IWC gold cased automatic (1959)

This is an International Watch Company automatic that dates to the late 1950s. This watch is in simply outstanding condition - the champagne coloured dial is flawless and it comes with the original box, surely a sign that the watch was cared for and reserved for wear only on special occasions. The watch has the original signed crown and is a good size for daily wear.

IWC have a long history of horological excellence - they were founded in 1868 and have always aimed for the highest quality in their products. In the 1950s they developed and refined their first automatic movement - the calibre 85xx series. This movement is well respected, the great horological author Donald De Carle describes it in his book "Complicated Watches" as "a simple and ingenious system, well constructed and beautifully finished". Elements of the automatic winding system are still found in contemporary IWC watches.
 
The serial number of the movement dates it to around 1959, the movement is the calibre 853. This was IWC's flagship movement at the time and it is superbly constructed. The balance spring has a Breguet overcoil to enhance time keeping across different positions, along with Reed-type regulator, which allows for very precise adjustment of the time keeping (which is absolutely first rate).

The watch has been fully serviced and regulated, while the case has been cleaned by not re-polished. The watch is fitted with a new Hirsch strap, which complements the watch nicely.


Case diameter (excluding winding crown): 34.5mm
Case material: 18 carat gold
strap width: 18mm
time keeping: grade A+