The Best Flieger Pilot Watches Of All Time? - IWC Mark XVIII Heritage & Miramar Top Gun Review
Тәжірибелік нұсқаулар және стиль
Today I review not one but two of the most iconic luxury pilot watches of all time!
In this video I look at the IWC Mark XVIII Heritage as well as a version made in honour of the Miramar United States Marine and Navy Airbase.
After extensive experience with and reviews of Laco and Stowa (brands that have a similar history behind them) the question remains: who makes the best World War 2 inspired Flieger watches today? Join me as I look at the Mark XVIII heritage and Top Gun Miramar to find out!
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Пікірлер: 388
I have Mark XVIII Heritage and it is very accurate. In first two years it was 0 seconds drift per day. Now it is about 2 seconds, after 4 years. I love it.
Just wanted to say I appreciate so much your content and videos. There are so many sub-par watch reviews and videos out there, and all your content is very polished and informative, with a splash of entertainment value. Eg. intros, live chats, watch related travel. Your channel really is an asset to the watch enthusiast community.
Great vid - the “heritage” is an absolute stunner with those blued hands - I love the background and history you apply to your reviews. Keep’em coming🍻
I agree! For a fraction of the cost Laco would look the same and performs admirably with its Miyota movement. I purchased an A type and wore it for two weeks straight. not even a Seiko on Saturday! Great everyday watch and unique look.
Great Video!!!! Finally a IWC pilots watch review. Would love to see more IWC
Comparing these two, I went for the Heritage from the first second I saw it :)
Thanks a lot for this new video. All of your remarks are spot-on. Good job!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend :D Best regards, TGV
I think you nailed this review. Spot on!
That was one sick intro....you the man..
I have the Mark 16 as my first mechanical watch. It started my love and collection of mechanical watches.
As always great review TGV. I'm not the biggest flieger watch fan but that Heritage could make me change my mind. But that price. Insane. But as always there is a price and watch for everyone! Everyone enjoy their weekend 👍
Another great review Gov.
Stellar intro, stellar watches! I need to add a pilot watch to my collection!
Loving the Topgun intro.. great vlog TGV.. bravo 👏👏
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you Stephen :D Best regards, TGV
I rewatched Top gun yesterday with my little brother what a coincidence. Great video as always TGV!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Haha fantastic, such a fun movie, I hope you enjoyed it. Thank you Kenneth, Best regards, TGV
Hi TGV - Thanks for the IWC video. Haven't seen much on IWC lately and this is a refreshing review. I tend to favor the Heritage with its dims and styling. Good video! Best Regards, John
That intro!!! I think the watch looks perfect on your wrist, especially in that shot with the notepad. Cheers my friend!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you JC :D Best regards, TGV
Spot on throughout. Nice one.
Great video, I’m a total flieger fanboy, they make up the bulk of my 12 watch collection, I’ve been tossing up between Sinn and IWC for my next acquisition, although at this moment IWC is a little more than I’m willing to pay so a nice Sinn will most likely win unless I find a used IWC at a decent price. On another note, I recently purchased a couple of suede straps in different colours by Fluco, you directly inspired my interest in Fluco, excellent value for money, thank you sir
This is a great video and helpful. I have been trying to justify an IWC mark xx for a while because I can’t bring myself to do a Big Pilot. I think this video pushed me over the edge
Nice video as always, Have you heard of oris cal 7317 watch, and would u recommend it?
Greetings from the Netherlands. I agree with some of the comments made earlier, there are better choices when it comes to pilot watches, in regards to bang for buck off course. I just want to say that I really (!) liked the footage of you wearing the watch from a little further away! That shows so much better how the watch looks on the wrist. Please keep doing that. And please keep making these great videos, I already got a smile on my face this Saturday morning when I saw and heard(!) your intro.
I completely agree with your comments, and your opinion on each watch. That heritage is a looker. I really like the Mark line, and I've been in the market for a pilot watch for a while. These were on my short list but ended up picking up an Explorer, which I know is a different purpose watch but I didn't feel like I was throwing a bunch of money away.
@WeLoveWatches
5 жыл бұрын
Matthew Burrows bro can you pls check out my watch review and tell me what you think
@jdavis234
5 жыл бұрын
You chose well.
