outstanding full-time student at Stanford University. Most recently, she was admitted to Stanford’s selective study abroad program at Oxford University, where she spent autumn of 2024.

IWC Schaffhausen kicked off Watches and Wonders in Shanghai by hosting an exclusive event at TANK Shanghai, a non-profit art institution and multi-functional art centre. Located in the heart of Xuhui Riverfront along the Huangpu River, the centre is one of the city’s most vibrant art and cultural landmarks. It consists of five former tanks that previously belonged to Shanghai Longhua Airport, one of China’s first airports. Tank 5 provided the perfect setting for a conversation about time and eternity, as well as the passion for music and the engineering and craftsmanship behind the new Portugieser collection.

A PASSION FOR SCIENCE AND THE CONCEPT OF TIME 

The Swiss luxury watch manufacturer brought together Eileen Gu and Professor Brian Cox. When not chasing new records on the slopes, Eileen Gu is a student of physics at the world-renowned Stanford University. Brian Cox is a professor of particle physics at the University of Manchester and one of the foremost scientific commentators. The two talked about their shared passion for science and physics. Eileen Gu pondered questions about the concepts of time and eternity with Professor Cox. She also shared with the audience that she once wrote a letter to her future self, in which she manifested winning a medal at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW PORTUGIESER COLLECTION 

The duo delved into IWC’s new Portugieser collection. Professor Brian Cox expressed his fascination for the Portugieser Eternal Calendar. He explained how human curiosity led to the observation of celestial movements, helping our understanding of the continuous passage of time and ultimately leading to the development of the Gregorian calendar we use today. Since Kurt Klaus engineered his ingenious perpetual calendar in the 1980s, IWC has gained unique expertise in creating calendars that accurately reflect the solar year. With its innovative 400-year gear and moon phase display designed to run accurately for over 45 million years, the Portugieser Eternal Calendar exemplifies the engineering approach that has defined IWC for over 150 years. Eileen Gu discussed her admiration for the new colours Horizon Blue, Dune, Obsidian and Silver Moon and the elaborately crafted dials. Reflecting the eternal cycle of day and night, the colours reminded her of the mysteries of time and the beauty of our universe. She was equally impressed with the craftsmanship that went into manufacturing the dials, which are made using a complex 60-step process. Applying 15 layers of transparent lacquer gives them tremendous visual depth.

PERFORMANCE OF “A TRIBUTE TO ETERNITY” BY A STRING QUARTET 

Finally, Eileen Gu and Professor Brian Cox bonded over their mutual love of music. Eileen Gu is an enthusiastic piano player and also enjoys composing music. She even travels with a portable keyboard. Professor Brian Cox was a musician in various bands during the 1980s, and music is a significant part of his highly acclaimed live shows. 
 

The event concluded with a beautiful performance of “A Tribute to Eternity” by a string quartet from Shanghai. The music was created in a collaboration between Academy Award^®-winning music composer Hans Zimmer and Professor Brian Cox, and is inspired by the new Portugieser collection and the Portugieser Eternal Calendar. Representing the mystery of time in musical form, its performance provided a fitting end to the event.

BRIAN COX 

Brian is Professor of Particle Physics at the University of Manchester, The Royal Society Professor for Public Engagement in Science and a Fellow of the Royal Society. Brian is widely recognised as the foremost communicator for all things scientific, having presented a number of highly acclaimed science programmes for the BBC watched by billions internationally, including ‘Adventures in Space and Time’ (2021), ‘Universe’ (2021), ‘The Planets’ (2018), ‘Forces of Nature’ (2016), ‘Human Universe’ (2014), ‘Wonders of Life’ (2012), ‘Wonders of the Universe’ (2011) and ‘Wonders of the Solar System’ (2010). He also co-hosted popular astronomy and cosmology series ‘Stargazing Live’ with Dara O’Briain (and for ABC in Australia, with Julia Zemiro) and awardwinning BBC Radio 4 series ‘Infinite Monkey Cage’, which has gone on to become one of the UK’s most popular podcasts. As an author, Brian has also sold over a million books worldwide including ‘Black Holes’, ‘Universal: A Guide to the Cosmos’, ‘Quantum Universe’ and ‘Why Does E=mc2?’ with co-author Professor Jeffrey Forshaw. 
 

Brian has undertaken several sell-out live world tours, setting several Guinness World Records, including for the biggest selling science tour – a record he himself broke with his most recent worldwide tour, ‘Horizons’, which took in venues in the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and across Europe and was performed to hundreds of thousands of people across the world.

EILEEN GU 

After taking home two gold medals and one silver at the 2022 Winter Olympics, freeskier Eileen Gu became the only action sports athlete to win three medals at the same Olympic games. This made her the youngest freeski Olympic Gold medallist in history. The 20-yearold’s achievements on snow also include a slew of other record-breaking performances, including being the first snowsport athlete to ever win three medals at both the 2021 XGames and FIS World Championships. Eileen was also the first female freeskier to land a double cork 1440 and an unnatural double cork 1620.
 

Eileen uses her voice to help foster cultural understanding and friendship through sports. As an ambassador for freeskiing in the US, China, and worldwide, she hopes to inspire young people, especially girls, to build confidence, break their own boundaries, and lead happier, healthier lives through sport. Named Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year 2023 and one of the TIME100 List of Most Influential People of 2022, Eileen has also been recognised for her efforts with the Vogue Aurora Award for female empowerment and the SuperELLE Youth Idol Award. She has been a keynote speaker at the espnW Women in Sport Summit, received the “Next Gen” Award from Apex for Youth Organization and been named a Global Ambassador by the Asia Society of Southern California. Eileen is an accomplished student and fashion model with covers on Vogue, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, and L’Officiel, among others, while also excelling academically as a full time student at Stanford University.

In 2013, IWC Schaffhausen became the Official Engineering Partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ team. This milestone also marked the beginning of the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s shared journey with Lewis Hamilton, one of the most successful F1 pilots of all time, as well as a style and fashion icon with global appeal. To celebrate more than a decade of partnership, IWC invited Hamilton to a “Best of British” boat ride on the Thames. From Butler’s Wharf Pier to Battersea Power Station, where IWC has had a boutique since 2022, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ team driver passed by some of London’s most popular landmarks – among them Tower Bridge, the Shard, Tate Modern Gallery, Big Ben and the London Eye. Accompanied on the yacht by British TV presenter and broadcaster Roman Kemp, Hamilton recalled some of the most memorable moments from his ten years as an IWC brand ambassador – such as racing a fighter jet, driving with a thousand drones in Las Vegas or competing in entertaining golf and basketball challenges in Miami. During the boat ride, Lewis Hamilton wore the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team (Ref. IW388306) in Ceratanium^® with a black dial.

AN EXCLUSIVE ROOFTOP COCKTAIL RECEPTION

After he arrived at Battersea Power Station, Hamilton joined guests at a rooftop bar for an exclusive cocktail reception. In an intimate talk hosted by TV presenter Lucy Hedges and British-Italian racing driver Vittoria “Vicky” Piria, he revealed personal insights and anecdotes from his racing career spanning more than 30 years – from his humble beginnings in karting at the age of eight to winning seven world championship titles in the elite class of motorsport. Hamilton also looked ahead to the British Grand PrixTM at the historic Silverstone circuit. The event was attended by many notable guests. Among them was British actor Damson Idris, who is featured on the cast of the upcoming Apple Original Films movie about a fictional F1 team called APX GP, which is supported by IWC Schaffhausen.

POP-UP BOUTIQUE IN FRONT OF THE BATTERSEA POWER STATION

In the immediate vicinity of its boutique at Battersea Power Station, IWC Schaffhausen installed a pop-up store in Malaysia Square. Designed as an open and transparent space and built with a re-usable inflatable structure, the pop up-features an exhibition of racing memorabilia, a selection of emblematic watches and a photo wall celebrating key moments from Lewis Hamilton’s incredible journey with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™  team. The centrepiece is the Mercedes-AMG F1 W10 EQ Power+, the racing car contributing to Hamilton’s eleven first-place finishes in the 2019 season. Visitors can also marvel at Hamilton’s race suit from his Silverstone win in 2021, the trophy from the 2020 British Grand Prix™  when he crossed the finish line with only three working tyres, or a replica of his current racing helmet. Selected special edition watches Hamilton designed in collaboration with IWC’s creative team are also on display. These include the Lewis Hamilton Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition in black ceramic with a burgundy dial and gold accents, or last year’s Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph Lewis Hamilton in platinum with an elaborately finished teal-coloured dial.
 

The IWC Schaffhausen pop-up boutique is open daily until 7^th July from 10am to 5pm. 
 

Visitors wanting to explore the space are encouraged to sign up via the IWC website: https://www.iwc.com/gb/en/home.html

After visiting IWC at Watches and Wonders in Geneva, philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, supermodel, and IWC Brand Ambassador Gisele made her way to the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s hometown, Schaffhausen. Gisele visited the IWC Manufakturzentrum to experience the fine watchmaking process of the new Portugieser collection, which was unveiled the day before in Geneva. With the new Perpetual Calendars and the Eternal Calendar, the new collection underscores IWC’s unique expertise in calendars. 
 

“It was fascinating for me to see the level of detail and complex processes that go into making the watches. The Portugieser collection has amazing new colours, and I am impressed by the finishings and visual depth of the coloured dials. They are beautiful and visiting where they are made and seeing the precision of the craftsmanship firsthand has given me a whole new appreciation for my watches.” said Gisele. 
 

Gisele wore the new Portugieser Chronograph (ref. IW371624) with a Dune-coloured dial. Paired with a stainless-steel case, gold-plated hands, gold appliques and a black strap, the colour combination reflects the unique atmosphere of early evening with the golden glow of the setting sun. To showcase the colour to its full effect, IWC has created new dials with a captivating visual depth. They are crafted in a complex process comprising 60 individual steps, including applying 15 layers of transparent lacquer, which is fine-ground and then polished to a high-gloss finish. It is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, a robust mechanical chronograph movement in classic column-wheel design.
 

From component production and case-making to movement assembly, Gisele received the grand tour of the Manufakturzentrum. Opened in 2018, IWC Schaffhausen celebrated its 150th anniversary with the new Manufakturzentrum. True to the IWC spirit, it is an engineered state-of-the-art building with innovative manufacturing methods and technologies. 
 

In 2022, IWC welcomed the Brazilian philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, and supermodel Gisele as a brand ambassador. The relationship was formed in recognition of the remarkable synergy of shared values and ambitions between the two. Throughout her career, she has become one of the most successful and recognisable supermodels in the world. Not only because she has been photographed by some of the most legendary photographers and walked the runways of the biggest fashion houses but also because of her work within sustainability. Gisele has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009. She has also been honoured by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to key environmental issues. In addition, she was recently appointed to the board of the Lotus House – the largest shelter for women and children in the US. Gisele also recently reached a milestone as an author with her second NYT bestseller.

At Watches and Wonders 2024 in Geneva, IWC Schaffhausen has just unveiled its new Portugieser collection, whose undisputed highlight is the Portugieser Eternal Calendar. With its first secular perpetual calendar, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer builds on its extensive expertise in engineering mechanical calendars and pushes the boundaries in fine watchmaking. To accompany the launch of this highly complex watch, IWC joined forces with one of the foremost Scientific communicator Professor Brian Cox.
 

Brian Cox is a Professor at The University of Manchester who has worked on the Large Hadron Collider at CERN, Geneva, The Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory in Chicago and the DESY Laboratory in Hamburg. He is best known to the public as the presenter of a number of award-winning science programmes for the BBC, boosting the popularity of subjects such as astronomy and physics. He has also completed a string of Guinness World Record breaking, sell-out live world tours.

“To a physicist with a deep interest in space and time, IWC’s watchmaking is a source of inspiration. Looking at the second hand of a watch invites profound questions about the nature of time and space and the underlying structure and beauty of our Universe. What exactly is it that this precision machine is so elegantly measuring? But science can’t answer the deepest of questions alone. It is beyond exciting for me to collaborate with IWC and one of my musical heroes, Hans Zimmer. Art and music are as essential to the progress of our civilisation as science and engineering. This project is an opportunity to bring these disciplines together to create something unique and wonderful“, said Brian Cox.

WHEN ART AND SCIENCE UNITE: HANS ZIMMER COLLABORATES WITH BRIAN COX 

The Portugieser Eternal Calendar is not just a feat of engineering. With its intricate craftsmanship and high level of detail, it also represents a true work of art. For this reason, IWC reverted to another friend of the brand – Academy Award^®-winning music composer Hans Zimmer. He has not only scored some of the most important milestones in the history of cinema but is also known for his “engineered” approach to composing music. Among other things, this is underscored by his role as a pioneer in the domains of using synthesizsers and sampling to create and capture unique sounds. IWC called on Hans Zimmer to compose music inspired by the signature dial colours in the new Portugieser collection. While working on the compositions, Hans Zimmer was brought together with Brian Cox to exchange concepts and ideas. The unlikely pair exchanged thoughts on the Portugieser Eternal Calendar and discussed some key concepts inherent to art and science. The unique perspectives shared by Brian Cox as a scientist inspired Hans Zimmer while creating his music. The result of this collaboration is a unique masterpiece of music. While representing Silver Moon, Horizon Blue, Dune and Obsidian, it also reflects the timeless nature of the Portugieser and this year’s theme, “A Tribute to Eternity.” 
 

“As an artist, I always seek inspiration to take me to unexpected places and give my work new directions. Talking to Brian Cox, a leading physicist and such a brilliant mind, has deeply inspired me. This project has reinforced my intention to create a unique community of artists, scientists, and other thought leaders with the aim of collaborating on some of the most pressing challenges we face globally as a species,” said Hans Zimmer. 
 

IWC Schaffhausen and Hans Zimmer already collaborated in April 2022 for the launch of IWC’s TOP GUN collection. They also joined forces to organise two spectacular concerts in Dubai in January 2023. With this new collaboration, they continue their journey together.

ABOUT BRIAN COX 

Brian is Professor of Particle Physics at the University of Manchester, The Royal Society Professor for Public Engagement in Science and a Fellow of the Royal Society. Brian is widely recognised as the foremost communicator for all things scientific, having presented a number of highly acclaimed science programmes for the BBC watched by billions internationally including ‘Adventures in Space and Time’ (2021), ‘Universe’ (2021), ‘The Planets’ (2018), ‘Forces of Nature’ (2016), ‘Human Universe’ (2014), ‘Wonders of Life’ (2012), ‘Wonders of the Universe’ (2011) and ‘Wonders of the Solar System’ (2010). He also co-hosted popular astronomy and cosmology series ‘Stargazing Live’ with Dara O’Briain (and for ABC in Australia, with Julia Zemiro) and award-winning BBC Radio 4 series ‘Infinite Monkey Cage’, which has gone on to become one of the UK’s most popular podcasts. As an author, Brian has also sold over a million books worldwide including ‘Black Holes’, ‘Universal: A Guide to the Cosmos’, ‘Quantum Universe’ and ‘Why Does E=mc2?’ with co-author Professor Jeffrey Forshaw. Brian has undertaken several sell-out live world tours, setting several Guinness World Records, including for the biggest selling science tour – a record he himself broke with his most recent worldwide tour, ‘Horizons’, which took in venues in the UK, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and across Europe and was performed to hundreds of thousands of people across the world.

ABOUT HANS ZIMMER 

Hans Zimmer has scored more than 200 projects across every medium and has been honoured with two Academy Awards^®, three Golden Globes^®, three Grammys^®, an American Music Award, and a Tony^® Award. Work highlights include the scores for Dune, No Time to Die, Gladiator, The Thin Red Line, As Good as It Gets, Rain Man, The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Thelma and Louise, The Last Samurai, 12 Years A Slave, Blade Runner 2049 (co-scored with Benjamin Wallfisch) and Dunkirk, as well as recent film scores including Wonder Woman 1984, Ron Howard’s Hillbilly Elegy and The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run. In 2019, Zimmer also scored the live-action remake of The Lion King, for which he received a Grammy^® nomination for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media.

On the opening day of Watches and Wonders in Geneva, supermodel and IWC Brand Ambassador Gisele Bündchen visited IWC Schaffhausen at its booth. Upon her arrival, she was greeted by Chris Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen, and Franziska Gsell, CMO of IWC Schaffhausen. 
 

This year at Watches and Wonders, IWC launches its new Portugieser collection. With the introduction of new design codes and complications, IWC once again showcases its expertise in fine watchmaking. 
 

During her visit, Gisele, who will be part of the Portugieser campaign, toured the booth which this year is designed with the theme of “A Tribute to Eternity”. Reminiscent of the endless cycle of day and night, the booth showcases the new colours, Silver Moon, Horizon Blue, Dune and Obsidian. Each of which is uniquely reminiscent of the journey from dusk till dawn.
 

“It is a pleasure to be here with IWC at Watches and Wonders and see the beautiful new Portugieser collection,” states Gisele. Commenting on what “A Tribute to Eternity” means to her, she continued “Time is a special gift and using it wisely impacts what we leave behind for future generations. I chose to use my time to focus on my family, love, learning, health, and friendships.”

On the special occasion, Gisele wore the new Portugieser Chronograph (ref. IW371626) in Horizon Blue. The blue dial is intricately crafted and finished with 15 transparent layers, giving it a captivating visual depth. It is fitted with a gradient light blue calfstrap from Santoni and powered by the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre. Horizon Blue draws its inspiration from the serene yet vibrant blue hues of the early afternoon sky. When paired with the white-gold case, it gives the watch an underlying sense of lightness. This combination of colour and material gives the watch an elegant and refined look, making it a perfect choice for everyday use. Gisele explained what particularly draws her to the Horizon blue colour, “One thing that is important to me about selecting a watch is that it matches my personal style and is versatile. The Horizon Blue sparks a sense of the peace and calm when I wear it. As we all are busy with work and families, we need to remember time is precious and we must take a moment for ourselves.”
 

In 2022, IWC welcomed the Brazilian supermodel and philanthropist Gisele as a brand ambassador. The relationship was formed in recognition of the remarkable synergy of shared values and ambitions between the two. Throughout her career, she has become one of the most successful and recognisable supermodels in the world. Not only because she has been photographed by some of the most legendary photographers and walked the runways of the biggest fashion houses but also because of her work within sustainability. Gisele has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009. She has also been honoured by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to key environmental issues.

IWC Schaffhausen organised a day on the slopes for young skiers with brand ambassador Eileen Gu. It took place at the renowned Genting Snow Park in Zhangjiakou, China. The day began with the children and their parents watching the World Cup 2023 Halfpipe final, in which Eileen competed and won gold. In the afternoon, Eileen showed the children how to improve their ski form and skills, taking the time to help each skier personally. 
 

“I cherish the days I spend with the future generation of skiers, helping them improve their form and confidence. It is both inspiring and fun. On days like this, I look at my watch, and I am reminded how quickly time passes. I remember being a little kid on the slopes, learning my first tricks. So, thank you to my IWC family for helping me make every second of the day count,” says Eileen Gu. 
 

On the slopes, Eileen wore the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Lake Tahoe” (Ref. IW389105) powered by the IWC-manufactured 69380 calibre. The 44.5-millimetre case is made from hard and scratch-resistant white ceramic and fitted with a white rubber strap. The sleek design is completed with a pitch-black dial, black hands with white Super-LumiNova®, and a stainless-steel crown, pushers, and case back ring.

This marks the second ski class for children hosted by the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer and Eileen Gu this year, reinforcing their shared values and appreciation for sports. The classes are not only about improving skills; they are about celebrating sports, fostering confidence, and promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. Earlier this year, they hosted one in Aspen, Colorado, in the United States, where Eileen also personally trained with the children. 

EILEEN GU 

After taking home two gold medals and one silver at the 2022 Winter Olympics, freeskier Eileen Gu became the only action sports athlete to win three medals at the same Olympic games. This made her the youngest freeski Olympic Gold medallist in history. The teenager’s achievements on snow also include a slew of other record-breaking performances, including being the first snowsport athlete to ever win three medals at both the 2021 XGames and FIS World Championships. Eileen was also the first female freeskier to land a double cork 1440 and an unnatural double cork 1620 in competition. 
 

Eileen uses her voice to help foster cultural understanding and friendship through sports. As an ambassador for freeskiing in the US, China, and worldwide, she hopes to inspire young people, especially girls, to build confidence, break their own boundaries, and lead happier, healthier lives through sport. Named Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year 2023 and one of the TIME100 List of Most Influential People of 2022, Eileen has also been recognised for her efforts with the Vogue Aurora Award for female empowerment and the SuperELLE Youth Idol Award. As a cross-cultural bridge between the US and China, Eileen serves as a Global Ambassador for the Salt Lake City 2030 Olympic Bid. She has been a keynote speaker at the espnW Women in Sport Summit, received the “Next Gen” Award from Apex for Youth Organization and been named a Global Ambassador by the Asia Society of Southern California. Eileen is an accomplished student and fashion model with covers on Vogue, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, and L’Officiel, among others, and is recognised by the honour society for finishing her first year as a full-time undergraduate student at Stanford.

During Art Basel Miami, IWC Schaffhausen hosted a conversation with supermodel and brand ambassador Gisele Bündchen. Recognized for her influence in the fashion industry and beyond for almost three decades, Gisele shared her thoughts on the intertwined themes of time management, watches, and style. The intimate conversation was set against the backdrop of Miami Beach’s contemporary art museum, The Bass, known for embracing design, fashion, and architecture in its program. She was accompanied onstage by style and watch editor, Malaika Crawford. 
 

The conversation also focused on design with reference to watch designer and artist Gérald Genta. Earlier this year, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer introduced the Ingenieur Automatic 40. It draws design cues from Genta’s Ingenieur SL (Reference 1832) from the 1970s while meeting the highest standards regarding ergonomics, finishing, and technology. The collection encompasses one reference in titanium and three in stainless steel with respectively a black dial, a silver-plated dial, and an aqua dial. The Ingenieur Automatic 40 is powered by the IWC-manufactured 32111 caliber with a power reserve of 120 hours. All new models feature soft-iron inner cases to protect the movements from magnetic fields and are water-resistant to 10 bar.
 

Gisele’s favorite is the Ingenieur Automatic 40 (Ref. IW328903), thanks to the aqua dial. Considered a quintessential 21st-century sports watch, she explained why she loves this watch. As someone who is always on the go and has a schedule packed with different events, she appreciates the wearability and versatility of the watch. Made from stainless steel with an integrated bracelet, it is perfect for any occasion, be it casual or formal. It is the kind of watch one can build an entire outfit around or use as a finishing touch.
 

“With a packed schedule and always being on the move, I have learned to make the most of every hour,” said Gisele. “I like wearing my Ingenieur because it is beautiful and comfortable. You can wear it with anything, and it will look great.”
 

The event brought together the worlds of horology, style, and design, showcasing the mutual admiration between Gisele and IWC Schaffhausen. In 2022, Gisele joined the IWC family as a brand ambassador. The relationship is built on shared values and ambitions. Through her career, Gisele has become one of the most successful and recognizable supermodels in the world. Not only because she has been photographed by legendary photographers and walked the runways of the best-known fashion houses but also because of her work within sustainability. Gisele has been a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009. She has also been honored by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to key environmental issues.

IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-AMG have been partners since 2004, making their collaboration one of the longest running between a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer and an automotive engineering company. Ahead of the upcoming F1^TM race in Las Vegas, the partners joined forces to organise an exclusive event in the Las Vegas desert. To mark the occasion, they took over the famous Speedvegas racetrack and built a pop-up “Speed City”, a desert camp and entertainment venue. In the presence of dozens of guests, they celebrated their long-standing collaboration and shared passion for performance and design. 
 

The similarities and differences in the design processes for cars and watches were key topics in a panel discussion with Christian Knoop, Chief Design Officer at IWC Schaffhausen, and Robert Lešnik, Head of Exterior Design Department at Mercedes-Benz and responsible for the design of the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé. Interviewed by technology journalist and BBC presenter Lucy Hedges, the two professionals revealed stunning facts about what it is like to work as designers in their respective industries. Robert Lešnik detailed how design can be used to accentuate technical features of a car and which considerations went into the sporty-emotional look of the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé. Christian Knoop shared an in-depth look at IWC’s chronograph and materials expertise and explained how these competences came together for the development of the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41. IWC officially launched the new collection with four performance chronographs in titanium and Ceratanium® the day prior. 
 

Following the design talk, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1^TM Team drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell delivered a fantastic driving performance in the Mercedes-AMG GT Coupé. The action on the track was accompanied by a spectacular drone show supported by lights, illuminating the night sky above the Las Vegas desert and giving a glimpse of the upcoming night race in the “City of Lights”. Both drivers then joined Lucy Hedges and former F1^TM driver and IWC brand ambassador David Coulthard for an entertaining conversation, reflecting on the performance and giving an outlook to the upcoming night race.
 

To close off the event, Chris Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen, Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, and Toto Wolff, Team Principal & CEO of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1^TM  Team, joined the stage. They looked back on the successful and long-standing collaboration between the companies, and shared memories.

GUESTS EXPLORED THE POP UP EXHIBITIONS IN “ SPEED CITY” 

During the entire evening, the guests were invited to explore the many attractions at the “Speed City” venue in the Las Vegas desert. Among other things, they could visit an exhibition from Mercedes-AMG and learn more about the company’s range of performance cars. In addition, IWC set up a pop-up watch boutique with a curated selection of some of the most iconic watches from Schaffhausen. 

MERCEDES-AMG 

Mercedes-AMG is the performance and sports car brand of Mercedes-Benz Cars based in Affalterbach, Germany. Driven by the fascination of motorsports Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher founded the company in 1967. Since 2005 Mercedes-AMG GmbH has been a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler AG representing the sporting spearhead of the company with a wide range of models ranging from performance compact cars up to true sports cars like the AMG GT family. In contrast to large-scale production, Mercedes-AMG’s engines are assembled in Affalterbach according to the “One Man, One Engine” principle. AMG was born on the racetrack and is up to this day committed to “Driving Performance” in every detail, which is also expressed in every vehicle’s perceptible, innovative excellence. AMG – these three letters stand for supreme automotive performance, exclusivity, emotion, efficiency and highly dynamic driving pleasure and for exclusive encounters, contact points and collaborations for customers all around the globe. AMG continues to set benchmarks and, as a sub-brand of Mercedes-Benz, has the ambition to strengthen the product portfolio as a performance luxury brand. Currently, AMG is pushing the transformation of the company and redefining the Future of Driving Performance with electrified powertrains. 

MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS FORMULA ONE 

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team is the works team of Mercedes-AMG, competing at the pinnacle of motorsport – the FIA Formula One™ World Championship. Formula One is a sport like no other. Combining elite teamwork, cutting-edge technologies and innovation, high-performance management and exceptional driving skill, teams develop race cars capable of competing against their rivals in a high-octane environment that spans upwards of 20 races across five continents throughout each season. 
The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team, based across Technology Centres at Brackley and Brixworth in the United Kingdom, brings together over 1,000 dedicated and determined people that design, develop, manufacture and race the cars driven by seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton and Grand Prix winner, George Russell.  Winning seven consecutive double Drivers’ and Constructors’ World Championships from 2014 to 2020 and securing a record-breaking eighth consecutive Constructors’ Championship success in 2021, the Team is one of the most successful in the sport’s history. Between returning as a Constructor in 2010 and the end of the 2022 season, the Mercedes-AMG works team has scored 116 wins, 264 podium finishes, 128 pole positions, 91 fastest laps and 54 one-two finishes from 259 race starts.

On the occasion of the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix^TM, IWC Schaffhausen is launching a new collection of Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 models. These watches in titanium and Ceratanium^®, which feature tachymeter scales and highly intricate dial designs, are dedicated to IWC’s motorsport partners Mercedes-AMG and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One^TM Team. 
 

The new Performance Chronograph advertising campaign marks the first time the two drivers make a joint appearance with IWC. In several short video clips, Hamilton and Russell are shown on their way to Las Vegas, where they are to compete in the F1^TM race. They stop at a specially designed IWC boutique and ask for their new watches. A saleswoman operating a futuristic ordering system then hands them a watch box with the new Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41.
 

The boutique’s design draws on the stylistic elements of Googie architecture, which was popular in the United States from the 1940s to the 1970s. It was influenced by car culture, jets and the space age and often used for roadside businesses such as gas stations, motels and diners. These elements are blended with icons of American pop culture like a jukebox and science fiction-like retail technologies. The resulting timeless, exhibition-like space is a charming tribute to American “diner culture” and a lifestyle dedicated to the love of cars and personal mobility. 
 

The new Performance Chronograph campaign assets can be seen on IWC Schaffhausen’s Social Media channels, such as Instagram or YouTube:
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Not only on the slopes is freestyle skier and IWC brand ambassador Eileen Gu breaking all the records, but she is also enrolled as a student at the prestigious Stanford University and working as an internationally successful model. At the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, she won two gold medals and one silver medal, which also marked her first Olympic games. In May of this year, she also added the title of “Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year” to her accolades on her already impressive CV. Eileen is a tireless spokesperson for diversity and equal opportunities in sports. Using her voice as an elite athlete, she primarily hopes to inspire young women by giving them the courage to pursue their dreams.

ONE AUCTION LOT WITH TWO VERY SPECIAL IWC WATCHES

At the 2023 Laureus Charity Night, which takes place on 11^th November at the Zurich Convention Center, Eileen Gu and IWC Schaffhausen are auctioning one-of-a-kind watches. Obtainable for the highest bidders are two of Eileen Gu’s IWC watches that feature a unique engraving and have a special connection to the 20-year-old sporting star.  
 

The Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Lake Tahoe” turns heads with its 44-millimetre case made from hard and scratch-resistant white ceramic. This was the watch Eileen Gu wore for her first IWC photoshoot after she was made a brand ambassador for the Schaffhausen-based watch manufacturer in 2021. The design is inspired by the wintry landscape around the freshwater Lake Tahoe, which is where Eileen first took to her skis as a little girl.  
 

The second watch is the Portofino Automatic Day & Night 34. This classically elegant Portofino in stainless steel with a deep blue dial is studded with 66 diamonds. This is the watch that Eileen wore when she was named “World Action Sportsperson of the Year” at the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards Gala in Paris this May. There, she also met Laureus Chairman Edwin Moses and had the opportunity to speak with him about the foundation.  
 

“The white ceramic Pilot’s Watch Chronograph represents more than just the start of my journey with IWC Schaffhausen. The Lake Tahoe Edition also reminds me of the place where I discovered and nurtured my love for skiing. Since then, sports have taught me so much and altered my life in profound ways: they have taught me confidence, resilience, sportsmanship, and creativity. The Portofino Automatic Day & Night 34 was on my wrist when I received one of the most important awards of my career - Laureus’ Action Sportsperson of the Year. I hope that by auctioning off these pieces, we can make a contribution to the Laureus Foundation’s impactful philanthropic mission of supporting underserved young people through the power of sport,” explains Eileen Gu. 
 

The Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “Lake Tahoe” and the Portofino Automatic Day & Night 34 are engraved on the back with Eileen’s signature, making the two watches exclusive and unique timepieces. Alongside the watches, IWC and Eileen are auctioning a pair of freestyle skis in “Lake Tahoe” design from Swiss ski brand Faction Collective and a skiing weekend for two in the winter sports resort of Laax in Grisons, Switzerland.

DESIGN A WATCH AND DO GOOD AT THE SAME TIME

A first for Switzerland, IWC is also bringing its personalisation service for the Portugieser to the Zurich Convention Center. Guests will have the opportunity to visit a special stand in the foyer, where they can put together their version of the Portugieser Chronograph. As well as cases made from stainless steel or 18-carat 5N gold, there is a choice of 16 dial colours specially developed for this service. Every watch ordered will have “LCN 2023” printed on the see-through case back as a reminder of the special event. IWC will donate 3000 Swiss francs to the Laureus Foundation Switzerland for each stainless steel watch sold and 5000 Swiss francs for every 18-carat 5N gold watch sold.

LAUREUS FOUNDATION SWITZERLAND

The aim of the Laureus Foundation Switzerland is to enable children and young people to live a positive life full of self-determination through sports. Beyond sports and its associated values, Laureus also systematically promotes the integration and personal development of the young, as well as their physical and mental well-being. The main focus is not on achievement but rather on enjoying sports and shared experiences. The foundation helps young people who need support – regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religion, social class or health issues.  
 

Laureus supports over 23,000 children in Switzerland through seven charitable sports projects each year. The dedication of around 30 Swiss ambassadors, including cycling legend Fabian Cancellara, track athlete Mujinga Kambundji, skier Marco Odermatt and schwinger wrestler Christian Stucki, is a wonderful source of inspiration for all the children and young people involved. The Laureus Foundation Switzerland was established in 2006 by IWC Schaffhausen in collaboration with Mercedes Benz as part of the international Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

Reema Juffali is a source of inspiration and a role model to female racing drivers and athletes worldwide. She is the first-ever Saudi Arabian female racing driver, the first Saudi woman to hold a racing license, and the first to win an international motor race. On her visit to Schaffhausen, Juffali was welcomed at the company’s headquarters. Juffali, who joined the IWC family two years ago, then headed out to the IWC Manufakturzentrum, where she was given an extensive tour of the facility.

IWC’s new manufacturing centre was inaugurated in 2018 to mark the company’s 150^th anniversary. In this ground-breaking production facility, IWC has combined components making, movement assembly and case making in one place for the first time. The process from raw metal to finished watch movement or case is organised in logical and sequential steps, accompanied by tightly integrated quality management and sustainable production processes. Juffali jumped at the opportunity to talk to watchmakers and engineers, experiencing the making of an IWC watch first-hand. During her visit, Juffali wore the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 in stainless steel with a black dial on a steel bracelet. The chronograph in an ergonomic 41-millimetre case size boasts the typical design in the style of an easy-to-read cockpit instrument that has become the hallmark of IWC’s Pilot’s Watches. It is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre movement. The chronograph movement in a classic column-wheel design can be admired through the sapphire glass case back.

ABOUT REEMA JUFFALI

Reema Juffali was born in Jeddah on 18^th January 1992. She developed an interest in cars from a young age and made history in 2018 by becoming the first-ever female racing driver from Saudi Arabia. In 2021, she competed in the GB3 Championship before making her endurance racing debut at the 2022 Dubai 24 Hours, where she finished second. Juffali subsequently founded her own team, Theeba Motorsport, to facilitate Saudi Arabian access to and participation in motor racing through educational opportunities and programmes. The team made its first appearance in the 2022 International GT Open where it secured victory at its debut – an achievement which made Juffali the first Saudi woman to win an international motor race – before scoring a vice championship title in the series’ Pro-Am class. Juffali was recently named one of the world’s most inspiring and influential women by the BBC in 2022.

Lewis Hamilton is not only one of the most accomplished athletes in motorsport, but he has also earned a reputation for his distinctive personal style and iconic outfits. The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team driver often pushes the boundaries with his fashion choices, embracing bold colours, patterns, and original designs. The IWC brand ambassador has now joined forces with IWC Chief Design Officer Christian Knoop and his team again to design his third special edition timepiece.

The Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph Lewis Hamilton (Ref. IW394008) features a 43.5-millimetre case made of platinum, the rarest, purest and most precious of all metals. The whitish sheen of platinum perfectly complements the rich tealcoloured dial embellished with 12 sparkling diamonds. With slightly recessed displays for the chronograph and the retrograde date, the elaborately finished dial has a sculptural look. It also features the seven-time F1™ world champions’s logo, resembling a panther’s eyes. The timepiece is fitted on a matching textile strap with a folding clasp.

The eye-catcher on the dial is the flying hacking minute tourbillon at 6 o’clock. French for “whirlwind”, the tourbillon consists of the balance wheel rotating around its axis in a small cage. Not only does this constant rotation provide a visual spectacle on the dial but it also reduces the influence of gravity on the oscillating system, increasing the watch’s accuracy. Thanks to the integrated tourbillon stop, the mechanism can be brought to a complete halt, allowing the wearer to set the time with down-to-the-second accuracy. Consisting of 56 individual parts and weighing in at only 0.675 grams, the delicate mechanism is incredibly challenging for a watchmaker to assemble.

The Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph is powered by the IWC-manufactured 89900 calibre, which also features a chronograph function. The stopped hours and minutes are displayed on one counter at 12 o’clock, making the elapsed time easy and intuitive to read. Another feature is the retrograde date display. The pallet lever and escape wheel are made of silicone and feature a diamond coating. This so-called Diamond Shell^®, technology reduces friction and improves the flow of energy in the movement, contributing to a generous power reserve of 68 hours. The movement components such as the bridges are gold-plated and can be admired through the sapphire glass back. This marks the first time IWC has produced a gold-plated movement since the legendary “Il Destriero Scafusia” from 1993.

THE THIRD SPECIAL EDITION SINCE 2014 

The Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph Lewis Hamilton is the third timepiece designed in a collaboration between IWC and Lewis Hamilton. The first was the Ingenieur Chronograph Edition Lewis Hamilton (Ref. IW379602) with a titanium case and bracelet in 2014. On the case back, this edition featured a piece of carbon fibre from an original racing car. In 2019, Hamilton and IWC joined forces again to create the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition “Lewis Hamilton” (Ref. IW503002). This Big Pilot’s Watch combined a black ceramic case and a Burgundy dial with a crown and case-back ring made of 18-carat 5N gold.

Following his participation in the WST Lausanne Street 2023, IWC Schaffhausen welcomed Friend of the Brand, Skateboarding World Champion and Olympic Medallist, Jagger Eaton to its hometown. He is currently competing as the dual threat in the men’s Street and Park disciplines for the US. Appearing with his usual positive attitude and cool style, Eaton showed up with a skateboard in hand and an IWC watch on his wrist. 
 

The grand tour started at IWC’s headquarters and museum in the heart of Schaffhausen to learn more about the brand’s unique heritage and products. Located next to the Rhine River, the river has played a significant role in the history of the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer – and continues to do so. Just several kilometres from the headquarters, the tour continued at the IWC Manufakturzentrum before concluding at the famous Rhine Falls. 
 

The Manufakturzentrum opened in 2018 in celebration of the brand’s 150th anniversary. The state-of-the-art facilities combine component production, case-making and movement assembly all under one roof. While touring the facilities, Eaton got to experience the sequential steps from raw materials to finished watch movements and cases up close. 
 

IWC and Eaton are both believers in learning by doing, so Eaton put on his watchmaker coat, rolled up his sleeves and got to work on an IWC movement. Also, not one to ever pass on an opportunity to skate, he went for a ride through the manufactory centre and performed a few manoeuvres outside. 
 

Speaking about the visit, he said, “It has been nothing short of amazing seeing the level of attention to detail, craftsmanship and engineering that goes on behind every single IWC watch. It is not every day a guy from Mesa, Arizona gets to go Schaffhausen, Switzerland and tour the incredible IWC manufactory centre – let alone skate through it! This is exactly what drew me to IWC to start with; they have such a rich heritage and an unmatched horological expertise, but they still allow themselves to be a bit playful.” 
 

To commemorate the visit to the Swiss luxury manufacturer’s hometown, IWC gifted him a specially made skateboard. Featuring an original Inkdial drawing of Eaton’s Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 TOP GUN Ceratanium^®, the skateboard was manufactured by his long-term board partner, The Heart Supply.

Eaton wore his Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 TOP GUN Ceratanium^® (Ref. IW388106) that is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre. Made from patented Ceratanium^®, it is as tough and almost as light as titanium yet similarly as hard and scratch resistant as ceramic. The matte black case is complemented by a black dial and for a personal touch, Eaton fitted it with a yellow EasX-CHANGE^® system rubber strap. With the subdued white luminescent hands and detailing, the timepiece offers excellent readability regardless of the hour of the day.

JAGGER EATON

Born in 2001 to owners of a skatepark in Arizona, Jagger Eaton has been skating since the ripe age of four. With support from his family, he quickly realised his passion for skating. His remarkable versatility in both street and park skateboarding has helped cement his career as a professional skateboarder. Eaton is a Skateboarding Olympic Medallist and recently became the only athlete to win the World Championships in Street and Park. This secured his position as the first competitor on the USA Skateboarding National Team to compete in both disciplines. Apart from being a great competitor, Eaton is fully committed to community give-back initiatives. Understanding the impact that his family’s skatepark had on his own career, he wants to make skateboarding more accessible to kids. This ambition is reflected in his work with the skateboard brand, The Heart Supply, and their non-profit initiative. Eaton joined the IWC family in 2023.

2023 saw the challenging hill climb between Langwies and Arosa take place for the 19^th time. Over the last few years, the internationally renowned event, which brings together motorsport and action in the spectacular setting of the Bündner mountains, has become one of the most well-known events beyond Switzerland’s borders. The racetrack, which is situated at around 1800 m above sea level, offers spectators pure entertainment. Over a distance of 7.3 km, the drivers must navigate 76 turns and overcome an altitude difference of 422 m.  IWC Schaffhausen is a partner of Arosa ClassicCar. 
 

IWC AMBASSADOR LAURA KRAIHAMER: DYNAMICS AND ELEGANCE 
Last weekend, professional racing driver Laura Kraihamer steered the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” effortlessly and elegantly around the racetrack for the IWC Racing Team. With her flair for precision, technology and elegance, she perfectly exhibits IWC’s essential values. The IWC ambassador wore a Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 (Ref. IW388102) with a blue dial in Arosa. This Pilot’s Watch, in the classic design of a cockpit instrument, boasts a stainless-steel case with a compact diameter of 41 mm and is driven by the precise IWC-manufactured calibre 69385. “Concentration is an important factor on such a winding route. And it goes without saying that I don’t just want to be fast, I want to drive gracefully too,” explained a visibly satisfied Laura Kraihamer after the race. This is the third time she has driven for the IWC Racing Team in Arosa. In 2022, she was at the wheel at the ICE in St. Moritz and, in 2021, at the Goodwood Members’ Meeting (UK). Her and the historical “Gullwing” make a strong team every time. 
 

FANS OF HISTORIC RACING CARS ARE ENTHRALLED BY THE “GULLWING” 
In 2023, around 180 registered vehicles, including some real classics, completed the race route in Arosa. Historic racing and sports cars are allowed to participate in this event and acted as real crowd-pullers, attracting a large number of enthusiastic spectators to Arosa again this year. Since 2018, the IWC Racing Team has taken part in historic race events with a Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing” from the year 1956. When the elite of international classic cars meets in Switzerland, the elegant “Gullwing” certainly earns its place among them.

IWC Schaffhausen has always been committed to supporting sports and encouraging people to feel the extraordinary value and charm of sports and competition. Yesterday, brand ambassador Eileen Gu visited IWC’s flagship boutique in Taikoo Hui Mall for a conversation about their shared values, appreciation for sports and visions for future generations. During the talk, she explained the common denominators between sports and IWC’s engineering of timepieces – both deeply rooted in passion and pursuit for excellence. 
 

“Sport is a unique avenue for people to connect through a shared passion, to break limits and to improve their self confidence, resilience, and creativity – for kids and girls in particular. It is a cause that is integral to building a better future, and one that my IWC family believes in just as much as I do,” stated Eileen Gu.
 

Ned Wills, Managing Director of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation joined the talk and congratulated Eileen on her recently winning the “Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year” award at the 2023 Laureus World Sports Awards. He shared more about the work of Laureus Sport for Good and the organisation’s long-term partnership with IWC. Valuable insights were also given by him, highlighting the importance of solidarity for a better future. “When forward-thinking people and organisations like Eileen Gu, IWC and Laureus unite, they can ignite real change for not only the sports community but also a better future for all. We can achieve greatness alone – but together, anything is possible,” said Ned Wills. 
 

After the talk, they explored the boutique together with other distinguished guests. Spanning over 300 m2, it is the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s largest flagship boutique. From the collection displays and Portugieser Chronograph customisation studio to the Airspeeder Mixed Reality flight and the Big Pilot Bar, the boutique allows visitors to become fully immersed in the IWC universe. Alongside IWC’s Pilot’s Watches, Portugieser and Portofino collections, the IWC Laureus special edition timepieces are displayed. Since 2006, IWC has issued special edition timepieces in honour of Laureus Sport for Good.
 

Eileen appeared wearing the IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 (Ref. IW659602). At just 37.1 millimetres, the elegant timepiece has an 18 carat 5N gold case, diamond-set bezel and moon phase display. It is powered by the IWC-manufactured 32800 calibre with a 120-hour power reserve which can be admired through the sapphire glass back. Perfectly complementing the case, it has a traceable taupe-coloured Swiss calfskin strap featuring the quick-change system.

EILEEN GU 

After taking home two gold and one silver medal at the 2022 Winter Olympics, freeskier Eileen Gu became the only action sports athlete to win three medals at the same Olympic games. This made her the youngest freeski Olympic Gold medallist in history. The teenager’s achievements on snow also include a slew of other record-breaking performances, including being the first snowsport athlete to ever win three medals at both the 2021 XGames and FIS World Championships. Eileen was also the first female freeskier to land a double cork 1440 and unnatural double cork 1620 in competition. 
 

Eileen uses her voice to help foster cultural understanding and friendship through sports. As an ambassador for freeskiing in the US, China, and worldwide, she hopes to inspire young people, especially girls, to build confidence, break their own boundaries, and lead happier, healthier lives through sport. Named one of the TIME100 List of Most Influential People of 2022, Eileen has also been recognised for her efforts with the Vogue Aurora Award for female empowerment and the SuperELLE Youth Idol Award. As a cross-cultural bridge between the US and China, Eileen serves as a Global Ambassador for the Salt Lake City 2030 Olympic Bid. She has been a keynote speaker at the espnW Women in Sport Summit, received the “Next Gen” Award from Apex for Youth Organization and been named a Global Ambassador by the Asia Society of Southern California. Eileen is an accomplished student and fashion model with covers on Vogue, ELLE, Harper’s Bazaar, Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, and L’Officiel, among others, and is recognised by the honour society for finishing her first year as a full-time undergraduate student at Stanford.

LAUREUS SPORT FOR GOOD FOUNDATION 

Laureus is a global movement that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of children and young people. In 2000, Laureus’ founding patron Nelson Mandela said, “sport has the power to change the world”, and these words have become the philosophy of Laureus and the driving force behind its work. Since 2000, Laureus Sport for Good has used the power of sport to overcome violence, discrimination and inequality, changing the lives of over six and half million children and young people. The foundation currently supports more than 300 programmes in over 40 countries and territories.

