IWC - WINNING ICONS – Legendary Watches of the 20th Century New York Thursday, October 26, 2017 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: IWC
    Year: 1977
    Reference No: 812 AD
    Movement No: 2’151’566 and C8541B
    Case No: 1’937’617
    Model Name: Aquatimer
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 8541 B
    Bracelet/Strap: Original IWC Gay Frères stainless steel bracelet, max. length 205mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel IWC folding deployant clasp
    Dimensions: 37.5mm diameter
    Accessories: Accompanied by IWC guarantee dated 18 July 1977 and fitted presentation box.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Some of the most important dive watches of the 20th century were introduced in the mid 1950s following World War II, incorporating technological advances developed during the war. A late entrant to this market was IWC. While they followed nearly a decade after others, the Aquatimer remains a distinguished model for both its aesthetics and engineering excellence. Released in 1967 and produced in far fewer examples than competing dive watches, the reference 812 AD is an iconic IWC watch for connoisseurs. The Aquatimer has a modern, sleek appeal with a ‘super compressor’ case that has less bulk compared with other dive watches of the era. A timing ring placed underneath the crystal replaces the outer rotating bezel. This works as a safety mechanism, keeping the bezel from being bumped, and accidentally changing the time, as well as giving the watch a flatter profile. Further, the in-house caliber 8541 movement features the innovative “Pellaton” winding system, patented by IWC in 1950. Using a bi-directional rotor improved efficiency, giving greater winding power. The present timepiece is preserved in wonderful condition with an unpolished case, strong bevels and a very attractive overall appeal. Sold on July 18th, 1977, it is fitted with its original and hardly ever seen bracelet made by Gay Frères.

  • Artist Biography

    IWC

    Swiss • 1868

    With a clear focus on technology and development, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has been producing timepieces of lasting value since 1868. The company has gained an international reputation based on a passion for innovative solutions and technical ingenuity. One of the world's leading brands in the luxury watch segment, IWC crafts masterpieces of haute horlogerie at their finest, combining high precision with masculine design. Vintage wristwatches such as the oversized Portugieser, Aquatimer, Ingenieur and the B-UHR pilots watch are especially desirable for collectors.

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2

Ref. 812 AD
A highly attractive and well-preserved stainless steel wristwatch with center seconds, date aperture and bracelet.

1977
Case, dial and movement and bracelet signed
37.5mm diameter

Estimate
$8,000 - 16,000 
CHF7,800-15,600
€6,800-13,600
HK$62,500-125,000

Sold for $30,000

Contact Specialist
Paul Boutros
Head of Watches, Americas
+1 212 940 1293
pboutros@phillips.com

WINNING ICONS – Legendary Watches of the 20th Century

New York Auction 26 October 2017