@mikejones-dx8bx
5 жыл бұрын
Imagine that, Rolex. Boring.
It’s 1AM in Belgium right now and you are already making my day!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend, sorry so late :D Enjoy. Best regards, TGV
Great review TGV, IWC has never been on the radar for me but those are two fantastic looking watches.👍🇮🇹☺
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you David, To be honest, neither have they for me, I think we now know! LOL I hope you are well. Best regards, TGV
G'day TGV Epic intro!....I admire & love the content of your videos but your intros are stratospheric, if there was an Academy award for best YT intro, you'd have a shelf full of them, Super stuff mate! ⌚🙂👍✈
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much, very kind of you to say. You are a true gent for saying so. Best regards, TGV
Great video tgv u never cease to amaze me .how are u my friend.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you JT! :D Very kind of you. Best regards, TGV
Interesting how they lumed the Miramar version. You would perhaps think that they would make the lume much better being that it is named for the (arguably) best fighter pilot school. However, you cannot disagree with the quality of IWC. They have been doing it forever and are clearly a "Top Gun" brand. ;) I do, however, think I prefer the Laco (esp. the Munster type A). The historical authenticity of the markings just speaks to me in some way. I also appreciate the in-house movement of it. These are, without doubt, quality watches. Thank you so much for the work you do! Cheers! Justin M.
Glad you did these I just got my mark xviii heritage last month
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Congrats! You must be over the moon, or at least the clouds :D Enjoy it my friend, and wear it with pride, Thank you, Best regards, TGV
@austinzizzi1142
5 жыл бұрын
Trading mine up for a 36mm Explorer 1. I wish I had listened to you from the start would have saved a lot of money and time
Great insight to these two watches, IWC is right up there on the want list for sure, however would definitely be from the Portuguese range. Totally agree with all your of your negative comments of the Miramar. Love your channel, really has embellished my long life love of watches, where once I was incredibly naive of this amazing hobby. Thanks for the education. Jas.
Hey TGV, you brought me into the horology hobby ! I own a Flighty, the victorinox maverick chronograph and soon a tissot and a skx !! Thank you for the quallity content and keep on going ! Ps: I started collecting when I was 15 years old (now 16) when I found your top ten best value for money watches. Best regards Yann And excuse my english I am still learning.
That intro was savage!
Yes!!! I was going to write you and ask that you do a segment on your own enthusiasm for aviation based on your office decor. This was excellent, sir 👌
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you :D do you mean the die cast models or the Trintec clocks? Best regards, TGV
Your intros are so well made!!! What program are you using old chap?
Thank you TGV. What is yout opinion in the Mark XVIII Petit Prince version? I think it’s still the nicest color combination.
I do have a gripe about your channel,I can’t stop buying watch’s now.Great videos !
GREAT video footage and editing on that opening! Love the Flieger episodes and timepieces. One slight correction, MCAS Miramar is a Marine Corps Air Station, not a Marine air force base. When "Top Gun" was filmed, it was a Naval Air Station.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you John, Very much appreciated. Best regards, TGV
Your audio/video background is apparent. Nicely done as always. Good background history. Miramar is a great visit if you love jets. A memorable visit. Amazing pilots and an adrenaline experience for the jet fighter fan. The IWC is minimal IMO and could have more action taking place in the dial. Better aesthetics would push it to another level. Excellent research as well TGV, until next time Sir. Best wishes my friend.
Great review TGV 👍. I absolutely agree about the date window. Such a shame how a simpel date window can throw off an entire design... You can buy a Lacoo and a Sinn and have money left to spend. Great intro by the way. Airplanes and watches are a satisfying combination to look at👍. Best regards, Koen
The Miramar reminds me of my Guinness Seiko 5! I love it. I do agree on the case. I would prefer for the finish of the case to be matte. Great video sir! Have a great day
That intro!!! Just wow.
After watching your review, I'm all the more convinced to buy the Hamilton "Interstellar" - The new Blue Dial version, but on the Strap and It's uber- bright new lume. Checked one out, at Macy's 34th Street store. The Lume was Killer !
i would really like to know where you buy your lacoste polos from and what type it is (pique etc) would be really nice to know ;)
Hi TGV - great review and cool intro! As a pilot I also recommend the Sinn 103 TI TESTAF and Sinn 103 TI IFR which are officially certified aviators watches, even certified to replace the on-board clock on many commercial aircraft in case of failure. Maybe they’ll find your interest for one of your coming reviews... Have a great weekend Thanks Martin
Just bought XVIII le petit prince 3 hours ago
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Congrats! Thank you, Best regards, TGV
Great review. BTW, I am a big ceramic watch fan.