With almost half her life spent playing professional football, Sam Kerr has dedicated her career to football and successfully so. She currently plays as a forward for Chelsea Football Club and is the captain of the Australia women’s national team. Widely recognised as one of the best forwards of all time, Kerr is the only female player to have won the Golden Boot in three leagues and on three continents. 

Kerr’s front-facing role is one that she has fully embraced and thanks to her family, she has done so humbly. Known for citing how her family has played a vital part in her career, Kerr often credits them for helping her stay grounded. As her career continues to flourish, so does the change she is pushing for in sports. An active advocate for equality in sports, she encourages everyone to be themselves and come together to achieve greatness. Kerr has co-authored an inspiring collection of children’s books about everything from sports and following one’s dreams to friendships, school, and dealing with bullies. 

“I am excited to represent IWC because it is a company that celebrates those who follow their dreams,” states Kerr. “Throughout my career, I have always stayed true to myself which is something IWC and I have in common. Whether it is through sports or engineering watches, we strive for excellence by doing things our own way.” 

She is as decorated off the field as she is for her achievements on it. In 2018, she was honoured with the Young Australian of the Year award and a Medal of the Order of Australia for her “service to football” in 2022. She is Australia’s greatest goal-scorer and a record five-time recipient of the PFA Australian Women’s Footballer of the Year award. Not only a national treasure, her list of international achievements includes three ESPY Awards for Best International Women’s Soccer Player and two FWA Women’s Footballer of the Year awards.

As an athlete, Kerr is particularly drawn to the IWC chronographs – from the sporty Pilot’s Watch to the stylish Portugieser and classic Portofino. With a history deeply rooted in professional instrument watches, the 69000 calibre is the newest IWC-manufactured movement to come from the decades-long expertise. It is engineered for performance and distinguished by its robustness, precision, and accuracy, making it the quintessential mechanical stopwatch. Amongst Kerr’s preferences are the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 (Ref. IW388110) and the IWC Portugieser Chronograph (Ref. IW371611). The 41-millimetre timepieces are respectively powered by the 69385 and 69355 calibres. Housed in 18 carat 5N gold cases, both movements can be admired through the sapphire glass backs. While the pitch green Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 might be the obvious choice for a football star, Kerr is known for having her own style and opted for a personalised version of the Portugieser Chronograph. She fitted it with a durable rubber strap in burgundy, giving the elegant timepiece a modern twist. Kerr explained how it just popped on her wrist and felt like the perfect sidekick for the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup^TM – both on and off the football field.

Every year, Laureus celebrates the achievements of the most outstanding sportswomen and sportsmen at the Laureus World Sports Awards. First held in 2000, the event honours the greatest sporting triumphs of the year. The shortlists for the seven categories are created by votes from more than 1000 sports media, and the winners are selected through secret ballot votes by the members of the Laureus World Sports Academy – an illustrious group of sporting legends. Taking place at the Pavillon Vendôme in Paris, the ceremony marked the return to a physical format after two years of virtual presentations due to the global pandemic. During the event, Eileen Gu wore the Portofino Automatic Day & Night 34 with a charming day & night complication. 

EILEEN GU HANDED OVER A SPECIAL MEDAL

Ahead of the award show, Eileen Gu handed over a special medal to Edwin Moses, Chairman of Laureus Sport for Good US. The Olympic legend took the medal on behalf of Olivia Époupa, who could not be there in-person, to highlight her impressive achievements in basketball. A professional basketball player in the FIBA EuroLeague Women today, Olivia Époupa is a former participant in the Laureus-supported “Paris Basket 18” programme. The programme uses basketball to empower young girls and women, give them more self-confidence and enhance their education. Eileen Gu created the medal during her recent visit to the IWC Manufakturzentrum in Schaffhausen, utilising the same sophisticated processes IWC employs to manufacture its high-quality mechanical timepieces.

ANOTHER MILESTONE IN AN INCREDIBLE CAREER

Laureus created the “Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year” award to honour outstanding achievements of athletes from the world of action sports. At 18, Eileen Gu became the youngest Olympic champion in freestyle skiing after winning three medals at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. The teenager’s achievements on snow also include a slew of other record-breaking performances, including being the first snowsport athlete to ever win three medals at both the 2021 XGames and FIS World Championships. She was the first female freeskier to land a double cork 1440 and unnatural double cork 1620 in competition. 

But Eileen Gu is not only an accomplished athlete. She is also a successful fashion model and a student of science at the renowned Stanford University in California. Thanks to her unique combination of skills, passion and determination, Eileen Gu is the perfect embodiment of a modern, multifaceted woman and an inspiring role model for girls and young women worldwide.

LAUREUS USES THE POWER OF SPORT TO DO GOOD

In addition to honouring the most outstanding athletes of the year, the Laureus World Sports Awards also shine a spotlight on the work of the Laureus Sport for Good, a global movement that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of young people. The foundation currently supports more than 300 programmes in over 40 countries and territories. IWC has been a global partner of Laureus Sport for Good since 2005. The partnership with Laureus underscores the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s commitment to community engagement and having a positive impact on society.

LAUREUS SPORT FOR GOOD FOUNDATION 

Laureus is a global movement that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of children and young people. In 2000, Laureus’ founding patron Nelson Mandela said, “sport has the power to change the world”, and these words have become the philosophy of Laureus and the driving force behind its work. Since 2000, Laureus Sport for Good has used the power of sport to overcome violence, discrimination and inequality, changing the lives of over six and half million children and young people. The foundation currently supports more than 300 programmes in over 40 countries and territories.

On the second day at Jungle Plaza, IWC teamed up with Laureus Sport for Good and Dibia DREAM to organize a day focused on empowering girls. IWC has been a global partner of Laureus since 2005, supporting its mission to use the power of sport to help young people around the world. During the day, Dibia DREAM organized different activities for children involving recreational education in sciences, technology-related fields, engineering and mathematics (STEM). IWC then invited representatives from Laureus to an inspirational talk about empowering the next generation through STEM education. They were joined on stage by Jagger Eaton, two-time skateboarding World Champion and Olympic Medalist. Jagger Eaton was recently announced as the newest brand ambassador.

During the discussion hosted by Rachelle Patel, the Laureus USA Director of Marketing & Partnerships, Jagger Eaton revealed the inspiration he received from the day’s activities with kids. Known for his raw talent, perseverance and confidence, the young athlete talked about how skateboarding taught him the essential life lesson to get right back up after a fall and try again. Drawing on his ability to always believe in himself and never give up, Jagger Eaton won the bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games in Men’s Skateboarding Street despite competing with a broken ankle.

Olympic legend Edwin Moses, a founding member of the Laureus World Sports Academy, then shared more information about the work of Laureus Sport for Good and the organization’s long-term partnership with IWC. Valuable insights were also added by Rachelle Patel, who highlighted the importance of educational projects for underserved youth and explained Laureus’ support for Dibia DREAM. After the talk, Jagger Eaton gave the kids on site a demonstration of his skateboarding skills and answered their questions.

Jagger Eaton and IWC share many core values, such as their dedication to pushing the limits of what can be achieved. Understanding the impact that his family’s skatepark had on his own career, Jagger Eaton is fully committed to community give-back initiatives and wants to make skateboarding more accessible to kids. IWC also believes in investing in strong, healthy communities and empowering young people. Community engagement, therefore, forms an integral part of IWC’s sustainability efforts.

LAUREUS

Laureus is a global movement that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of children and young people. In 2000, Laureus’ founding patron Nelson Mandela said ‘sport has the power to change the world’, and these words have become the philosophy of Laureus and the driving force behind its work. Since 2000, Laureus Sport for Good has used the power of sport to overcome violence, discrimination and inequality, changing the lives of over six and half million children and young people. Laureus Sport for Good currently supports more than 275 programmes in over 50 countries and territories.

DIBIA DREAM 

Founded in 2014, Dibia DREAM provides a safe place after school, on the weekends and in the summer with caring, responsible role models and engaging activities. Dibia DREAM was created to spark social change through hands-on, engaging STEM education for historically underserved youth and their families. Over 40,000 scholars worldwide have engaged with the nonprofit in-person or online. Its programs use STEM and sports as instruments to teach life skills and promote mentorship, active participation, and exposure to diverse opportunities through its 5 pillar program. The goal is to enrich youth across the world through transformative experiences. 

IWC Schaffhausen celebrates its return to Miami with a takeover of Jungle Plaza in the city’s Design District. For the “IWC Chrono Challenge,” the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer created a spectacular set-up with a full-sized basketball court. In the background, a giant mural depicts IWC brand ambassador Lewis Hamilton wearing the just-announced Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ team watch featuring a Miami Pink rubber strap.

The “IWC Chrono Challenge” marked the first of several events at this impressive outdoor venue and saw two teams competing against each other in three different basketball skill challenges. “Team Pink” was led by seven-time Formula One™ world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton, who was joined by IWC brand ambassador and American actor James Marsden and former professional football player Antrel Rolle. Canadian actor and author Simu Liu, IWC brand ambassador and American Olympic skateboarder Jagger Eaton and Dibia DREAM founder and CEO Brandon Okpalobi formed the opposing “Team Green.”

THREE BASKETBALL SKILL CHALLENGES

In the first challenge, players had to dribble and jump towards the basket, trying to achieve as many layups as possible in 60 seconds. Next, the competitors attempted to score as many free throws as they could in a 30-seconds beat-the-buzzer challenge. Finally, two players took turns shooting from several defined spots on the court. For each ball landing in the basket, they received one letter to spell out the word “Chrono” – a playful reference to the recently-launched chronograph. F1™ legend David Coulthard hosted the event, supported by former college basketball athlete and Laureus USA Program Officer Tiffany Aidoo. IWC brand ambassador and Hollywood actress Monica Barbaro was responsible for keeping the score and the exact timekeeping of the challenges. 

On the court, the players of “Team Pink” were wearing the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ team featuring a Miami Pink rubber strap. IWC recently introduced this eye-catching new strap color in a bundle with the green strap to celebrate its return to Miami and also ten years of longstanding collaboration with the team. Pink details will also be featured on the driver’s gloves and shoes during race weekend. “Team Green” sported the chronograph on a green rubber strap. The timepiece in a light and rigid grade 5 titanium case was originally launched at last year’s Miami Grand Prix™ in a bundle with a green rubber strap and a black calfskin strap, It is the first official team watch IWC has produced for its partner, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ team.

IWC AND DIBIA DREAM

For the basketball challenge, IWC once again collaborated with Dibia DREAM, a nonprofit organization sparking social change through STEM education and sport for underserved young people in Miami. IWC has been supporting Dibia DREAM since 2022 through their global partnership with Laureus. Kids from Dibia DREAM programs participated in the warm-up and supported the players as ball girls and boys during the challenge.

The IWC basketball court will remain on Jungle Plaza until Friday. During the takeover, members of the public can register for Basketball Clinics. Dibia DREAM will also organize different educational activities for children. Following the event in Miami, IWC will donate the basketball court to Dibia DREAM and the City of Miami. In addition, IWC will be using a systemized approach to repurpose the mural vinyl into new products such as tote bags, that will be donated to the community and employees.

DIBIA DREAM 

Founded in 2014, Dibia DREAM provides a safe place after school, on the weekends and in the summer with caring, responsible role models and engaging activities. Dibia DREAM was created to spark social change through hands-on, engaging STEM education for historically underserved youth and their families. Over 40,000 scholars worldwide have engaged with the nonprofit in-person or online. Its programs use STEM and sports as instruments to teach life skills and promote mentorship, active participation, and exposure to diverse opportunities through its 5 pillar program. The goal is to enrich youth across the world through transformative experiences. 

LAUREUS 

Laureus is a global movement that uses the power of sport to transform the lives of children and young people. In 2000, Laureus’ founding patron Nelson Mandela said ‘sport has the power to change the world’, and these words have become the philosophy of Laureus and the driving force behind its work. Since 2000, Laureus Sport for Good has used the power of sport to overcome violence, discrimination and inequality, changing the lives of over six and half million children and young people. Laureus Sport for Good currently supports more than 275 programmes in over 50 countries and territories.

Jagger Eaton represents a new generation of young skateboarding talent. Born in 2001 to owners of a skatepark in Arizona, Eaton has been skating since the ripe age of four. With support from his family, he quickly realized his passion for skating. His remarkable versatility in both street and park skateboarding has helped cement his career as a professional skateboarder. Eaton recently became the only athlete to win the World Championships in street and park. This secured his position as the first competitor on the USA Skateboarding National Team to compete in both disciplines. In 2012, he set the record back then as the youngest competitor ever to compete in the X Games, as well as the youngest winner of the coveted Tampa Am (2014). He was also the only American athlete to podium in the Men’s Skateboarding Street discipline in the sport’s Olympic inauguration at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics Games. 

“I am excited to join IWC as their first skateboard athlete. I resonate a lot with the brand because, like IWC, I always push myself but never forget where I came from. I still recall the exact moment I knew I wanted to skateboard professionally. Although it has not been without its challenges, I have always remembered to enjoy the ride. Moments like these are a testament to hard work and that it pays off to believe in oneself,” says Jagger Eaton. 

His impressive list of achievements also includes winning gold and silver in Men’s Street at the X Games in Minneapolis (2017 and 2018); silver in Men’s Park in Minneapolis (2019); a Tampa Pro win (2018); and gold in Men’s Park at the X Games in Chiba (2022). 

Apart from being a great competitor, Eaton is fully committed to community give-back initiatives. Understanding the impact that his family’s skatepark had on his own career, he wants to make skateboarding more accessible to kids. This ambition is reflected in his work with the skateboard brand, The Heart Supply, which annually gives away skateboards in hopes of putting them under as many new feet as possible. Eaton also participates in their non-profit initiative that goes to Xala, Mexico multiple times a year and engages in reforestation efforts to offset the impact of hardwood skateboards. 

Today, Eaton visited the IWC boutique in San Diego, California to pick up his all-black IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 TOP GUN Ceratanium^® (Ref. IW388106). Made from the patented Ceratanium^®, it is as tough and almost as light as titanium yet similarly as hard and scratch-resistant as ceramic. “For skateboarding, you need to be resilient just like this watch. That is what this piece and I have in common – we are both practically unbreakable and scratch-resistant,” said Eaton with a wink. The timepiece features hands and detailing with luminescent material in a subdued white. Powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 caliber, the chronograph movement is a classic column-wheel design with a day and date display at 3 o’clock. It is completed with a rubber strap with textile inlay. 

During her trip to Schaffhausen, Gu had the opportunity to experience the watchmaking process firsthand during a tour of the manufacture and had lunch overlooking the world-famous Rhine Falls. IWC Chief Marketing Officer Franziska Gsell was on hand to accompany Gu during the visit, which followed the Olympic medallist’s debut appearance at the Watches and Wonders show on Wednesday. 
 

“I am thrilled to join IWC Schaffhausen on home ground this week,” explained Gu. “It has been so interesting to experience the reality behind the legendary ‘Made in Schaffhausen’ pledge. Seeing the watchmakers’ passion and expertise as they carefully craft each watch has been amazing. I also enjoyed visiting the Rhine Falls and hearing how its waters powered the original factory, a fascinating foreshadowing of the sustainable ethos driving IWC today.” 
 

IWC has produced mechanical watches in Schaffhausen since 1868 and opened a new manufacture in the Swiss city in 2018 to mark its 150th anniversary. A groundbreaking facility, the IWC Manufakturzentrum combines component production, case-making and movement assembly all under one roof. Organised in sequential steps, the process from raw materials to finished watch movements and cases can be experienced up close with transparency. 

