IWC Schaffhausen made a high-profile entrance into Miami’s Grand Prix weekend with a private rooftop gathering that bridged the thrilling world of Formula 1 and Hollywood storytelling. At the chic Fabel restaurant in Wynwood, IWC united stars from both the racetrack and the upcoming Apple Original Films and Warner Bros. Pictures release, F1.
IWC Schaffhausen hosts stars of Formula 1 and Apple’s F1 movie at an exclusive Miami rooftop event ahead of the Grand Prix.
The event brought together Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team Principal Toto Wolff, driver George Russell, actresses Kerry Condon and Simone Ashley, and celebrated producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Moderated by Formula 1 commentator Immy Barclay, the conversation offered a rare fusion of real-life racing and cinematic insight.
Joining them on stage for an unannounced appearance was Formula 1 figure Günther Steiner. The group offered behind-the-scenes commentary on the upcoming F1 movie and its unique production approach, which unfolded alongside the real-world Formula 1 circuit over two years.
The film stars Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a fictional former phenom making an unlikely return to Formula 1 after decades away. As the character seeks redemption, he partners with Javier Bardem’s character, a team owner desperate to revive his franchise.
Alongside rising rookie Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris, Sonny returns to the racing spotlight. What unfolds is a gripping story of personal rivalry, mentorship, and one final chance at greatness.
What makes this film unique is its embedded production. Cameras followed real F1 races, with the cast and crew immersed in the sport’s fast-paced world. Toto Wolff suggested adapting F2 vehicles for use in filming to retain authenticity, a detail that underscores the movie’s deep commitment to realism.
Jerry Bruckheimer revealed the lengths the team went to, including developing entirely new camera systems to meet the demands of high-speed filming. The technical ambition reflects the ethos of IWC itself—a brand rooted in mechanical precision and bold design.
Kerry Condon and George Russell shared how surreal it was to work alongside each other at real race venues while staying in character and navigating the chaos of active race weekends.
The evening also served as a platform to showcase the APXGP watch collection, designed in collaboration with the film. Centerpieces included the limited-edition Ingenieur Automatic 40 in green, a design inspired by the watch worn by Brad Pitt’s character.
IWC’s sponsorship of the fictional APXGP team in the movie allowed them to push creative limits. Also featured were two Pilot’s Watch Chronograph APXGP models, as well as the Pilot’s Watch Performance Chronograph 41 in 18-carat gold, worn by Jerry Bruckheimer at the event.
Each guest wore a different IWC masterpiece. George Russell wore a custom black ceramic Ingenieur Automatic 42 with a blue dial. Toto Wolff sported the Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL, a piece designed with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team in mind.
Actresses Kerry Condon and Simone Ashley wore Ingenieur Automatic 35 models, while Immy Barclay opted for the Pilot’s Watch Mark XX. Günther Steiner wore the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph APXGP, showcasing the collection’s wide appeal.
Set for release this summer, F1 is directed by Joseph Kosinski and co-produced by Lewis Hamilton, Jerry Bruckheimer, Brad Pitt, and others. The cast includes Brad Pitt, Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, Damson Idris, and Tobias Menzies. The film debuts in U.S. theaters and IMAX on June 27, 2025, with global releases beginning June 25. Blending cinematic vision with real motorsport intensity, it promises to deliver an unforgettable racing film experience.
IWC’s event in Miami was more than a party. It was a celebration of performance, partnership, and storytelling. By connecting their legacy in precision timepieces with the energy of racing and film, the brand reasserted itself as a leader in luxury culture.
