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Time Pieces

IWC marks sixth year as timing partner for Dunhill Links Championship

The Swiss watchmaker returns to St Andrews for the 25th edition of the pro-am tournament, with brand ambassador Pablo Larrazábal wearing the new Pilot's Watch Chronograph.

A golfer swings a club on a course in front of IWC Schaffhausen branded boards and a large watch graphic.
Image: IWC Schaffhausen

IWC Schaffhausen has returned as official timing partner for the 2026 Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, continuing a partnership that has now run for six consecutive years. The Swiss luxury watchmaker’s involvement marks the 25th edition of the prestigious tournament, which takes place from October 1st to 4th at three Scottish courses: the Old Course at St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns.

The championship pairs professional golfers competing on the DP World Tour with amateur players in a format unique among major tournaments. The professional competition carries a prize fund of US$5 million, while the team event draws celebrated amateur golfers paired with professionals. Among this year’s competitors is IWC Brand Ambassador Pablo Larrazábal, who is wearing the new Pilot’s Watch Chronograph (Ref. IW378008).

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The Watch

Larrazábal’s timepiece features a 43-millimetre stainless steel case with an olive-green dial printed in white, complemented by gold-plated hands filled with Super-LumiNova®.

A Quarter-Century of Golf and Charity

The Alfred Dunhill Links Championship has occupied a prominent place on the international golf calendar since its founding in 2001. The tournament’s format—combining professional competition with amateur participation—distinguishes it from conventional tour events and has helped generate millions for charitable causes over the years. Alfred Dunhill itself has supported golf at St Andrews for 41 years, beginning with the Alfred Dunhill Cup in 1985 before transitioning to the Links Championship format.

Tournament Format and Course Selection

Held annually in St Andrews each autumn, the championship unites professional and amateur competitors in two distinct competitions. The use of three world-famous links courses—the Old Course, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns—adds to the distinctive character of the competition.

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IWC’s Partnership

The watchmaker’s return as official timing partner for a sixth successive year underscores the long-standing relationship between the Swiss manufacturer and the championship. IWC has positioned itself prominently within the event, with its brand ambassador joining the field of competitors and the company’s timepieces serving as the official measure of play throughout the tournament.

This article was compiled by the CityLifeBytes editorial desk from the official announcements and reporting listed under Sources.