At Schaffhausen, Gu wore the recently-released Portofino Perpetual Calendar (Ref. IW344602). Launched in November 2022, it is the first time a perpetual calendar has featured in the Portofino collection in decades. At just 40 millimetres, it is also the smallest version of the complication in IWC‘s portfolio. Gu‘s 5N Gold version has a silver-plated dial, gold-plated hands and appliques and a soft, blue calfskin leather strap. It is powered by the IWC-manufactured 82650 calibre movement and will run without adjustment until 2100.

ABOUT EILEEN GU
Born in 2003, Eileen Gu is a champion freestyle skier, a successful fashion model and a student at the prestigious Stanford University. Gu started recreational skiing at age three before delving into freestyle skiing when she was eight. Freeski is an action-packed extreme sport that involves spectacular acrobatic skills like flips, spins and slides. She became the youngest Olympic champion in her category at Beijing’s 2022 Winter Olympics after winning two gold medals and a silver medal. Most recently, she participated in January’s Winter X Games in Aspen and the Freestyle Ski World Cup in Calgary.

During her visit, Gu toured IWC’s booth, which this year has a retro-futuristic look dedicated to the latest reimagining of the Ingenieur watch. First developed in the 1950s as a homage to technical ingenuity, the Ingenieur collection is characterised by the Swiss luxury watchmaker’s passion for engineering, material innovation and style. The new editions are inspired by Gérald Genta’s design from the 1970s, considered one of the most iconic steel sports watches ever created.
 

After CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr welcomed her, Gu was handed an ‘Ingenieur coat’, similar to the lab jackets worn by IWC’s watchmakers, in a symbolic nod to the brand’s engineering know-how. The Olympic medallist was then taken on a tour where she had the opportunity to learn more about the new Ingenieur editions and the ‘FORM UND TECHNIK’ premise of the booth and campaign. She was also presented with some of IWC’s newest chronographs from the Pilot’s Watches, Portugieser and Portofino collections..
 

“It’s incredible to be here at Watches and Wonders in Geneva with IWC today,” explained Gu. “The design of the booth is so impressive, and to have the chance to see and touch all the new watches has been super interesting. In addition, absorbing the Ingenieur story this way has given me an even greater understanding of the collection’s meticulous engineering and astonishing technicality.”

During the event, Gu wore the Portofino Automatic Day & Night 34 (Ref. IW659802). Featuring a luxurious 18 carat 5n gold case decorated with 66 light-reflecting diamonds, a silver-plated dial and a taupe calfskin leather strap, the design is a declaration of understated femininity. Moreover, it is the first 34-millimetre Portofino to feature IWC’s intricate day & night complication. Full of poeticism, this charming addition sees an expertly-crafted sun or the moon appearing on the dial at 6 o’clock to indicate if it is day or night.
 

Following her appearance at Watches and Wonders, Gu is now expected to accompany IWC back to Schaffhausen for her first visit to the watchmaker’s Manufakturzentrum on Thursday.
 

ABOUT EILEEN GU 

Born in 2003, Eileen Gu is a champion freestyle skier, a successful fashion model and a student at the prestigious Stanford University. Gu started recreational skiing at age three before delving into freestyle skiing when she was eight. Freeski is an action-packed extreme sport that involves spectacular acrobatic skills like flips, spins and slides. She became the youngest Olympic champion in her category at Beijing’s 2022 Winter Olympics after winning two gold medals and a silver medal. Most recently, she participated in January’s Winter X Games in Aspen and the Freestyle Ski World Cup in Calgary.

Zimmer has scored over 200 projects, including some of the most successful films of our time. He has been honored with two Academy Awards®, three Golden Globes®, three Grammys®, an American Music Award, and a Tony® Award. 

In 2022, IWC teamed up with Zimmer to create original music inspired by the ceramic colors used by the luxury watch manufacturer for five monochromatic watch designs which were added to the TOP GUN Pilot’s Watches collection. For the unique project, titled ‘The Sound of Color’, Zimmer composed five pieces of music, one for each color: IWC “Ceratanium®”, “Mojave Desert”, ”Woodland”, “Lake Tahoe” and “Jet Black”.

During the 2022 Watches and Wonders exhibition, Zimmer conducted a performance of the suite of tracks at an exclusive event at Geneva’s Théâtre du Léman in Switzerland. This weekend’s Dubai concerts are the first time Zimmer is performing in the Middle East and, on this occasion, is celebrating the continuation of his close partnership with IWC. 

“It’s been such a thrill to bring the show to Dubai,” explained Zimmer after finishing his performance. “Being on stage to play my music with the orchestra, live band, and dancers is always an extraordinary privilege. To do so in partnership with IWC here in this amazing city has felt particularly special, and I look forward to returning soon.”

Last year, IWC opened one of its flagship boutiques in the Dubai Mall, representing its innovative ‘new retail’ concept that blurs the traditional boundaries between a physical boutique and a digital experience. 

During both performances, Zimmer wore his IWC Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar TOP GUN Ceratanium® (Ref. IW503604). Part of the TOP GUN collection, the watch is the first to feature a bracelet fully made from Ceratanium®, an innovative material developed by IWC. This patented material is as tough and almost as light as titanium yet similarly, it is as hard and scratch-resistant as ceramic. As well as its optimum material properties, what characterizes Ceratanium® is its matte black color. The watch also features IWC’s iconic perpetual calendar complication which can be operated simply via the crown. Developed in the 1980s by former head watchmaker Kurt Klaus, its ingeniously arranged parts will continue to run without manual intervention until 2100.

Gu joined the IWC family in August 2021 and became the youngest Olympic champion in freestyle skiing after winning two gold medals and a silver medal at Beijing’s 2022 Winter Olympics. As well as being a sought-after model and student at the prestigious Stanford University, the skier is a powerful advocate for improving representation and inclusion in her sport and is driven by a desire to inspire millions of young kids to pursue their ski dreams.

In addition to her university studies in California, Gu remains dedicated to her freestyle career and is currently hard at work training for the upcoming Winter X Games in Aspen taking place from 29th – 31st  January. After nearly a year away from the slopes, Eileen confirmed her status as the favourite with a double victory last week at the Freestyle Ski World Cup in Calgary (21st January) catapulting her to the top of the overall rankings. By organising a memorable and fun day on the Colorado slopes alongside young skiers from the local Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club and IWC local partner Meridian Jewellers, IWC Schaffhausen has combined both of Gu’s passions: skiing and empowering the next generation to excel in the sport.

“I was so excited to spend the day on the mountains with this group of incredible skiers!” explained Gu. “So much about skiing comes down to confidence. It’s a super personal and expressive sport, so the more time you devote, the more it pays off in your ability. It was fantastic to share my passion – and some tips and tricks – with the young men and women here. I hope they will be inspired to follow their dreams.”

While in action on the mountain, Gu chose to wear IWC Schaffhausen’s Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN in Jet Black (Ref. IW389101), with its black ceramic 44.5-millimetre case, black dial, black hands and black textile strap. 

Later she swapped her watch to wear a Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 (Ref. IW388102). This modern take on a classic design has an elegant stainless-steel case in a compact 41-mm size, a blue dial, and an IWC-manufactured movement. Exemplifying the performance, innovation, and technical excellence of IWC’s legendary Pilot’s Watches, the Chronograph 41 also features IWC’s EasX-CHANGE® system, enabling the wearer to adapt their watch swiftly to different surroundings. With such a contemporary and versatile design, it’s the ideal choice for adventurers, athletes, fashion pioneers, and bright young talents, just like Gu

Before motorsport’s elite gather for the final F1 Grand Prix™ race of the 2022 season on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit, IWC Schaffhausen invited brand ambassador Lewis Hamilton for a ride around Dubai. His driver and tour guide was no other than Alexandra Hirschi, known by millions of car enthusiasts worldwide as “Supercar Blondie.” The Australia-born content creator has been calling Dubai home for many years, which is known as one of the most attractive and exciting destinations around the world for tourism, trade and luxury. Driving down the famous Sheikh Zayed Road and passing many iconic landmarks, the two discussed Dubai’s association with cars and culture while sharing insights into their relationship with the city and recalling their most memorable experiences there.

After arriving at the Dubai Mall, Hamilton was welcomed to the flagship boutique by IWC CEO Chris Grainger- Herr and former F1™ star and brand ambassador David Coulthard. In the entrance area, the 7-time world champion was reunited with the Mercedes-AMG F1™ W12 E Performance, his race car from the 2021 season. The car is exhibited in the boutique, underscoring its strong thematic focus on racing and engineering. The group then walked over to the “Engineering wall”, where they admired a selection of iconic racing watches that IWC created in collaboration with its longstanding motorsport partners. Among these were the “Lewis Hamilton” Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition with a burgundy dial, and the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team,” the official team watch that was launched at the Miami GP™ earlier this year. Finally, they headed to the “Big Pilot Café” for a well-deserved pit stop.

THE NEXT LEVEL OF LUXURY WATCH RETAILING

IWC’s innovative “new retail” concept blurs the traditional boundaries between a physical store and a digital experience. Interactive features and services enable visitors to immerse themselves into the IWC universe in an unprecedented way, taking luxury watch retailing to a new level. The first flagship boutique with this concept was opened in September 2020 in Zurich, Switzerland. The centrepiece of “IWC Racing Works” is the IWC Racing Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing,” the official race car of the IWC Racing Team. The Dubai boutique then marked the second “new retail” flagship. Designed in the functional aesthetic of the Big Pilot’s Watch, it was opened in March 2022 and focuses on IWC’s longstanding connection to the worlds of motorsport and racing. For example, the Central Exhibition Area explores IWC’s partnerships with Mercedes-AMG and the Mercedes- AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ team, while the Engineering Wall lets visitors deep-dive into IWC’s engineering heritage and comprehensive materials expertise. Just a few weeks ago, IWC opened its third “new retail” flagship boutique at the Taikoo Hui Mall in Shanghai, China.

The Italian racer, affectionally known as ‘Il Dottore’ by fans around the world, retired from motorcycle racing in 2021. During his 26-year career, Rossi won a record-breaking nine World Championships and claimed 235 podiums and 115 race wins. In 2022, the 43-year-old switched to the GT World Challenge Europe, starting a new chapter on four wheels. Just recently, at the Laureus World Sports Awards 2022 in Seville, Rossi received the Laureus Sporting Icon Award, which further underscored the exceptional nature of his career. At the occasion of Laureus Charity Night in Zurich, Rossi will also officially join the IWC family. The Italian athlete has been associated with the brand since last year and also made an appearance at an IWC Signature Talk at Watches and Wonders Geneva in April.

The watch up for auction is the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar TOP GUN Ceratanium® (Ref. IW503604). It was worn by Rossi during many of his key milestones. Equipped with IWC’s legendary perpetual calendar, it features a case and bracelet made of Ceratanium®. This IWC-developed performance material is nearly as light and tough as titanium and almost equally as hard and scratch-resistant as ceramic. With a case diameter of 46 millimetres, the Big Pilot’s Watch was the perfect fit for Rossi, as he used to race with the number 46. ‘Il Dottore’ will also invite the winning bidder to witness the ‘100km dei Campioni’, a motorcycle race which is held every year at his legendary VR46 Motor Ranch in Tavullia, Italy.

“This IWC watch has a high personal value for me. I wore it for the first time in Valencia, Spain, during my last MotoGP race. Since then, this unique timepiece has accompanied me in all sporting activities I have experienced during this year of change, and also in everyday life. Whoever takes it home will get an object that has experienced a great number of important and meaningful moments with me,” explains Rossi.

A MASTERPIECE OF HAUTE HORLOGERIE
In addition to auctioning Rossi’s Big Pilot’s Watch, the Laureus Charity Night will also feature a silent auction of one of the most complex watches ever made by IWC Schaffhausen: the Portugieser Tourbillon Hand-Wound (Ref. IW546305). A masterpiece of Haute Horlogerie, it was donated by a collector and long-time friend of the Laureus Foundation Switzerland, whose wish is to support the Foundation’s projects for the advancement of girls. All proceeds from the watch’s auction will go to the Foundation’s programmes focusing on young women.

The timeless and elegant Portugieser model features a 43.2 millimetre case crafted of solid 18-carat 5N gold and a distinctive blue dial with a flying minute tourbillon at 9 o’clock. The balance wheel, pallet and escape wheel are placed in a tiny cage that constantly rotates around its axis, helping to minimise the effects of gravity on the oscillating system. Instead of being held by an upper bridge, the tourbillon is held from one side, allowing a better view of the delicate mechanism, which consists of 56 parts and weighs only 0.635 grams. 

This year’s Laureus Charity Night will take place in Zurich on 5th November and will collect charitable contributions for the further promotion of social sports programmes under the theme of ‘The future is now’.

LAUREUS FOUNDATION SWITZERLAND
The Laureus Foundation Switzerland was founded in 2006 by IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-Benz as part of the international foundation Laureus Sport for Good. It works to enable children and young people to live a positive life of self-determination through sports, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, social class or health issues. Promoting the integration and personal development of the young and their physical and mental well-being, Laureus places its primary focus not on achievement but on enjoying sports and shared experiences. It supports over 20,000 children in Switzerland through charitable sports projects each year.

In 2013, IWC Schaffhausen became the Official Engineering Partner of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team. In February 2022, both brands announced a multi-year extension of their partnership. For the first time, the collaboration also extends off-track, as IWC became an official sponsor of the Mercedes- AMG PETRONAS Esports Team. Now, the three partners collaborate to organise their first joint virtual racing event.

The “iRacing Esports Sim Challenge” will be disputed virtually on the Silverstone racetrack. Ahead of the challenge, George Russell and Jarno Opmeer call for potential teammates to join their teams. F1™ and Esports fans from the UK can register and have the unique chance to secure a slot on one of the teams. The final participants will qualify based on their fastest time during a “fastest lap challenge”. The final “iRacing Esports Sim Challenge” will take place on 17th November at the new IWC boutique at the Battersea power station in London and will be broadcasted globally on the live-streaming platform Twitch.

To mark the official launch, George Russell and Jarno Opmeer got behind the wheel of the team’s Esportsrigs at its headquarters in Brackley to test their driving skills on the iconic Silverstone racetrack.

George Russell explained: “Marginal gains in a race are everything. Suppose you can gain 50 milliseconds at every corner, equating to a whole second in a lap. So, if you think you are way back or off pace, break it down corner by corner, and psychologically, it makes things slightly easier. Whilst I won’t be able to make it to the challenge in person as I’ll be in Abu Dhabi ahead of the race weekend, I can’t wait to cheer on my team from the sidelines.”

Jarno Opmeer mentioned the importance of maintaining focus: “Staying focused for the full duration of the race is very hard; think about your strategy and your time over your competitors. I always try to focus on the task at hand and not the pressure. Then, if you make mistakes, it’s a chance to recognise what went wrong and not do it again.”

Detailed information about the registration process can be found here*:  https://watches.iwc.com/iRacing-Esports-sim-challenge 

*Terms and conditions apply.

MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS FORMULA ONE™ TEAM

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team is the works team of Mercedes-Benz, competing at the pinnacle of motorsport - the FIA Formula One™ World Championship. Formula One™ is like nothing else in the sporting sphere. It’s a demanding technical and human challenge, combining cutting-edge technologies and innovation, high-performance management and elite teamwork. At Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team, a group of passionate and determined people work to design, develop, manufacture and race the cars driven by seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton and young star George Russell. The team has set a new benchmark for F1™ success during the sport’s current Hybrid era, winning consecutive Drivers’ and Constructors’ World Championships in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, and the Constructors’ Championship in 2021. During those title-winning seasons, the team has scored 111 wins, 232 podium finishes, 118 pole positions, 81 fastest laps and 53 one-two finishes from 160 race starts.

MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS ESPORTS TEAM

The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Esports Team is the esports team of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1™ Team. Based on the premises of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team, Brackley, a purpose-built esports training centre provides the team’s gamers with world class facilities and state-of-the- art equipment from our Esports partners, to develop their skills, train and compete.

