Famed for their pilots watches and the like, IWC’s history as a watchmaker with a rich history across all spectra of watchmaking is often forgotten, like their dress watches and their more esoteric creations such as the ref. 4179 we have here. Offered with an 18kt yellow gold construction with a stepped bezel that combines a diamond setting on one of the steps and an onyx bezel on the other that matches the ref. 4179’s black onyx dial and onyx-capped winding crown, this timepiece is an eccentric example of the design language in the 1970s. Impressively thin thanks to its manual-wind cal. 412 movement, this timepiece reminds us of IWC’s talents as a watchmaker who dabbled in the more elegant side of watchmaking than they are typically known for today. Offered with a subtle black only dial, this example’s secret is that it features a Khanjar Dagger engraved caseback, which was engraved on behalf of the Sultanate of Oman. This request was made so that the receiving watch could either be added to the Royal Family’s collection, or so the watch could be gifted to a foreign dignitary, diplomat or someone of high esteem. Rare, visually distinctive and historically significant, timepieces with these royal insignia are extremely collectible and make watches like the example we have here all the more unique and desirable, not that it needs it with its stunning design and impressive execution.

A visually eccentric and unique timepiece with a rich history that makes it all the more special, this ref. 4179 has the makings of a collector's dream watch.