Introduction
Coming together in 1978 and beginning as a means for IWC to bolster sales and create new markets for them to tap into, the Swiss watchmaker's collaboration with Porsche has gone down as one of the most successful and iconic collaborations within watchmaking. The collaboration has produced some fantastic watches over the decades, one of which is the Ocean 500, released in 1983; one of which we have here. Taking the period's watch case material experimentation to a whole new level, the Ocean 500 featured a titanium construction that was waterproof to a rather incredible 500 meters. Featuring a heavily-lumed black dial and an integrated bracelet, the Ocean 500 merged IWC's stunning design and craftsmanship with Porsche's sense of adventure to produce a wonderfully robust and capable timepiece that introduced a new design language to the industry while also pushing creative boundaries and showcasing the capabilities of collaborations to produce watches with genuine longevity within collector's circles.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$1,000 – $2,000
The Details
Brand
IWC Porsche Design
Dimensions
34mm
Model
Ocean 500
Movement
Automatic
Reference
IW3503
Bracelet
Titanium bracelet
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Near-mint
Material
Titanium
Included
Watch, box and papers
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
Featuring a black dial with large dive-appropriate luminescent hour markers, this example's lume plots have taken on a creamy yellow color consistent with their age for a wonderfully unique aesthetic.
THE CONSTRUCTION
A unique watch for the time, and still to this day, the Ocean 500's peculiar titanium construction is further set aside due to its aesthetic dissimilarities from other watches of its time, with a single-link integrated bracelet, round case and 4 o'clock position winding crown.
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 near-mint vintage condition. Titanium case and bracelet show minimal signs of surface wear. Original tritium dial and hands are in near-mint condition with lightly aged luminous. Bracelet shows little to no stretch, and has 23 links total. It fits a 6 3/4" wrist.
Our Perspective
Combining an impressive and functional water resistance rating with its unique design and position as a horological icon of collaborative success, the IWC Porsche Design range is beloved by collectors, and it is clear to see why.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
