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IWC Schaffhausen: Engineering Beyond Time
Established in 1868, IWC Schaffhausen stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of their founder, Florentine Ariosto Jones. Combining American production techniques with Swiss watchmaking craftsmanship, Jones envisioned a centralised manufacturing system powered by the Rhine River's perpetual energy. Nestled in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, the brand were among the pioneers of industrial watchmaking.
IWC’s heritage are deeply rooted in crafting timepieces that seamlessly combine precision engineering with timeless design. During the First and Second World Wars, they produced military-specification pilot watches for the German Air Force. These robust and reliable Flieger watches supported renowned aviators such as the Red Baron (Manfred von Richthofen) and the Black Devil (Erich Hartmann) in their successful missions. Post-war, this iconic Flieger watch evolved into the legendary Big Pilot. In addition to supplying the German Air Force, IWC provided the British Army with their W.W.W. (Watch, Wrist, Waterproof) models. Renowned for their accuracy and dependability, these timepieces gained significant popularity among the upper echelons of militaries worldwide.
IWC Schaffhausen’s contributions to horology are numerous and noteworthy. Their technical innovations include the Pellaton Winding System, which enhances the efficiency and durability of automatic movements. During the Quartz Crisis, IWC not only survived but thrived, achieving a landmark year in 1973 due to their commitment to mechanical excellence. In 1993, to commemorate their 125th anniversary, they unveiled the Il Destriero Scafusia, the most complicated mechanical watch of its time. Limited to 125 pieces, this masterpiece showcased tourbillons, perpetual calendars, and split-second chronographs, cementing their place in haute horlogerie.
Their commitment to longevity extends beyond artistry to responsibility towards the planet and its resources. This dedication to sustainability and innovation is exemplified by their partnership with Natural Fibre Welding to produce straps made from MIRUM®—a bio-based, plastic-free material. This initiative underscores their efforts to minimise environmental impact while upholding their renowned quality. Over the years, IWC have also been favoured by cultural icons and collectors alike. Their timepieces have graced the wrists of luminaries such as Morgan Freeman and John Mayer, further solidifying their status as a symbol of understated luxury.
The Complete IWC Universe: Every Collection, Every Detail
From the skies with Pilot’s Watches to the seas with Aquatimer, IWC's collections – Portugieser, Portofino, Ingenieur, Da Vinci, and Spitfire – narrate tales of precision, innovation, and elegance. Each embodies a unique chapter in IWC's pursuit of engineering artistry.
Pilot’s Watches
The Pilot’s Watches collection is deeply intertwined with aviation history. Introduced in the 1930s, these timepieces were initially designed as navigation instruments for pilots, offering unparalleled precision and reliability. Among the most notable pieces is the Big Pilot’s Watch, which retains its iconic oversized crown and dials designed for easy readability. Special iterations include the Spitfire series, paying homage to the Supermarine Spitfire fighter plane, and the Top Gun line, inspired by the elite training programme of the US Navy. Another cherished subset is the Le Petit Prince collection, dedicated to Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, featuring distinctive blue dials as a nod to the famed author of The Little Prince.
Portugieser
Born out of a request in 1939 from Portuguese merchants for a wristwatch with the precision of a marine chronometer, the Portugieser has become a hallmark of understated sophistication. This collection showcases IWC’s prowess in crafting large, highly legible dials inspired by nautical instruments. The line has evolved to include various complications, such as the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar and the Yacht Club Chronograph, catering to those who seek both technical complexity and aesthetic elegance. The Portugieser’s clean lines and dynamic proportions ensure its timeless appeal.
Portofino
The Portofino collection embodies effortless elegance, drawing inspiration from the tranquil charm of the Italian fishing village after which it is named. Known for its minimalist design, this collection appeals to those who appreciate classic aesthetics. Notable models include the Portofino Automatic Moon Phase and the Portofino Hand-Wound Tourbillon Retrograde, which balance sophistication with practicality. Popular with both men and women, the Portofino's versatility makes it a fitting companion for both casual and formal occasions.
Ingenieur
Introduced as a tribute to engineers, the Ingenieur collection exemplifies resilience and technical mastery. Its key features include protection against magnetic fields, shocks, and water. Originally conceived in the mid-20th century, the collection was redefined in the 1970s by Gérald Genta, whose design transformed the Ingenieur into a versatile luxury sports watch. Today, the Ingenieur continues to uphold its legacy, combining robust construction with refined finishing.
Aquatimer
The Aquatimer collection caters to underwater explorers, with roots dating back to the 1960s when recreational diving gained popularity. Known for its high water resistance and innovative safety features, this collection is equally suited for adventures on land. A standout moment in its history was the 1982 collaboration with Porsche Design, resulting in the Ocean 2000, a titanium watch capable of withstanding depths of 2000 metres. Current iterations of the Aquatimer retain this spirit of innovation, offering durability and sporty aesthetics.