As the curtain falls on a decade-defining collaboration, Lewis Hamilton and IWC Schaffhausen are getting ready to turn the page. The Swiss watchmaker and the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, emblematic ambassador of the brand, shared a unique adventure that goes far beyond the circuits.
This story, punctuated by triumphs and innovations, illustrates a successful marriage between sporting performance and the art of watchmaking. Now, the time has come for everyone to continue their journey, with horizons as vast as they are ambitious.
IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-AMG Petronas: a memorable decade
Since 2013, IWC Schaffhausen has been the proud partner of the team Mercedes-AMG Petronasbringing its watchmaking know-how to the heart of the ultra-competitive world of Formula 1. With Lewis Hamilton as ambassador, this partnership quickly became a benchmark, combining sporting performance and timeless elegance.
On every podium or during post-race interviews, the Big Pilot watch on Hamilton's wrist symbolized this perfect union between style and excellence. However, beyond simple visibility, this link was imbued with meaning. By equipping the British driver, IWC not only supported a champion, but also shared a common vision: that of always pushing the limits, whether on the track or in the watchmaking workshop.
the synergy between sport and craftsmanship: when precision rhymes with passion
Driving a Formula 1 car at full speed isn't just about power, it's a true art. From surgical precision to intuition of the perfect moment to attack a corner, Lewis Hamilton has demonstrated his genius in this area time and again. Who could forget his legendary qualifying lap at the 2018 Singapore Grand Prix? This moment of alchemy between man and machine has been hailed as one of the most exceptional performances in history.
This quest for perfection admirably reflects the work of the Schaffhausen watchmakers, where each component is designed with meticulous care. Beneath the surface of an IWC watch, a miniature universe of precision and passion comes to life, reflecting a philosophy shared with high-level piloting: excelling in the smallest details.
IWC and Hamilton, the alliance that transforms much more than sport
What distinguishes Lewis Hamilton is his role as a committed figure, going beyond the simple sporting framework. In 2020, when the world was facing major social crises, he was able to take a courageous stand. Whether on or off the track, he never hesitated to lend his voice to important causes, and his partnership with IWC reflected that.
As a testament to their mutual support, IWC designed a watch in Ceratanium noirproduced in record time, to support the pilot's strong messages. This unique timepiece, the result of a challenge overcome in one week, shows that the watchmaker is not content to follow the movement but is actively engaged alongside its ambassadors. Together, they proved that luxury and responsibility can go hand in hand.
A final tribute before a new departure
To celebrate this adventure, IWC gave Lewis Hamilton a watch Top Gun Perpetual Calendardecorated with discreet but significant red touches. This design choice does not fail to evoke his future stint at Ferrari, an elegant nod which suggests the continuity of his quest for greatness in other colors.
This watch, symbol of their collaboration, does not represent an end, but a new chapter. As Hamilton prepares to take on new challenges, this unique timepiece remains a tangible memento of their shared exploits.
