Watch Paparazzi

Pilot Vice Admiral Douglas C. Verissimo spotted wearing IWC

Vice Admiral Douglas C. Verissimo, Commander of U.S. Naval Air Forces and Naval Air Force Pacific and the unofficial 'Air Boss' of the Navy, was recently photographed wearing an IWC Pilots Chronograph 'Blue Angels' special edition. The sighting captures one of the service's most senior aviators in official dress uniform, his wrist adorned with the iconic blue-dialed chronograph that honors the U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron.

The IWC Pilots Chronograph ref. IW389101 is built on a robust 43mm stainless steel case paired with the brand's in-house calibre 79230 automatic chronograph movement. The dial presents a striking deep navy blue lacquer finish with applied Arabic numerals and baton indices in contrasting yellow—colors directly referencing the Blue Angels' flight suit scheme. The chronograph subdials are positioned at 6, 9, and 12 o'clock, with yellow chronograph hands and a tachymeter bezel for timing. The watch carries a 60-hour power reserve and 100 meters of water resistance, housed behind a domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. The 'Blue Angels' edition ships on a matching navy leather strap with rubber backing, as visible on Verissimo's wrist.

This reference stands apart from the standard IWC Pilots Chronograph lineup through its exclusive colour coordination and military heritage branding. The 'Blue Angels' edition was produced in limited quantities as a tribute to Naval aviation tradition, making it highly sought among military watch collectors and aviation enthusiasts who prize watches with authentic operational provenance.

Verissimo's choice reflects the deeper connection between military service and tool watches. As the Navy's senior aviator and 'Air Boss'—responsible for the safe and efficient operation of carrier air wings—he commands the same precision and reliability that defines IWC's Pilots collection. The pairing of rank, role, and chronograph carries symbolic weight: the Pilots watch is designed for the men and women who operate at the highest levels of aviation performance.

On the grey market, the IWC Pilots Chronograph 'Blue Angels' ref. IW389101 typically trades between $8,500 and $11,000 USD pre-owned, reflecting its limited production and military collector appeal. Retail pricing held firm around $10,700 at introduction. Waitlists for new production units have extended considerably given the watch's niche appeal and the prestige of the Blue Angels association.