Although mostly known for their pilot’s watch, IWC is also responsible for some very professional diving timepieces. Especially their “Aquatimer” collection which is now celebrating the 35th anniversary of the original “Ocean 2000” model.
This timepiece was originally created by Ferdinand A. Porsche, in 1982. And as his name indicates he was the grandson of Ferdinand Porsche the founder of the Porsche car company. His grandsons most known product design would have to be the first “Porsche 911”, but he would also go on to design a watch.
Ferdinand A. Porsche * Image courtesy of: Wikipedia
It all began in 1978 when Ferdinand teamed up with IWC to develop a wristwatch combining non-magnetic automatic movement and a compass, dubbed the “IWC Kompassuhr”. This was also the first timepiece to incorporate titanium thanks to IWC and the Ferdinand collaboration. And this trend would be highly assimilated by the industry, as it also began producing titanium bracelets.
“IWC Kompassuhr”, circa 1978 * Image courtesy of: IWC
So, the 42mm case is made out of titanium with a solid case back that features an engraving of a “diving helmet” and the limited edition number of each edition. Though initially this watch was made out of PVD coated aluminium in a 48mm case, later versions would be produced in titanium. Since as before mentioned IWC along with Ferdinand pioneered the use of titanium in wristwatches. This collaboration would require them to develop specific work processes were they accounted for titanium’s specific properties and the ideal forms to craft it.
Image courtesy of: IWC
Also comes equipped with the combination internal/external SafeDive bezel system for timing dives, just like the one found on all current IWC watches. The use of titanium in this instance helps keep weight to a minimum and the luminous hands over the black dial are perfectly legible. Furthermore its screw-in crown assists in keeping water-resistance on this watch capable of reaching up to 2000 meters (6560 feet). Noteworthy fact this watch is now the thinnest dive watch in the IWC collection; despite its 14.5mm thickness.
Image courtesy of: IWC
Time is exhibited on a black dial with white hour index markers, followed by a ring of smaller minute index markers. Under the sapphire crystal we can see the inner rotating elapsed time ring, which is controlled by the external bezel.
Image courtesy of: IWC
They are both linked together by a series of gears concealed under a cap on the case, located at the 9 o’clock position. Hands and hour index markers have under gone a luminescent coating, for an enhanced legibility. There is also a date aperture located at the 3 o’clock position.
Image courtesy of: IWC
IWC Aquatimer Automatic 2000 Edition ’35 Years Ocean 2000’
This “IWC Aquatimer Automatic 2000 Edition ’35 Years Ocean 2000’” (Ref#: IW329101) is powered by a self-winding mechanical movement, caliber A30120 with 21 jewels and 28,800 vph. Power reserve on this timepiece can last up to 42 hours, when fully wound. Mounted to the watch is an IWC black rubber strap, secured to the wrist by an IWC-patented quick-change system. This is a limited edition watch with only 350 pieces manufactured. For further information visit the official IWC website.
MSRP: $7,400.00 USD
Image courtesy of: IWC
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IWC, IWC Schaffhausen, Aquatimer, Luxury Watches
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