On his first visit to the city of Schaffhausen, IWC CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr, Chief Design Officer Christian Knoop and Chief Marketing Officer Franziska Gsell welcomed George Russell to the IWC Manufakturzentrum. The new manufacturing centre was inaugurated in 2018 to mark the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s 150th anniversary. In this ground-breaking new facility, IWC has brought together components making, movement assembly and case making under one roof. The process from raw metal to finished watch movement and case is organised in logical and sequential steps and can be experienced up close and transparently. During the visit, Russell spoke to IWC watchmakers and engineers and experienced the watchmaking and design process first hand. He also took the opportunity to learn more about IWC’s unique heritage and sustainable production methods. During his visit, Russell was wearing the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One™ Team” (Ref. IW388108). IWC and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team launched the first official team watch on the occasion of the Miami Grand Prix™ earlier this year.

ABOUT GEORGE RUSSELL 

Born in Kings Lynn, England in 1998, Russell began his racing career in karting in 2006. Over the next decade, he became an MSA British Cadet Champion, British Open Champion, Super One British Champion and CIK-FIA European Junior Champion, to name just a few. In 2017, he joined Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Motorsport’s junior driver programme, then graduated to Formula One™ with Williams Racing in 2019. Russell earned his first points for Williams at the 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix™, before qualifying second and claiming his first Formula One™ podium finish at the race in Belgium. In 2022, he embarked on a new chapter in his career by joining his teammate at Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One™ Team, Lewis Hamilton, as a fellow IWC brand ambassador.

Gisele Bündchen embodies elegance and sustainability like no other. Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009, she has also been honoured by renowned academic institutions such as Harvard University for her longstanding commitment to key environmental issues. However, Bündchen is rather known as one of the most successful supermodels in the world. Throughout her 27-year career, she has been photographed by legendary photographers and walked the runways of the best-known fashion houses. Following her appointment as IWC’s very first Environmental and Community Projects Advisor, the manufacturer has chosen Bündchen to be the face of its new Portofino campaign.

In the campaign, Bündchen wears different watches from the new Portofino collection. Among them is the new Portofino Chronograph 39 (Ref. IW391502), which combines the classic and elegant Portofino design with a sporty chronograph complication in an easy-to-wear case size of 39 millimetres. The chronograph features a stainless steel case, a silver-plated dial, and rhodiumplated hands and appliques. The IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre movement powers the watch. This robust and precise chronograph movement in the classic column-wheel design enables the measurement of stop times of up to 30 minutes and can be admired through a sapphire glass case back. In addition, the chronograph is fitted with a beige strap made of fully traceable Swiss calf leather. Thanks to the integrated quick-change system, the timepiece can easily be paired with a casual or elegant outfit.

COMPREHENSIVE UPGRADE OF THE COLLECTION 

As part of a comprehensive upgrade of the Portofino line, IWC Schaffhausen introduces new Portofino models in 34 millimetres and 37 millimetres. The Portofino Automatic 34 collection has been enhanced with new colours, calfskin straps, and a newly engineered metal bracelet. The new Portofino Automatic Day & Night 34 enchants with its charming day and night complication. The Portofino Automatic 37 and Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 feature self-winding movements from the IWC-manufactured 32000 calibre family with a power reserve of 120 hours and sapphire glass case backs. As for the diamond-set bezels, the case geometry has been optimized to accommodate larger diamonds. They now reflect the light better thanks to the improved setting.

The Portofino Chronograph 39 is available through IWC boutiques, authorised retail partners or online at IWC.com. In addition, the timepiece is eligible for registration under the My IWC care program and can benefit from a 6-year extension to the standard 2-year International Limited Warranty.

A SHARED PURPOSE: PARTNERING WITH GISELE BÜNDCHEN 

IWC welcomes environmentalist and supermodel Gisele Bündchen as the brand’s first ever Environmental & Community Projects Advisor. Since 2009, Gisele has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program, engaging with causes that advocate for biodiversity and wildlife. She has been honoured by Harvard University and UCLA for her longstanding commitment to environmental issues. 

When IWC carried out the materiality analysis for their latest Report, they identified Biodiversity and Communities as two crucial areas to accelerate their efforts. Gisele will bring her experience with these causes and her passion for protecting the planet to IWC’s sustainability projects. She will also support the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer identifying initiatives to work on in the future.

Commenting on the partnership with IWC, Gisele stated: “I’m excited to partner with IWC on our shared purpose of protecting our planet. Our sustainability journeys both started with the realisation that we had a responsibility to do more. That we could use our voices and influence to make a positive impact on the environment and society. I look forward to working together with IWC to help leave a better future for generations to come.”

PROGRESS ON IWC’S 2022 SUSTAINABILITY TARGETS 

IWC began their sustainability journey over a decade ago and the precision, passion and persistence that goes into their watchmaking helps drive their sustainability efforts. Watches produced by IWC are sustainable by default, cherished and handed down to the next generation. In 2020, the Company set nine targets to accomplish by 2022. Despite the pandemic, they have achieved many of their goals and made considerable strides in others. 

• Achieved RJC’s Chain of Custody (CoC)certification of watch components: a voluntary standard that certifies that the gold and platinum used in their supply chain are traceable and responsibly sourced; 
• Switched to purchasing 100% renewable energy globally; 
• Maintained a ‘Great Place to Work®’ certification; 
• Achieved EQUAL-SALARY certification in Switzerland; 
• Developed and piloted a blueprint for sustainable events. 
• Developed and implemented a more sustainable IT strategy, focusing on our hardware.

IWC are on track to achieve the following by the end of 2022: 

• Phase out the purchase of non-FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified forestry products (e.g. paper, cardboard, wood, furniture); 
• Double IWC’s annual corporate volunteering hours compared to a 2020 baseline; 
• Double the number of women in managerial positions compared to a 2017 baseline. 

In other key developments since 2020, IWC: 

• Launched TimberTex™ straps in 2021: produced in Italy, these straps use 80% plant-based fibres- sustainably sourced from European forests; 
• Eliminated single-use plastics at their headquarters and boutiques; and 
• Continued to partner with organisations around the world, such as Laureus Sport for Good and Save the Children, to drive societal change.

INTRODUCING MIRATEX™,  A BREAKTHROUGH PLANT-BASED ALTERNATIVE TO LEATHER 

Following the introduction of paper-based TimberTex straps in 2021, IWC is proud to announce the launch of its revolutionary MiraTex™ straps, a first for the market. IWC’s MiraTex™ straps are made with MIRUM®, a biobased, plastic-free, circular material that meets IWC’s rigorous standards of durability, flexibility and aesthetic beauty. 

A portmanteau combining miracle and textile, MiraTex™ was engineered in close collaboration with Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), a material innovation company. Composed of plants and minerals including FSC certified natural rubber, fillers including cork powder and mineral colorants, NFW’s MIRUM® does not contain any petrochemicals or plastic. Eliminating the tanning process, MIRUM® is much less resource-intensive to produce than animal and synthetic leather, thereby giving it a low carbon footprint. MIRUM® is also 100% recyclable and circular. 

For more information about IWC’s MiraTex™ straps, please consult the backgrounder “MiraTex™: a Sustainable and Circular Innovation”.

A NEW PURPOSE: ‘ENGINEERING BEYOND TIME ’ 

The IWC 2022 Sustainability Report is part of the Company’s continued efforts to being fully transparent about the progress towards their sustainability goals. 

Consult the IWC 2022 Sustainability Report here: https://www.iwc.com/en/company/sustainability-at-iwc.html

To further increase transparency and regularly engage stakeholders in their journey, IWC has announced an annual rather than biannual cadence for the Report. This year’s edition provides an update on IWC’s ongoing sustainability journey, based on a new purpose, ‘Engineering beyond time’, upheld by the pillars of Transparency, Responsibility and Circularity. 

TRANSPARENCY - Engineering beyond perception 

This pillar demonstrates IWC’s belief that an open and honest dialogue with all stakeholders enables the company to see where they stand, where they can improve and which goals they need to set to continue their journey. This is supported by their commitment to annual reporting, partnerships with credible companies and associations, and adhering to recognised international standards. 

CIRCULARITY - Engineering beyond precision 

This pillar displays the longevity of IWC’s timepieces, which are timeless in style and function and are handed down through the generations. IWC maintains each and every watch made in Schaffhausen for as long as someone enjoys wearing it. This is underscored by their commitment to the lifetime servicing of their watches even for vintage pieces, use of recycled steel and gold, and re-usability of their products and packaging. 

RESPONSIBILITY - Engineering beyond sustainability 

This pillar reflects the fact that IWC creates a product that is perpetual by nature. Manufacturing their watches as responsibly as possible inspires them to exceed and pursue even more ambitious goals. This is underpinned by the company’s commitment to traceable sourcing, carbon footprint reduction and investment in biodiversity projects. 

Finally, the Report is now lighter and more engaging, a departure from the previous 60-page document to an easy-to-read magazine. The Report uses storytelling as well as clear and straightforward language to invite readers into IWC’s sustainability journey. IWC’s Sustainability Report is prepared with reference to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards.* 

Read more about IWC’s vision, purpose and latest activities in the Sustainability Report 2022 here: https://www.iwc.com/en/company/sustainability-at-iwc.html

GISELE BÜNDCHEN: A CAREER OF CARING 

Throughout the course of her 27-year career, Bündchen has been photographed by legendary photographers and walked the runways of the world’s most esteemed fashion houses. She has been the face of countless global campaigns and graced the covers of more than 1,200 magazines around the globe, including TIME, Forbes, and Rolling Stone, and top fashion publications Vogue, V, W, ELLE, and Harper’s Bazaar, among many others. 

She is the author of the New York Times bestselling book, Lessons: My Path to a Meaningful Life, in which she shares personal stories and insights that have helped her live a more conscious and joyful life. 

Gisele is known for her passionate commitment to sustainability and environmental conservation. With a uniquely global reach, Bündchen uses her influence to bring attention to our planet and how society can collectively work to protect it. She has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations nvironmental Program since 2009. She has been honoured by Harvard University and UCLA for her longtime commitment to environmental causes and also received the Best Green International Celebrity Award by the Green Awards. 

Bündchen’s professionalism, dedication and passion make her a formidable advocate for environmental and social causes.

*ABOUT THE GLOBAL REPORTING INITIATIVE 

The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) provides the world’s most widely used framework for sustainability reporting.It offers a structured format to share information coherently and comprehensively about material issues, performance metrics and the management of sustainability-related issues.

IWC Schaffhausen, the inventor of colored ceramic watches, has launched a new TOP GUN collection in its iconic Pilot’s Watches family. Inspiration from the world of naval aviation, such as the fascinating landscapes seen by TOP GUN pilots during training, was expressed through PANTONE® color codes. Based on these, IWC engineered completely new ceramic colors to create timepieces in a strikingly monochrome, muted design. Now, the Swiss luxury watchmaker has unveiled a global advertising campaign to accompany the new TOP GUN designs.

A CHAMPION FOR THE CAMPAIGN

The campaign stars American football quarterback Tom Brady, who has been an IWC brand ambassador since 2019. Brady has won seven World Championships, more than any other quarterback in American Football history, and 18 Division Titles so far in his unparalleled career. Yet, despite having achieved so much and having nothing left to prove, he keeps challenging himself and pushing to new heights. These character traits match the new campaign’s tagline, “We’re not here to try – we’re here to do,” making Brady the perfect choice to represent the TOP GUN mindset.

In the fast-cut short films, Brady wears the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN in black, sand-colored, green, and white ceramic. Different edits of the four films will feature on IWC’s global social media channels and YouTube.

Hans Zimmer has scored more than 200 projects across every medium and has been honoured with two Academy Awards®, three Golden Globes®, three Grammys®, an American Music Award, and a Tony® Award. Work highlights include the scores for Dune No Time to Die, Gladiator, The Thin Red Line, As Good as It Gets, Rain Man, The Dark Knight trilogy, Inception, Thelma and Louise, The Last Samurai, 12 Years A Slave, Blade Runner 2049 (co-scored with Benjamin Wallfisch) and Dunkirk, as well as recent film scores including Wonder Woman 1984, Ron Howard’s Hillbilly Elegy and The SpongeBob Movie: Sponge on the Run. In 2019, Zimmer also scored the live-action remake of The Lion King, for which he received a Grammy® nomination for Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media.

In what marks one of the first collaborations between a Swiss luxury watch manufacturer and a film music composer, IWC Schaffhausen and Zimmer have teamed up to bring a unique project to life: “The Sound of Color”. For the newly launched TOP GUN Pilot’s Watches collection, IWC’s creative specialists engineered five striking new ceramic colors and created timepieces in stunning, monochromatic designs. Zimmer then took these colors as the starting point for his musical composition, creating five pieces of music, one for each color: The Sound of Color – IWC Ceratanium®, The Sound of Color – IWC Mojave Desert, The Sound of Color – IWC Woodland, The Sound of Color – IWC Lake Tahoe and The Sound of Color – IWC Jet Black. The music adds a surprising and original new dimension to each, expressing each emotionally through sound.

 “What I love about music is the playful element and the opportunity to try out things I have not done before,” explained Zimmer. “I enjoyed creating sounds with IWC because it was quite different from my work on films. Writing music is always about telling a story and taking people to new places, whether inspired by a moving picture or a color, and this was no different.”

AN ENGINEERING APPROACH TO CREATING MUSIC 

The collaboration between IWC and Zimmer is founded on shared values. Just as IWC fosters an engineering approach to watchmaking, he uses a technology-driven approach to composing music. Cutting-edge technology enables him to push the boundaries and venture into unchartered territories of sound. In his studio in Santa Monica, California, he has assembled a unique system of synthesizers and samplers, allowing him to electronically compose and arrange his music without ever writing a single note. He also travels to the most unusual places to record new samples or builds custom-made instruments for a specific purpose. What also sets Zimmer’s work apart is his collaborative approach. He works in a unique creative environment, surrounded by fellow composers and musicians. Together, they experiment with new sounds and samples and continuously challenge each other to create extraordinary new film music.

WORLD PREMIERE IN GENEVA TONIGHT 

The debut performance of the music Zimmer created for IWC took place tonight at an exclusive event held at the Théâtre du Léman in Geneva. In a concert titled “The Sound of Color”, the band also performed major hits from the composer’s incredible career, which already spans more than four decades. The event was organized as part of the Watches and Wonders exhibition and was not open to the public.

Hamilton, considered to be the most successful Formula One™ driver in history, races for IWC’s longstanding partner, the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. As well as his seven world titles, he holds multiple records within the sport including most race wins - and is an important advocate for greater global equality. One of his most recent endeavors is Ignite, a joint charitable initiative set up by the Briton and his Formula One™ team to improve diversity and inclusion in motorsport. IWC will work with the team to define and deliver a meaningful contribution to Ignite.

Rossi called time on his incredible 26-year motorcycling career in 2021. A global icon, he won a record-setting nine championships in 125cc, 250cc, 500cc and MotoGP^TM and claimed 235 podiums and 115 race wins during his career on two wheels. In 2022, the Italian 43-year-old is switching to four wheels for a new chapter, competing in this season’s ten-round GT World Challenge Europe.

DIFFERENT CATEGORIES, SAME UNASSAILABLE TALENT 

The starting point for the Signature Talk began with a reminder of a particular moment in 2019 when Rossi drove Hamilton’s Formula One™ car, and the Briton rode the Italian’s MotoGP^TM bike to great success in Valencia, Spain. The two racing legends discussed their memories of that day, how they felt making the switch from four wheels to two and vice versa, and why they believed they could make the swap between two entirely different vehicles look so effortless. From there, the conversation covered the transferable ‘meta skills’ of racers, their career highlights, as well as their mutual respect and friendship.

