IWC continues to push the boundaries of watchmaking with its latest innovation, Ceralume® luminous ceramic technology. Recently announced by IWC’s engineering division XPL, this groundbreaking technology enables the production of fully luminous ceramic watch cases for the first time. By combining ceramic’s high scratch resistance with a vibrant glow-in-the-dark effect, IWC introduces a new level of functionality and aesthetics to its timepieces.
The IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Ceralume® is the first watch to feature this technology. With its fully luminous white ceramic case, dial, and strap, this watch promises to be a showstopper, especially in low-light conditions. The glow-in-the-dark effect is achieved by homogeneously mixing ceramic powders with high-grade Super-LumiNova pigments, resulting in a bright blueish light lasting for over 24 hours in dark chamber tests.
IWC collaborated with Swiss technology company RC Tritec to develop a ceramic compound that effectively integrates these pigments. The process involved customizing a dedicated ball milling technique to ensure a perfectly homogenous mix of raw materials, followed by adapting the sintering and grinding parameters for the luminous ceramic.
The Ceralume® technology builds on IWC’s legacy of innovation, dating back to the debut of the first ceramic-cased watch in 1986. While the IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 Ceralume® is currently a prototype and unavailable for purchase, the patent-pending Ceralume technology will undoubtedly pave the way for future developments and releases. Enthusiasts can look forward to the Ceralume® technology being the foundation of future developments and releases.
In other recent horology news, see the Tag Heuer Monaco Chrono.