One is $5500 and the other $4000. For ETA and Sallita movements I think its too much especially when one can get a Fortis Flieger at a quarter of that. I really like the IWC big pilots but they are $13000... In any case, this was a great in depth review. This young chap makes the best watche reviews on youtube no question. If only he could make more reviews of high end watches that would be great.
@mikejones-dx8bx
5 жыл бұрын
buy on the grey market for 40% discount.
I started off on my horological journey in 2009 buying an IWC as I tried to avoid Rolex brand due to bastardisation of their brand. However I realised that I bought my Mark XVI as an expensive ETA, whilst I like it I will not be buying another IWC at such price point. Nice review TGV....hit all the vital points.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
CKR! Lovely to hear from you, cool to hear you are a IWC owner, what a classy place to start the journey! Haha, I was in my Omega, Rolex and Seiko phase back in 2009, oh wait, I still am!!! LOL Thank you my friend, I hope you are well. Best regards, TGV
@michaelbishop9157
4 жыл бұрын
in what way has the brand been bastardized ?
Hi, what do you advise for me? IWC Mark XVIII Heritage or Miramar? and why? Thank you for the answer!! Great video!
I enjoyed that. Thanks. IWC Big Pilot is on my want list, though I'd be looking at the larger 46.2mm ones. But then I have a 7.5in wrist that could accommodate such a size. I'd be looking at the IW5010-02 or IW5010-04 with the 8 day power reserve indicator and with the date at 6. Toss up between the gorgeous blue sunburst of the Le Petite Prince or more true to original Heritage Titanium. But I have plenty of time to mull that over while I wait until my budget is that price range.
I recently purchased an IWC Pilots Chronograph ref. 3777.01 and can not take it off. I've tried in vein to do so. It's the darling of my small collection and fits my 7.9" wrist perfectly. Great job on the video TGV!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you sir, a VERY cool choice indeed, no wonder you can not take it off! Best regards, TGV
@AverageBeausOutdoor
5 жыл бұрын
@@theurbangentry the Squale is still in the rotation though. Lol. If you can please review a pilots chronograph from IWC. I learn soooooo much from your videos. Keep up the great work, TGV.
@AverageBeausOutdoor
5 жыл бұрын
@Todd m Oris would be a great choice as well and I have one on my short list.
Hi TGV! Lol that’s a very industrial music of the intro, yet cool though. :) I tried on an IWC this week. White dial, printed black arabic numbers, very similar to this model or just simply the white version of yours. Anyway, I fall in love with the watch inmediately, actually it’s come most close to my heart, than anything else before. Model number: IW327002. I’m not sure if anyone else knows the feeling when rarely a watch feels like a very part of you, not just something what is exiting or capturing, yet staying like a good, well used, liked good tool. I really felt that the mentioned model has gone to me absolutely well, without any doubt or question. So, after my recent Tudor and Sinn my mentioned IWC is definitely my next grail. Great review! Happy regards: Robert
TGV, what do you think of IWC's Spitfire line? In-house movement, 39mm case, really nice fit.
Most excellent video. Put on your radar your picks for motorcycle riders. Cheers.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you sir, you are a gent for saying so. Watches for motorcycle riders, that is an interesting idea. Do you know the Captain Rambunctious channel? If I recall correctly he has a Seamster, and a Sinn 104.Best regards, TGV
@stefanaichner489
5 жыл бұрын
I use my snk 809 on my motorbike. It is slim and small enough to fit under the leather jacket’s cuff. But I’m looking for something in similar size but a bit more sturdy and waterproof. A Brezel for timing things would also be good. So yes - please consider doing a video on watches for bikers (please not just the Harley brigade). Thanks
Hi TGV. What are your thoughts on the reissue of the Monaco Calibre 11? I’ve never liked Tags but this Heuer has definitely got my attention at many levels. -Diego
I live in Rafz it's about 10 minutes from Schaffhausen. Great place with the gorgeous Rhein fall !
