In part 2 of our IWC & Formula 1 mini series, Andrew & Chris talk F1 team watches

Time+Tide

Last week, we kicked off something a bit special: a four-part mini series hosted by our founder Andrew McUtchen and the CEO of IWC, Chris Grainger-Herr, that’s all about the high-octane world of Formula 1 and its intersection with watchmaking, especially with watches from this innovative Schaffhausen brand. We know it’s an F1 race weekend this coming weekend, with the travelling circus that is the world’s #1 motorsport heading to the Austrian Grand Prix (the hills are alive, with the sound of engines), but to tide you over before then, here’s episode 2. You’re welcome.

This episode offers a deep dive into the relationship between IWC and Formula 1, highlighting how the luxury Swiss watchmaker has embedded itself into the sport through partnerships, specially designed watches, and unique collaborations with drivers. Chris shares insider stories about the brand’s history in F1, their pioneering team watches and driver-specific timepieces, and the cultural shifts in the sport that have influenced watch design. Andrew and Chris explore the transformation of F1 into a lifestyle and entertainment phenomenon, boosting IWC’s active role and visibility.

It also details technical innovations, such as the as-of-yet unreleased fully luminescent Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 in Ceralume and the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber line (aka the Toto Wolff watch), designed to withstand extreme forces, reflecting the brand’s commitment to marrying functionality with heritage and style.

Chris and Andrew discuss the different categories of F1 fans’ access to timepieces, describing how IWC’s F1 partnership has evolved. They reveal the influence of drivers like Sir Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, including the latter’s recent bespoke collaboration with custom dial maker George Bamford, emphasising how driver personalities shape watch aesthetics. The episode also highlights the unique pressures on F1 drivers – balancing intense physical and mental demands with public relations duties – and how IWC watches symbolise performance, precision, and emotional significance for these athletes.

 

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Lastly, Chris shares some insights into IWC’s involvement in branding innovation, such as putting Big Pilot graphics on race gloves (a masterstroke), and shares personal favourites among the F1-related watches. The conversation closes with anticipation of future content centred around IWC’s Hollywood projects, especially the upcoming Formula 1 movie tie-in, which releases later this week…