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
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.