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 white 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, the ref. 3750 was a resounding success as it blended traditional sensibilities with modern aesthetics. Indeed, the ref. 3750 was such a success for IWC that in 1995 to celebrate its 10 year anniversary they launched the watch that we have here, the ref. 3751, which features the same case construction and dial design but with one change, a split-second chronograph, as hinted by the inclusion of a new pusher at 10 o’clock and a second central chronograph hand in red that hides underneath the permanently visible blued central chronograph hand. Inspired by its iconic predecessor and a step up in terms of how complicated it is, the ref. 3751 is the apex of neo-vintage IWC offerings.

Watch is in very good overall condition. Case shows some wear, with various nicks and scratches visible on the surface, namely along the bezel. Case has started to develop a warm patina on the surface. Caseback also has some visible scratches and marks, but the engravings are strong and crisp, as are the gold hallmarks located on the lugs. Dial excellent, with light aged luminous. Crystal has some surfaces scratches on the surface. The watch comes with an original IWC strap and 18k gold buckle. Please note that the chronograph function has been tested and is working, but 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.