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. While the Da Vinci has grown into a collection with a completely different aesthetic to the original, this timepiece sports all of the design tenants that made the original Da Vinci possible, but with some subtle changes – mainly its wider bracelet center links. On top of its slightly different construction, this timepiece features a textured finish on its precious metal case and bracelet, a diamond-set bezel, and a jet black Khanjar dagger-wielding dial, as ordered on special request by the Sultanate of Oman. Offered with a matching set of yellow gold diamond-set onyx cufflinks and ring, this set was likely gifted to a foreign dignitary, diplomat, or friend of the Sultan, and thus is intensely collectible, rare, and sought-after.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Presentation Box, Cufflinks, Ring and Hang Tag
Est. value range
$15,000 – $25,000
The Details
Brand
IWC
Dimensions
38.5mm
Model
Da Vinci
Movement
8541B Automatic Movement
Reference
N/A
Bracelet
18kt yellow gold bracelet
Year
Circa 1970s
Condition
Like New
Material
18kt Yellow gold
Included
Watch, box, hang tag, cufflinks and ring
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a jet black glossy dial with a red Khanjar Dagger on its printed by IWC on special request for the Sultanate of Oman, this example was likely gifted to a person of high esteem such as a diplomat, dignitary, or someone of very high level of authority. Extremely rare and never offered to the public, these co-signed special order timepieces have become incredibly popular as watch collectors seek the rare, unusual and exclusive.
THE SET
Completing what is already a stunningly luxurious diamond-set timepiece, this example comes with a matching cufflink set and ring made of 18kt yellow gold with black centers outlined by a ring of diamonds, just like the timepiece itself.
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 like new unused condition. Light handling wear, otherwise mint. Bracelet is full lenght and has 31 graduating links, none removable. Onyx ring and cufflinks are in similar near-mint like new condition.
Our Perspective
Offered as a set with its matching cufflinks and ring, this timepiece is already a special example of IWC's craftsmanship, but with its Khanjar dagger-wielding dial, as ordered on special request by the Sultanate of Oman, it is elevated to the apex of collectability amongst the pantheon of impeccable vintage IWC timepieces.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
