The pilot chrono I'd recommend first
By Rafael Ortiz, Mexico City ยท
Easy one. If someone asks me for a pilot's chronograph under 8,000 dollars that does everything well, this is my answer.
The 41 mm case is 14.5 mm thick, which is a bit thick, but the 20 mm bracelet balances it out and the case is shaped so it sits well on the wrist. The black dial is about as clear as a chronograph gets: big Arabic numerals, a sensible day-date window, and matte surfaces with almost no glare. IWC's anti-reflective coating on the sapphire is very good, and under cockpit lights that matters more than people think.
The 69385 movement gives you 46 hours. That's the weak spot. Over a long weekend off the wrist it'll stop. And the closed caseback means you can't see it, which I don't mind on a tool watch.
At 6,950 to 7,650 dollars, it's priced well against the Breitlings. Fewer gimmicks, better legibility. Go try one on.