I really like the tool aesthetic of the IWC pilot's watches - they're understated, classy and beautifully made. But, for that price point I expect an in house movement.
You truly are one of the best watch enthusiasts out there. You've re-ignited my passion, and you have taught me a lot about horology. Not only have I taken on some of your recommendations, but I've also invested into some wristcandywatchclub exclusives. Thanks a million!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you Kyle for sharing that, you have no idea how much that inspires me! Enjoy the journey my friend, it is comment like this that make it all worth it. Onwards and upwards. Best regards, TGV
IWC makes beautiful timepieces. Of the two, the Heritage appeals to me the most. The Miramar is a bit disappointing for all of the reasons you mentioned in the vid: polished case cheapens the look, that difficult to read red inner track, and lack of full lume. While not a flieger, I find the Portuguese my favorite IWC to date. Thanks for another great review, Tristano.
I love nostalgic watches! ⌚😁👌
Hi guys I'm new in the watch world, what do you think about the brand Tayroc ?
Great video, now we need a USA version, what did they use that did the same function?
Intro king back in my inbox again I see!
Might have to look at the Heritage. As an A&P I’m around HIRF constantly.
Wrist watch check. After waiting 4 months my Sinn 104 arrived. It is as you know not COSC certified but, this watch runs a a steady +2 seconds a day. This is Rolex territory. To say I am pleased in an understatement. It was seeing it on your channel that sold it to me. Thank you.
Went for the Sinn 104. Question: Is it normal to have a slight downward springy movement in the bezel of the Sinn? PS Looked it up, apparently normal.
Deer tgv thank you so much for helping me get into the extraordinary hobby of watches. I am about to biy my 1st high quality watch a skx 007 or 013. You are most definitely the best U u tuber out thare.
Dope intro 😎
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you Emad :D Best regards, TGV
Excellent review, especially the pros/cons and historical perspective. Given their price, I question the value proposition.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you sir! Best regards, TGV
I was just dreaming of the Mark XVIII! Great and timely video. I'd take the Sellita and shrug off the limited water resist for two and a half thousand. I think they'd make a killing at that price point.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Excellent point, I think that would be a great price. Makes me wonder how much they go for used! Thank you Kevin, excellent point. Best regards, TGV
Excellent review! IWC has a white dial Mark XVIII that you forgot to mention.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you Roger, this was not a review about that particular model or their entire range, not many people want to watch a 3 hour review LOL! Unfortunately ;-) Bes tregards, TGV
Totally agree with you, Laco really nailed it.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you Luca, so glad you agree my friend. I am seriously considering buying a Laco to be honest. A good excuse to review some more ;-) Best regards, TGV
@lshin80
5 жыл бұрын
Archimede is another serious contender. Totally unrelated, but check out this one, seems insanely great for $78: kzread.info/dash/bejne/kZ-HltSfZNaYeqQ.html
As a pilot, I absolutely love the intro!!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you Dustin, so glad to hear. Best regards, TGV
I love this model
I love fleigers, for the legibility and simplicity, though I dont currently own one. Great video TGV, btw I think "profoundly dislike" may actually be stronger than "hate"
As we say in the Service ... "Copy all" and concur with your assessment on both watches. I bought a Stowa Flieger "Klassic" thanks to your videos and insight on German watches and I couldn't be more satisfied. In fact, I bought my wife the 36mm version because she loved the looks of the watch, she wears it everyday. Looking to get the Sinn 104 next. I do love the looks of the Miramar strap however I think it would go better with the Heritage. Honestly I'd like to try it on my Stowa Flieger. Does anyone know where I can get a strap like that?
Excellent review as always, Tristano! I’m a big fan of Fliegers, but I agree that I’ve seen a number of them from other manufacturers that are better, especially considering their prices. Particularly the Top Gun model, the red just doesn’t work. I’ve got an Archimede B. Uhr bronze on my wishlist!
btw - On the use of Red on the Miramar dial; obviously IWC wanted more of a "tie-in" with "Top Gun" 's Red, White and Blue movie logo, as on the poster, and otherwise shown on the screw-down Titanium back (machined ??? ). The two Navy Fighter Weapons School insignia "patches"("badges" in the UK) I'm familiar with; Red is the prominent color. Also, starting with pilots serving with Chennault; both the AVG (an O.S.S. operation). And later his 14th A.F. A Red Silk lining in a leather flight jacket; instead of the original G.I. brown cotton one, indicated the sign of a seasoned pilot ... Most often, an ACE (5 or more aerial victories).