ONCE A PILOT, ALWAYS A PILOT 

Later in the conversation, the two elite ‘pilots’ on terra firma also shared their thoughts on aviation, particularly supersonic jets, comparing the feeling of ultra-fast flight with the physical and psychological experiences they undergo when moving at speed in the cockpit or on the bike. Lastly, the two greats discussed what skills and character traits it takes to compete at an elite level and what vehicle they would choose to be their ‘ultimate ride’. The video of the live talk is available on https://www.iwc.com/ch/en/specials/videos-2022.html.

MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS FORMULA ONE 

Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team is the works team of Mercedes-Benz, competing at the pinnacle of motorsport – the FIA Formula One™ World Championship. Formula One is like nothing else in the sporting sphere. It’s a demanding technical and human challenge, combining cutting-edge technologies and innovation, high-performance management and elite teamwork. At Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team, a group of passionate and determined people work to design, develop and manufacture the cars driven by seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton and young star George Russell. The team has set a new benchmark for F1 success during the sport’s current Hybrid era, winning consecutive Drivers’ and Constructors’ World Championships in 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020, and the Constructors’ Championship in 2021. During those title-winning seasons, the team has scored 111 wins, 232 podium finishes, 118 pole positions, 81 fastest laps and 53 one-two finishes from 160 race starts.

The new campaign pairs the skiing prodigy with the new Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41. This modern take on a classic design has a stainless-steel case in a compact 41-mm size, blue or green dial and an in-house movement. Exemplifying the performance, innovation and technical excellence of IWC’s legendary Pilot’s Watches, the Chronograph 41 also features a quickchange strap system, enabling the wearer to adapt their watch swiftly to different surroundings. With such a contemporary and versatile design, it’s the ideal choice for adventurers, athletes, fashion pioneers, and bright young talents, just like Gu.

Shot in a skateboard park and featuring action-packed imagery of Gu on a board, the new campaign is candid and challenging. In the TV spot, footage of Gu skating in the park and on the slopes is combined with her talking directly to the camera, asking the viewer to rethink preconceptions and push for their dreams, whatever they may be. She explains, “Our stage is not the future. Our stage is now”, as she speaks to her modern and multi-faceted generation.

In the campaign, Gu demonstrates perfectly the talent and determination she relies on in her career, expressing herself with confidence and passion. Joining the world of freestyle skiing when she was just eight, Gu has broken one record after another over the past decade, most recently becoming the first woman to land a forward double cork 1440 in 2021. She is currently enjoying an extraordinary competitive run, taking first place six times and second place twice in her last eight World Cup competitions in the US and Canada and becoming the first skier ever to win four consecutive freestyle World Cup competitions.

Eileen’s commitment stretches far beyond her achievements in sport or modeling. From the start of her career, she has made it a priority to be a voice of change and an activist for women’s empowerment, as well as a positive role model for the younger generation. She aims to inspire millions of young people to pursue their dreams and live meaningful lives a goal this new campaign perfectly encapsulates.

The IWC Racing Team celebrated its comeback at Goodwood this weekend. The team’s last appearance on the legendary Goodwood Motor Circuit dates back to April 2019, when former Formula 1^TM star David Coulthard lead the IWC Racing 300 SL to first place in the Tony Gaze Trophy. This year, Austrian racing driver Laura Kraihamer was behind the wheel of the iconic sports car. Kraihamer, who races in DTM Trophy events and forms part of KTM’s car development and engineering team, lined up on the grid in the Stirling Moss Trophy.

Also witnessing the racing action at the 78th Goodwood Members’ Meeting in the South of England were many members of the global IWC family, such as F1^TM legend David Coulthard and British racing driver Billy Monger. They connected virtually to chat with guests at an event hosted by Philip Rathgen at IWC’s manufacturing center in Schaffhausen, turning the Members’ Meeting 2021 into a hybrid event with physical and digital activations.

While the life-sized 300 SL lined up on the grid on Sunday, its 1:64 scale die cast replica took centre stage the day before, when IWC and partner Hot WheelsTM launched the “IWC x Hot Wheels^TM Racing Works” collector’s set. Limited to 50 pieces, it contains the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “IWC x Hot Wheels^TM Racing Works” and the Hot Wheels Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Racing Works Edition”, presented in a metal toolbox. Set 1 of 50 is currently being auctioned for charity by international auction house Bonhams, with the proceeds going to the Two Bit Circus Foundation. This Foundation wants to create learning experiences for children to inspire entrepreneurship, encourage young inventors and instill environmental stewardship. Lovers of mechanical watches and car culture are invited to place their bids online until 22^nd October at: www.bonhams.com/auction/27446.

ABOUT THE MEMBERS’ MEETING

The Goodwood Members’ Meeting is an epic weekend of motor racing founded by the Duke of Richmond, which aims to recreate the atmosphere and camaraderie of the original BARC Members’ Meetings held at Goodwood throughout the 1950s and 1960s. As well as a full programme of racing, the Members’ Meeting features all kinds of cars from classic tin-tops and GTs, to motorcycles and open wheeled Formula 3^TM and F1^TM machines, offering visitors a friendly and intimate atmosphere with no crowds, thanks to being exclusively available to GRRC Members and Fellowship. A winning formula of spectacular cars, high-speed track demonstrations, fun-packed festivities and great entertainment; along with the very best food and drink. Joining the GRRC Fellowship is the only way to become a full GRRC Member.

As a teenager, Eileen Gu has accomplished more than many others have in a lifetime. Born in 2003 in San Francisco to an American father and a Chinese mother, she is a rising Freeski star, a successful fashion model and an aspiring university student. She started recreational skiing aged three, before delving into the world of freestyle skiing when she was eight. Freeski is an action-packed extreme sport that involves spectacular acrobatic skills like flips, spins and slides. Her most significant achievement to date came at the X Games 2021 in Aspen, Colorado, where she made history as the first rookie woman ever to win three medals. Just two months later, she claimed three more medals at the FIS Freestyle World Ski Championships.

To prepare for competitions more effectively, Eileen set herself the goal of finishing high school quicker. She eventually graduated after completing two school years in the time of one. Recently, she saw her dream come true after being accepted to Stanford University. As if all this were not enough, the young athlete has also launched a modelling career. She has graced the covers of many international magazines and was invited to major fashion events in Paris and New York. With such an impressive résumé, it comes as no surprise that Forbes China made her the youngest person ever to make it on to the influential “30 Under 30” list.

But Eileen is not only committed to succeeding as an athlete and model. From the very onset of her career, she has made it a priority to be a voice of change and an activist for women’s empowerment. Having been the only girl on her ski team for many years, Eileen is highly aware of issues like representation and inclusion. Using her voice as an athlete and her Asian-American background, she aims to inspire millions of young girls and kids to get into skiing and pursue their dreams.

“I always believed sport has no boundaries. It’s one of the best vehicles to unite people, promote understanding, forge friendships, and create bridges between cultures. With IWC, I share the absolute will to achieve perfection and the clear focus on excellence – values also represented by the other talented athletes in the brand’s universe. I am looking forward to our collaboration,” says Eileen Gu.

IWC’s new campaign pairs Lewis Hamilton with the Big Pilot’s Watch, underscoring the unique status of both. First introduced to the luxury market in 2002, the Big Pilot’s Watch has evolved into a modern design icon and an expression of a distinct mindset. Today, it is the timepiece of choice for cultural creators, bold entrepreneurs and people who go their own way to pursue their vision. Having journeyed from being an athlete who focused on chasing records in his sport to becoming a ‘driver of change’, Hamilton perfectly matches this profile. He is using his platform more and more to speak up about social issues, including issues relating to diversity and inclusion in his sport. In the campaign, Hamilton wears several timepieces from the new collection: The Big Pilot’s Watch 43, the Big Pilot’s Watch TOP GUN Edition ‘Mojave Desert’, the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar and the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41.

MISAN HARRIMAN ANNOUNCED AS IWC BRAND AMBASSADOR

The campaign imagery was shot by renowned photographer Misan Harriman. Born in Nigeria, Harriman was raised in the UK and recently made history by becoming the first black person in the 104-years of British Vogue to shoot the cover of the magazine’s September issue. Entirely self-taught, he has documented many recent defining moments in history and is known for his unique narrative and reportage style. IWC is pleased to announce that Harriman will join its circle of brand ambassadors. The British photographer also appears in IWC’s digital Big Pilot’s Watch campaign. In a short video available on the brand’s digital channels, he talks about milestones in his career and his love for the Big Pilot’s Watch. IWC has also released a conversation between Harriman and Hamilton, in which they discuss the Formula OneTM driver’s incredible career, his passion for fashion and music, and his role as a social activist.

Link to watch Misan Harriman’s IWC digital Big Pilot’s campaign: https://watches.iwc.com/misanigtv

Link to watch the conversation between Misan Harriman and Lewis Hamilton: https://watches.iwc.com/misanxlewis

Every year, IWC and Laureus Sport for Good celebrate the achievements of sportsmen and women at the Laureus World Sports Awards. This year’s ceremony was hosted by Paz Vega, one of Spain’s great international actors and a native of host city Seville. Vega, who has starred in countless European and Hollywood movies, wore an IWC Portofino Automatic 34 (Ref. IW357401).

During the evening, seven-time Formula One^TM World Champion Lewis Hamilton was presented with the Laureus Athlete Advocate of the Year Award. This award celebrates the work of athletes who have harnessed their power and influence as elite sportsmen and women to bring change to the world around them and who have inspired a new generation to tackle inequality and injustice. Hamilton clinched a record-equalling seventh Drivers’ Championship late last year, driving for IWC’s longstanding partner, the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team. The Briton’s remarkable achievements on the track have been matched by his increasingly powerful stance on racial justice and social and environmental issues.

As well as honouring brilliant sporting performances, the annual awards ceremony also shines a spotlight on the work of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, which currently supports more than 250 projects in over 40 countries. This year’s ceremony highlighted inspirational stories about those who have worked tirelessly to combat the effects of the pandemic over the course of the last year and highlighted the recent advocacy work of sportsmen and women, who have used their influence and power to transform lives beyond sport.

IWC has been a longstanding partner of Laureus Sport for Good since 2005. The winners on the night are chosen by the votes of the 71 members of the Laureus World Sports Academy.

LAUREUS SPORT FOR GOOD

In 2019, approximately 300,000 young people around the world benefitted from more than 200 projects supported by Laureus Sport for Good in over 40 countries; programmes that use sport to promote social change and put an end to violence, discrimination and disadvantage. Every programme Laureus supports addresses at least one of the following six social issues, which align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals: Health, Education, Women and Girls, Employability, Inclusive Society and Peaceful Society.

Franziska Gsell and Lu Yan represent two leading lightsfrom two different industries: Swiss luxury watchmaking and fashion. With a shared passion for sustainability, the wide-ranging conversation between the two covered a great deal, including insights into each companies’ programmes for sustainability, an exploration of what lies ahead and the importance of innovation and communityaction in creating change.

After starting modelling in France in 1999, Yan enjoyed incredible global success, gracing runways and magazine covers worldwide. In 2013 she decided to retire from modelling to launch her own womenswear label, COMME MOI. Founder of the now internationally acclaimed brand, Lu has a hands-on role in the company, known for its designs’ luxurious wearability. She also has a long-standing association with Teach China which promotes progress by harnessing education’s power.

“I was delighted to join the summit and to be asked to talk about issues which are truly important to me personally and professionally,” explained Yan. “At COMME MOI, I have always spearheaded a sustainable approach to fashion, and as well as making beautiful clothes, I dedicate my time to finding workable solutions for real-world needs.”

Franziska Gsell has been the Chief Marketing Officer of IWC Schaffhausen since 2015 and chairs the company’s Sustainability Committee. IWC has long been a proponent of sustainability in Swiss luxury watchmaking. In 2018, the company led the industry by being the first brand to release a Sustainability Report in line with the best-practice standards of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), providing a transparent window into the world of a luxury Swiss watch company never offered before. A second report, also conforming to GRI standards, was released last year. In March 2021, IWC was the first luxury watch brand to attain Chain-of-Custody (CoC) certification from the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), confirming the gold and platinum used in its supply chain are responsibly sourced. Recently, IWC also launched TimberTex watch straps, a new range of vegan straps made from a low-impact, FSC-certified paper-based material.

Host Neubacher started his career at the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation and was responsible for designing and implementing various sustainability programmes throughout China. He became China’s first foreign editor-in-chief, launching various lifestyle titles during his 15-year career in Chinese media. He co-founded WWD China in 2019.

“Sustainability is one of the key content focuses for WWD China,” he added. “Our role is to share the latest insights and intelligence, as well as support the industry, especially the supply chain in China, to reach their sustainability goals. Through events like this one, we aim to bring together the global community to prompt important conversations and brainstorm for a brighter future.”

A recording of the WWD X IWC Schaffhausen Sustainability Summit can be watched via the following link: https://www.iwc.com/ch/en/company/sustainability-at-iwc.html

“It’s an honour to partner with such an iconic brand. I am a champion for creativity and always push my label to innovate, especially when it comes to sustainability. IWC mirrors me in this respect, blending technical ingenuity, timeless luxury and a commitment to adding value to society. Whilst I make pure and uncomplicated clothes for modern women, empowering them to dress authentically for their multi-faceted lives, IWC delivers the same elegant aesthetic, creating watches women like me want to wear. We are a natural fit,” explained Yan.

She is widely regarded as one of China’s first supermodels. After starting her modelling career in France in 1999, she enjoyed incredible global success, gracing runways and magazine covers worldwide. In 2013 Yan decided to retire from modelling to launch her own womenswear label.

Still at the helm of COMME MOI, eight years later, her hands-on role encompasses everything from design to production, supply chain to marketing. Her versatility of purpose and sustainable outlook inspires the signature style of her designs, known for their luxurious minimalism and practical wearability. With fifteen stores in Mainland China, the label is a firm fashion favourite, so much so that Yan was awarded a position on The Business of Fashion 500, the definitive professional index of industry leaders.

As well as being incredibly influential in the Chinese fashion industry, Yan has long been a devoted charity campaigner. She participated in Teach China’s volunteering program, ‘Hands up and change the future in two years’ and is also a dedicated advocate for education. As part of its wideranging commitment to sustainability, IWC works hard to promote education and young people’s wellbeing and has done so for many years through its various charitable projects, including Laureus Sport for Good and the Fondation Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

COMME MOI

Founded by Lu Yan in 2013, COMME MOI is French for ‘like me’, reflecting the brand ideology to enable modern women to approach life with a dynamic attitude and to swiftly transition from one role to another, professionally and personally. Every design aims to empower the woman wearing it to express her authentic self. By offering effortlessly chic pieces made from high-quality fabric tailored to perfection, COMME MOI collections are distinguished by their expert craftsmanship and perfect attention to detail.

Demonstrating his passion and dedication which has always characterized his career, Brady made his record-breaking 10th appearance in the championship, becoming the first player in history to win seven rings.

Brady joined IWC as global brand ambassador in 2019. Last year, he starred in the Swiss brand’s ‘Born of a Dream’ film project, which portrayed his inspirational journey to champion quarterback. Depicting his humble beginnings as a young boy with a big dream in his hometown of San Mateo, California, the film follows Brady as he plays college football at the University of Michigan before going pro.

No player in history has even come close to achieving more success than Tom Brady. His inspiring victory in his first year in a new city is yet another demonstration of his unprecedented accomplishments in an unrelenting sport.

