A Beautiful and Unusually Opulent 18ct Gold IWC Dress Watch with an Aftermarket Diamond Bezel in Superb Condition, c.1978

The International Watch Company (IWC), founded in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, is renowned for its precision engineering and timeless elegance. Jones aimed to blend advanced American production techniques with skilled Swiss craftsmanship. IWC’s journey began with the development of high-quality pocket watches.

In the early 20th century, IWC pivoted to wristwatches, gaining recognition for robust models designed for aviators. The 1936 release of the IWC Pilots Watch marked a significant milestone. Post-World War II, the IWC Portugieser series emerged, characterized by its large case and clear design, appealing to maritime navigators.

The 1980s saw innovation with the Da Vinci line, featuring the first Swiss-made chronograph with a perpetual calendar. Today, IWC blends heritage with modern technology, producing iconic collections like the Aquatimer, Ingenieur, and Portofino, all celebrated for their elegance and technical prowess. This blend defines IWC as a pioneer in luxury watchmaking.

What’s on Offer

My boss has a saying ‘Find me another’ when he is excitedly presenting a unique watch that he cannot find another example of! This is one of those watches…

I simply cannot find another the same as this anywhere, just look at that jumbo TV case in solid gold with (what we think) is an aftermarket diamond bezel! At 40mm wide this is a very substantial watch for the time of its production and it looks absolutely stunning on the wrist. It is opulent without being ostentatious even though it is crafted from 18k gold and boasts that beautiful bezel. The dial is blemish-free and has a subtle texture with beautiful applied furniture comprising slim baton hour markers with onyx inserts and corresponding hands. There is a subtle date wheel at 3 o’clock which is neatly framed in gold. The integral tapered bracelet is also crafted from 18k gold and is in superb condition. We are delighted to offer such an exquisite watch for sale in outstanding condition. As I say, we cannot find another watch like this so if you love it like we do, don’t sleep on it!