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Lot #2336

IWC DaVinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Tourbillon IW375203 18k YG

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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 DaVinci ref. IW375501 - the first watch to feature a ceramic case. Ever since the ref. IW375501, the DaVinci collection was regarded as featuring some of IWC’s finest work, and the ref. IW375203 that we here is no different. Launched in 2000 as a limited edition release of 200 pieces to commemorate the turn of the new millennium, the IW375203 boasted the same construction as the updated 1985 DaVinci ref. IW375501 with articulating lugs that attach to a perfectly round case with a double stepped bezel, mushroom-shaped pump pushers and a fluted winding crown. Maintaining its link with that iconic watch, the IW375203 also features a perpetual calendar and chronograph function like its predecessor, but with one impressive addition, a tourbillon that is hidden by the IW375203’s white dial and only viewable through its exhibition caseback. A technically impressive timepiece that is as rare and beautiful as it is mechanically mind-boggling, the IW375203 is, simply put, a masterpiece.

Loupe This Scorecard

Grade

M 8.5

Status

Vetted & Approved

Included

Watch Only

Est. value range

$10,000 – $15,000

The Details

Brand

IWC

Dimensions

39mm

Model

DaVinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Tourbillon

Movement

Manual-wind cal. 76061

Reference

IW375203

Bracelet

Leather strap

Year

Circa 2000

Condition

Excellent

Material

18kt yellow gold

Included

Watch only

Dial Color

White

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Housing a rather traditional white dial, the IW375203'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, and unlike its predecessor, the IW375501, the word "Tourbillon," which is the only hint at its true complexity.

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

Boasting an 18kt yellow gold case with articulating lugs, the IW375203's construction is a fittingly complex housing for one of IWC's most advanced movements ever, especially at the time of its release in 2000.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
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 exhibits light wear and minor oxidation around the edges, but is generally free from any major dings or scratches. Dial near mint showing little to no signs of wear. Please note that the watch is currently running and the tourbillon is functioning 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.

Our Perspective

A mechanical marvel that showcases IWC's technical prowess, the IW375203 is perhaps still one of IWC's most impressive timepieces. With its perpetual calendar function combining with its chronograph and tourbillon, the IW375203 provides its wearer with true watchmaking delight.

Justin Gruenberg

Co-founder