Coolest intros ever
Your intro's are the best Sir! Along with the rest of your channel.
@Fenn3k
5 жыл бұрын
Bryce B I can totally agree!
Could you please review Junghans max bill 34 mm handwind version?
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
I think I already did! :D Thank you Darth, Best regards, TGV
@vladislav2471
5 жыл бұрын
@@theurbangentry it was another model (automatic 38 mm
Hi TGV As always very stylish watches from IWC. And as always quite expensive too... Clearly prefer the “Heritage” model although I would prefer the non-blued hands on that one which would make it look even more as a vintage tool watch. Blued hands is more for a dress watch in my opinion... Speaking of vintage watches...it could be interesting to see a “Luftwaffe 5” IWC compared to a “Dirty Dozen” ditto now that IWC was the only manufacturer delivering to both parties. WW2 in the flesh... Keep up the good work👍
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Haha, thank you Kjeld. I love your Lufty 5 vs Dirty Dozen idea. I might just have to do that one day. Best regards, TGV
Great pieces for those with the money. If I was going for the heritage flieger style I'd surely choose Stowa though. Just my preference.
Can you please cover a certina watch? Perhaps the ds podium or ds caimano powermatic 80? I havn’t hear you ever mention certina in your videos and I think it’s a great low-mid range brand
Great review Tristano! I‘ve always been a big fan of IWC pilot‘s watches and that Heritage MARK XVIII is beautiful indeed - really love the matte grey titanium case. However the pricetag on both this and even more on the Miramar is hefty. In fact I can get a Damasko for around 1300 - 1400 Euros, which offers the same or even superior technical features and will look like new even after several years of daily use. Of course it doesn‘t have the IWC logo and Damasko is a relatively new player on the market, but does brand heritage really justify the pricepoint on these IWC models? And yes, I fully agree with your opinion on the Miramar, it’s mediocre lume and the cheap looking ceramic case. I‘ve never understood why IWC only adds lume to the main markers on several of their models, including some of their classic pilot chronos.
TGV WITH THE HARD BASS!!!
I...believe I rather get a Zenith Pilot with in house Elite movement
Being a Commercial Pilot for Alaskan Airlines myself, I wear a GSHOCK - None of my co pilots or superiors wear any expensive luxury watch, I think those days are far behind us, nonetheless great video love the content!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
How interesting, sorry to hear that. Where are my friends Joseph and Captain Rambunctious to address this!?!! Thank you for watching, Best regards, TGV
Pure class review / comparison as always TGV but you are more than welcome to leave the intro music out of the track listing for any potential Urban Gentry end of year album.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you, Best regards, TGV
The heritage mark XVIII type A is stunning..just remove the date, add a conical crown and it would be perfect 10/10.
Love IWC and love fliegers but I'll never own an IWC flieger until they remove the verbiage from the dial. Authentic fliegers have sterile dials. Great video, as always.
Both watches are very attractive to me. I don't care for ceramic but I do like the look of the Miramar, nevertheless. I choose the Heritage.
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Hello my friend, always lovely to hear from you. I hope you are well, Best regards, TGV
Great intro....prefer the chrono miramar. Love Fliegers.
Dam well nearly had a 90s rave flash back with that intro
22:08 What model Longines
I quite like the Miramar. That grey dial looks good on that case. I would prefer a non-scredown onion crown and no military references in the back, but those are minor. I think these days blued hands are so common, that it is a plus to have something else. The red hour ring is not very legible, but it's also not needed for anything, unless you actually don't know the hour by hand position.
please make a video about watch caring, content can be how to clean, how to maintain, etc
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you, already done! Enjoy. Bes tregards, TGV
Gr8 beaters!
About damn time. Was mißing my little buddy Tristano.😀 ❤⌚
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Thank you CP, sorry it takes so long. Hectic week! :D Best regards, TGV
The Sinn steals the show...great review, many thanks!
@theurbangentry
5 жыл бұрын
Haha, it always does ;-) Thank you, Best regards, TGV