At Sunday’s FORMULA 1 DHL TURKISH GRAND PRIX 2020, Hamilton secured his seventh FIA Formula One™ Drivers’ World Championship* to become only the second driver in the history of the sport to claim seven driver titles.

Just two weeks earlier, at the FORMULA 1 EMIRATES GRAN PREMIO DELL’EMILIA ROMAGNA 2020, the Mercedes team clinched their seventh FIA Formula One™ Constructors’ World Championship*. By doing so, they became the first team in the history of Formula One^TM racing to score seven straight title doubles: an extraordinary achievement for a team which was only re-established a decade ago as the first Mercedes works squad since 1955.

Wrapping up both the constructors’ and drivers’ titles with three races still to run, the promptness of the team’s shared triumph is appropriately punctual for their watchmaking partner. In every way, 2020 has been a commanding season for the Brackley-based team. Together, Hamilton and Bottas have already claimed 13 pole positions, eight fastest laps, 12 wins and five onetwos from the opening 14 races. As well as a seventh title, Hamilton has set a new record for career wins (94) during the season to date, took a 73^rd victory for Mercedes to set a new record for the most wins for a single constructor, and led his 5,000th career lap. The Briton also now holds the all-time records for most podiums, points, races led and pole positions.

Bottas has been pushing too, delivering yet another impressive season. So far in 2020, he has graced the podium a total of 10 times – twice as a winner, five times in second place, and three times in third place. On top of their historic title, Mercedes has taken pole position in all but one of 2020’s races and celebrated their 501^st podium finish as an F1 engine supplier.

IWC has been the ‘Official Engineering Partner’ of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport team since 2013. As “Official Engineering Partner”, IWC has a prominent presence on the gloves, uniforms and car. The focus of the partnership is on technical aspects and the common attributes shared by mechanics, engineering and watchmaking. In 2019, IWC presented the “Lewis Hamilton” Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition (ref. IW503002). The special design, limited to 100 watches, combines a black ceramic case and a Bordeaux-red dial with a crown and a case-back ring made of 18-carat 5N gold. The British racing driver created the distinctive timepiece together with IWC’s designers.

Also in 2019, IWC launched the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport” (ref. IW389005). Limited to 50 watches, this “Team watch” features a black ceramic case and a black carbon fibre dial.

*Subject to the FIA’s official confirmation of the 2020 FIA Formula One World Championship™ results.

Schaffhausen, 12th October 2020 – Following the release of IWC Schaffhausen’s second sustainability report, actor and producer Cate Blanchett connected virtually with IWC CMO Franziska Gsell to discuss sustainability. Sharing a mutual interest in the topic, they talked about IWC’s approach to actively managing its environmental and social impact, which has earned the brand a leadership role in sustainable luxury watchmaking.

Cate Blanchett, renowned actor and producer has been an IWC brand ambassador since 2006. The two-time Academy Award® winner joined IWC CMO Franziska Gsell, who is also the chair of the brand’s sustainability committee, for a discussion via video conference.

Cate Blanchett said: “When Franziska and I first met in 2015, we quickly discovered our mutual interest in sustainability topics. It is more important than ever for brands to review their environmental footprint and take concrete steps towards sustainability. The notion of transparency is key because clients want to know how a luxury product is manufactured.”

During their conversation, Blanchett and Gsell discussed the longevity of IWC’s mechanical timepieces, which are engineered to last for generations. They also spoke about the importance of protecting the environment through purchasing renewable energy and reducing waste. For example, IWC’s new packaging is also a travel pouch which can be used for years rather than thrown away. Another focal point was the responsible sourcing of raw materials and IWC’s certification to the 2019 Code of Practices of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC).

IWC RECENTLY RELEASED ITS SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2020

In July, IWC released the second edition of its sustainability report by Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards, underscoring its leadership in sustainable luxury watchmaking. In 2018, IWC was the first Swiss luxury watch company to publish a report using these global best practice standards. In the new report, the company describes how it performed against the targets that were defined in 2018 and publishes new goals to reach by 2022. The publication of the biennial report illustrates IWC’s progress in integrating sustainability into everyday decision-making and managing its social and environmental impact responsibly. The video of the conversation between Cate Blanchett and Franziska Gsell is now live on IWC’s social media channels and iwc.com.

In “Born of a Dream: A boy from San Mateo,” Danish director Rune Milton takes the audience on a visually stunning and captivating ride to some of the most significant milestones in Brady’s life and early career. Depicting his humble beginnings as a young boy with a big dream in his hometown of San Mateo, California, the film follows Brady as he plays college football at the University of Michigan, and rises to the top of the National Football League.

Brady’s path to the NFL reflects his hard work and commitment to pursuing his childhood dream. After being drafted by the New England Patriots as the 199th pick of the 2000 NFL draft, he led the team to six Super Bowl championships and 17 Division titles, more than any other quarterback in NFL history. After 20 years with the New England Patriots, this season he will embark on his next chapter with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Brady is not only a world-class athlete and modern-day icon, but also a connoisseur of Haute Horlogerie, with a collection that comprises several IWC watches, including the iconic Portugieser Perpetual Calendar. He has been a global IWC brand ambassador since 2019.

Brady’s passion and dedication in pursuing his dream also resonate with the core values of the IWC brand. The story of IWC Schaffhausen began in 1868 with Florentine Ariosto Jones, a 27-year-old watchmaker from Boston who dreamed of combining modern manufacturing methods from his homeland with the craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers. Just like Brady on his path to the NFL, Jones never gave up despite the many obstacles he faced while working to accomplish his dream. His bold vision and unique engineering approach to watchmaking live on in IWC’s manufacturing centre and in every single timepiece from the Schaffhausen factory.

A MOVIE FORMAT PRODUCTION

With “Born of a Dream: A Boy from San Mateo”, IWC has broken new ground in marketing, taking the traditional corporate film to an entirely new level. The project’s complex production spared no effort and took several shooting days on locations in Boston and Salt Lake City in the USA*. “Born of a Dream: A Boy from San Mateo” can be seen on IWC.com

* Please note that all filming on location was completed prior to the introduction of current travel restrictions.

No other novel has been translated into as many languages and read by as many people from different countries and cultural backgrounds as “The Little Prince”. Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s most famous literary work follows a young prince on his journey to different planets, addressing themes such as loneliness, isolation, friendship, and love. During these challenging times, the story is a powerful reminder that the best things in life are the simplest ones and that real wealth is caring for and giving to others. Channelling this spirit, IWC brand ambassadors are coming together to read from the book. The original illustrations from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, including some never-before-shown works, will accompany the  readings.

IWC enjoys a long-running relationship with the heirs of Antoine de Saint Exupéry. In 2009, the company also became a partner of the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation, which works to preserve the humanist values of the famous French aviator and author.

Olivier d’Agay, the great-nephew of Antoine de Saint Exupéry and Director of the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation, says: “I am honoured that IWC chose “The Little Prince” for this reading initiative. This moving story about friendship, love and the essence of humanity has always bridged cultures and united people across borders and generations.”

THE NOVEL WILL BE READ IN DIFFERENT LANGUAGES

Indian actress Sonam Kapoor will open the series of readings. Lebanese-British TV presenter Raya Abirached, Tunisian actress Hend Sabri and Italian actor Pierfrancesco Favino, among others, will then read subsequent chapters of the book. Selected IWC brand ambassadors, such as Chinese actor Zhang Ruo Yun, will also join the project and read from “The Little Prince” in their native language.

The “TIME WELL SHARED” initiative, which IWC announced recently, encompasses online lectures, speeches and webinars that will feature on digital channels during the following weeks. The aim is to entertain and support people in these challenging times. The initiative includes contributions from IWC brand ambassadors and partners such as Tom Brady, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport, Mercedes-AMG, Tottenham Hotspur, Laureus Sport for Good, Solaris Yachts and Orlebar Brown. 

All contributions to the initiative will include a link to allow viewers and listeners to make voluntary donations, with IWC making the first donation. With the funds raised, IWC will support Save the Children, which aims to strengthen its programmes that protect children and families in countries that are hit by the virus, increase support for national health systems, and raise awareness among parents and caregivers on how to provide psychosocial support to children.

Another crucial pillar of “TIME WELL SHARED” is a personal volunteering programme via the website Good Tutors Finder, to support schoolchildren and their parents. In their own free time, and on an individual voluntary basis, IWC employees are encouraged to offer online tutoring support for schoolchildren in basic subjects.

For the latest information on “TIME WELL SHARED”, and to access exclusive content, please visit www.iwc.com/en/articles/journal/iwc-news-events.html and www.savethechildren.ch/timewellshared

For more information on the personal volunteering programme of IWC employees involving online tutoring support for schoolchildren, please visit www.goodtutorsfinder.ch/iwc-time-well-shared

ABOUT THE ANTOINE DE SAINT EXUPÉRY YOUTH FOUNDATION

The Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation (www.fasej.org), operating under the aegis of the Fondation de France, was created by the family of the famed French writer and pilot and his admirers from across the literary, scientific and aerospace spheres.The Foundation honours Saint-Exupéry’s memory and continues his work, by passing on his universal humanist values and broadcasting his messages of peace and solidarity, the challenge to better oneself and his pioneering approach to the environment, to the youngest members of the community, both in France and internationally. The Foundation is faithful to the spirit of the author and aviator when he encouraged us to build a society based on respect for our fellow human beings, cultural diversity, solidarity, fraternity, commitment and personal responsibility. Its philanthropic actions in the fields of education and culture, and its aim to combat illiteracy are undertaken to improve the daily lives of young people, helping them gain skills for a more successful future.

SAVE THE CHILDREN

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. Around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.

Shot mostly on location at Haydenshapes’ ‘Remote’ floating pop up studio on Sydney’s Pittwater, which was set up in partnership with IWC Schaffhausen, the film demonstrates how the company is trying to reduce its impact on the environment. Cox is shown repurposing manufacturing waste, which is typically thrown away, into performance surfboard components and an innovative new cloth.

“We wanted to take the offcuts and waste we are normally left with and create something new,” explained Cox. “Traditionally, we discard about 30-40 percent of our raw materials in the production process, which then ends up in landfill. Therefore, our wish was to come up with an entirely new idea to regenerate that waste into surfboard components we can actually use.”

Taking leftover carbon fibre and glass fibre from surfboard lamination, Cox has developed an idea to upcycle them. After being cut up and aerated, the waste fibre material is then mixed together and reintroduced into weaving machines to create a brandnew fabric. Foam dust and bio-epoxy resin waste are also transformed into lightweight accessories like tail pads and fins.

“There are businesses that make incredible sustainable surfboards, but I like to think differently and do things in my own way,” added the Australian. “I wanted to create a board that doesn’t create waste - or if it does have some waste, then it is used elsewhere.”

It was a trip Cox took to the IWC Schaffhausen factory that prompted his ground-breaking upcycling idea. While there, he saw the watchmakers using scrap materials, and he wondered if he could apply the same methodology to his business.

“As I was going around, I saw how all the metals and raw materials, which are offcuts from the production process, aren’t wasted,” he explained. “Instead, they are carefully gathered up, then melted back down and used for new watches. From that tour of the factory, the idea for our pioneering upcycling process in surfboard manufacture was born.”

IWC Schaffhausen has long been a leading proponent of greater sustainability within the industry. As well as recently signing up to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment to avoid plastic waste, renewable electricity powers the brand’s new Manufacturing Centre as well as the Headquarters.

At the end of the film, Cox takes the prototype surfboard out on the water to test it in action. To find out how he gets on, watch the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dlhK6vcTH2A

As a six-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton sets the ultimate standard – and not just as part of motorsport’s elite. He also doesn’t miss a beat when it comes to fashion and lifestyle either. Luxurious streetwear, trendy suits and unusual accessories – with his daring and expressive sense of style, Hamilton uses fashion as a way to communicate his distinct point of view on global culture. Now, he and IWC have designed a spectacular watch together.

“This partnership with IWC was incredibly exciting for me, and it’s been an honour to collaborate so closely with the watchmakers in Schaffhausen,” said Hamilton. “Together, we’ve designed a beautiful timepiece which combines two things I am really passionate about – craftsmanship and design – and I am so pleased with the result.”

The “Lewis Hamilton” Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition (ref. IW503002) is limited to 100 watches and features a case made of black zirconium oxide ceramic and a Bordeaux-red dial. The gold-plated hands and the case back, rotor and characteristic “cone crown” made of 18-carat 5N gold provide luxury accents. The watch, with a generous diameter of 46.5 millimetres, has a Bordeaux-red textile strap to be worn around the wrist.

The IWC 52615 manufacture calibre ensures that the watch rate is accurate. Its Pellaton winding system, fitted with components made from zirconium oxide ceramic, builds up a power reserve of seven days in two barrels. The perpetual calendar, made of only about 80 components, displays the date, day, month and year to four figures, as well as showing the lunar phase. The mechanical programme autonomously recognises that different months are different lengths, and adds a leap day every four years at the end of February. The double moon phase display simultaneously shows the lunar phase in the northern and southern hemispheres and will only deviate from the moon’s actual orbit by a single day after 577.5 years. All displays are perfectly synchronised and can be easily adjusted via the crown if the watch is not worn for a prolonged period.

Few individuals in the film industry possess the appeal of Cate Blanchett: Since the 1990s, the Australian actor, who is also an IWC brand ambassador has appeared in dozens of feature films and TV series. In 2014, she won Best Actress at the Academy Awards for her leading role in “Blue Jasmine”, having already won Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Katharine Hepburn in “The Aviator” in 2004. Blanchett is not only omnipresent on the silver screen; she also regularly appears on stage and is involved in various projects as a producer or artistic director. She also works tirelessly with charitable organisations and other partners to improve society or the environment. As a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNHCR, she is focused on the issue of forced displacement and statelessness, meeting with refugee families overseas and addressing states and corporate leaders at the UN Security Council. Blanchett’s many successes also inspire countless women who want to gain a foothold in the film industry. She presented the 5th Filmmaker Award at an exclusive IWC Schaffhausen private dinner at the restaurant Haute, which was held as part of the 15th Zurich Film Festival (ZFF). She was spotted wearing the new Portofino Automatic 34, the latest women’s watches added to IWC’s iconic Portofino line and currently the smallest in the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer’s portfolio.

“WANDA, MY MIRACLE” WINS THE 5TH FILMMAKER AWARD

A total of thirty-eight projects had applied for the 5th Filmmaker Award. The jury finally selected “Wanda, My Miracle” as the winner. The film tells the story of a Polish woman named Wanda. While looking after an older Swiss couple in their villa, she embarks on an affair with their youngest son Gregor and unexpectedly becomes pregnant. The film will be released in 2020. Directed by Bettina Oberli from Bern, it is produced by Lukas Hobi and Reto Schaerli, who, in addition to the Filmmaker Award, were also presented with a Portugieser Automatic (IW500703) from IWC Schaffhausen. The premiere of “Die Stimme des Regenwaldes” (“Paradise War”) by Niklaus Hilber likewise underscored the importance of the Filmmaker Award. This highly anticipated film had officially opened the ZFF on 26 September. Telling the gripping story of Swiss environmental activist Bruno Manser, who fought alongside the Penan people to save the rainforest in Malaysia, this project won the Filmmaker Award in 2017. 

FILMMAKER AWARD HELPS TO BRING PROJECTS TO THE BIG SCREEN

The Filmmaker Award, which comes with CHF 100,000, was established by the Verein zur Filmförderung in der Schweiz (Association for Film Funding in Switzerland). As well as the co-founders of the ZFF, Nadja Schildknecht and Karl Spoerri, this association also includes Ringier CEO Marc Walder and IWC CEO Christoph Grainger- Herr. The prize closes a gap in Swiss film funding by targeting projects that are in the crucial production or post-production phase.