Fine watchmaking has long been intricately tied up with luxury cars, with a storied history of partnerships between the two industry’s leading brands. However, one name you may not expect to see on that list is Hot Wheels, which despite the small stature of its toy vehicles has made a huge impact on the motoring industry and inspired future generations of designers.

It is the collaborator of choice for IWC, and when you delve into the two companies’ histories the synergy between them becomes clear. Hot Wheels was the brainchild of the entrepreneurial Elliot Handler, who in the 1960s had a vision for creating a toy car that looked cooler and performed better than those on the market at the time. From Southern California he brought to life his dream with the help of a team that ranged from car designers to rocket scientists. From its first model, a space-age design combining Detroit auto styling with striking modern touches, it has since grown into a global powerhouse.

This pioneering American spirit, engineering expertise and unique aesthetic flair has also been key to IWC’s success throughout its history. It was in 1868 that watchmaker and engineer Florentine Ariosto Jones revolutionised the watch market by combining traditional Swiss expertise with the latest American manufacturing technology. Its precision timekeeping has since made it a favourite of aviation, motor racing and beyond.

To mark the 78th Goodwood Members’ Meeting, the duo has created a special collector’s set. On the horological side is the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “IWC x Hot Wheels Racing Works”, a contemporary new take on this popular model. The case is made from high-tech and hard-wearing grade 5 titanium, often used in automotive engineering, which has been given a special surface treatment to achieve a matte dark grey colour. This modern feel is enhanced by the black dial, subtly decorated with a chequered racing flag motif, while the silver-and-black strap echoes the colour scheme of the IWC Racing Mercedes-Benz 300 SL that was part of the line-up at the racing event. Powering the watch is the reliable in-house 69385 calibre movement, visible through the smoked-glass case back.

The set also includes the miniature Hot Wheels Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Racing Works Edition”, one of the most detailed 1:64th Hot Wheels models ever created. As well as faithfully reproducing the interior of the car, it features a number of pleasing details including opening gullwing doors, roll cage and full external detailing such as clear headlights with the MB Star braces and racing graphics.

With only 50 sets available, it will be one of the rarest Hot Wheels editions created. To make this release even more special, the number one is being auctioned by Bonhams to raise funds for the Two Bit Circus Foundation, which gives children from all backgrounds learning opportunities to inspire entrepreneurship and creativity.

iwc.com