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Lot #1915

IWC Aquatimer 1812

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Introduction

Launched in 1967 as IWC’s first dive watch, the Aquatimer has become a legendary example of an iconic dive watch. While it is undoubtedly a diver, the Aquatimer retains IWC’s refined dressy demeanor in part thanks to its sophisticated bezel system. While external bezels are typically associated with tool watches and dive watches, the Aquatimer uses an internally rotating bezel that is operated by the crown at 2 o’clock, which is mirrored by the crown at 4 o’clock to create a distinct and symmetrical design. Combined with its clear and legible dial layout, stick hands and hour markers, the Aquatimer’s classic round case and angular lugs create a wonderfully familiar presence on the wrist that will comfortably fit most wearers. Powered by an automatic movement and packed with 200m of water resistance, the Aquatimer ref. 812 was an incredibly capable watch when it first came out. Redesignated as the ref. 1812 in October 1971, the Aquatimer was an industry-defining timepiece that more than capable of staying on top of the daily battles of life on the wrist of a vintage watch enthusiast.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

V 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Archive Extract

Est. value range

$8,000 – $12,000

The Details

Brand

IWC

Dimensions

37.5mm

Model

Aquatimer

Movement

Automatic cal. 8541

Reference

1812

Bracelet

Black tropic strap

Year

1976

Condition

Excellent

Material

Stainless steel

Included

Watch and Archival Extract

Dial Color

Black and white

THE DIAL

Boasting a distinctive dial, the Aquatimer's display consists of a black center portion and a white internally-rotating bezel that is operated by the crown at 2 o'clock.

THE CONSTRUCTION

With its two-tone display, twin-crown design and thin bezel stainless steel case, the Aquatimer's construction is easily recognisable and entirely iconic.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

Condition

Watch is in excellent overall condition. Case shows superficial wear and has thick lugs and a sharp bezel. The dial and inner bezel ring are near-mint with no signs of degredation. Tritium luminous of dial, inner bezel and hands are a matching light cream tone.

Our Perspective

An icon within the dive watch niche, the Aquatimer has gone on to become one of IWC's most brand-defining tool watches, along with their Big Pilot and Ingenieur.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder