Lot #3567
IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph IW375034 Stainless Steel
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Introduction
First released in 1969, the IWC Da Vinci began life as an integral part of IWC’s attempt to maintain relevance in the rapidly evolving world of horology following the launch of the world’s first quartz timepiece, Seiko’s Astron model. With its integrated bracelet and thin hexagonal-shaped case, it also foreshadowed the future of luxury watchmaking whereby the AP Royal Oak, Patek Philippe Nautilus, and Vacheron Constantin 222 would become intensely popular. However, the Da Vinci quickly evolved and became IWC’s medium to demonstrate their highest level of watchmaking excellence, a vehicle to showcase their innovation. As such, in 1985 IWC decided to challenge the quartz movement’s dominance and release a movement that flew in the face of what was ‘in’ and it was Kurt Klaus’ ingenious perpetual calendar movement, the IWC cal. 79261 based on the iconic Valjoux cal. 7750 chronograph movement. With that movement in hand, IWC wanted to create a special watch for their very special movement, and so they created the IWC Da Vinci ref. IW3750 and launched it in Baselworld 1985. Featuring a perpetual calendar and chronograph function thanks to the automatic cal. 79621, which is hidden beneath a black dial, the ref. 3750 was one of the most accessible high-complication watches on the market at the time, and so IWC managed to sell 100 units at the event, out of the 500 they had planned to make. Boasting a stunning double-stepped case and a unique articulating lug system, the ref. 3750 was a resounding success as it blended traditional sensibilities with modern aesthetics, a perfect mixture that has earned the ref. 3750 a place in the history books that it still enjoys to this day.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$4,000 – $6,000
The Details
Brand
IWC
Dimensions
39mm
Model
DaVinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph
Movement
Automatic cal. 79261
Reference
IW3750034
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Very Good
Material
Stainless steel
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Housing a rather traditional black dial, the ref. 3750's display is clear and legible, with four sunken subdials housing its chronograph and perpetual calendar inscriptions. Additionally, it also features a digital year indicator at 7:30 as another point of differentiation from other complicated watches from the time.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Boasting a stepped stainless steel case with articulating lugs, the IW3750's construction is a fittingly complex housing for one of IWC's most advanced movements ever at the time.
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
The stainless steel stepped case is in excellent condition, with some surface scratches and a couple of nicks. The case back engravings are very crisp. The crystal has a number of light marks and scratches. The black dial is outstanding, featuring good lume plots that match the lume in the hands. The watch is fitted with a black leather strap and a sleek IWC deployant clasp. Please note that while the watch is keeping time and the chronograph starts, stops and resets properly, the perpetual calendar mechanism has not been tested.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
A mechanical marvel that showcases IWC's technical prowess, the IW3750 is perhaps still one of IWC's most impressive timepieces. With its perpetual calendar function combined with its chronograph, the IW3750 provides its wearer with true watchmaking delight that is only then made all the better with its unique construction that exemplifies traditional aesthetics.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
