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IWC Schaffhausen Caliber 89 – 18K Gold – Circa 1951 – Exceptional Original Example
A refined expression of mid-century Swiss horology, this elegant timepiece from IWC Schaffhausen embodies the brand’s enduring commitment to precision, restraint, and mechanical excellence. Powered by the celebrated Caliber 89, this watch represents one of the finest hand-wound movements ever produced by IWC.
Dating to approximately 1951 (serial 1,214,066), this example stands out for its remarkable originality and preservation—qualities increasingly sought after by discerning collectors.
Specifications
This watch presents in excellent, honest vintage condition, with strong collector appeal:
The original dial is beautifully preserved, exhibiting a gentle, even patina consistent with age and no signs of refinishing
The crown appears period-appropriate; as with many watches of this age, it may have been replaced during routine service.
Collector Notes
The Caliber 89 is widely regarded as one of IWC’s most accomplished movements—renowned for its durability, accuracy, and elegant construction. Comparable in quality to contemporaries from Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin, it remains a cornerstone of serious vintage collections.
Examples combining original dial, correct case, and clean movement—as seen here—are becoming increasingly scarce.
Price: Chat GTP suggests a price of $6,250.00 USD
Listed here for $5,250 Canadian. For a FTF in the GTA or plus insured shipping
The 18K Gold in this watch is over $3K just in melt!
Summary
An exceptional and highly original early 1950s IWC in solid gold—offering understated sophistication, mechanical pedigree, and enduring value. A compelling acquisition for the seasoned collector or the connoisseur seeking a timeless dress watch.
Note: This watch has been examined by one of Canada best dial refinishers and he claims it to be original!
Pictures:
A refined expression of mid-century Swiss horology, this elegant timepiece from IWC Schaffhausen embodies the brand’s enduring commitment to precision, restraint, and mechanical excellence. Powered by the celebrated Caliber 89, this watch represents one of the finest hand-wound movements ever produced by IWC.
Dating to approximately 1951 (serial 1,214,066), this example stands out for its remarkable originality and preservation—qualities increasingly sought after by discerning collectors.
Specifications
- Brand: IWC Schaffhausen
- Year: Circa 1951
- Movement: Caliber 89, manual-wind
- Case: Solid 18K gold (0.750), Swiss hallmarked
- Case Size: 35.8mm (excluding crown)
- Dial: Original silver-tone dial with applied Arabic numerals (12, 3, 6, 9) and baton markers
- Hands: Original dauphine hands
- Crystal: Acrylic
- Strap: Brown leather (later replacement)
This watch presents in excellent, honest vintage condition, with strong collector appeal:
The original dial is beautifully preserved, exhibiting a gentle, even patina consistent with age and no signs of refinishing
- The 18K gold case remains well-defined, with sharp lugs and minimal evidence of polishing
- The movement is exceptionally clean, with correct engravings and no visible corrosion
- The interior caseback displays proper Swiss hallmarks and finishing, confirming authenticity and period correctness
The crown appears period-appropriate; as with many watches of this age, it may have been replaced during routine service.
Collector Notes
The Caliber 89 is widely regarded as one of IWC’s most accomplished movements—renowned for its durability, accuracy, and elegant construction. Comparable in quality to contemporaries from Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin, it remains a cornerstone of serious vintage collections.
Examples combining original dial, correct case, and clean movement—as seen here—are becoming increasingly scarce.
Price: Chat GTP suggests a price of $6,250.00 USD
Listed here for $5,250 Canadian. For a FTF in the GTA or plus insured shipping
The 18K Gold in this watch is over $3K just in melt!
Summary
An exceptional and highly original early 1950s IWC in solid gold—offering understated sophistication, mechanical pedigree, and enduring value. A compelling acquisition for the seasoned collector or the connoisseur seeking a timeless dress watch.
Note: This watch has been examined by one of Canada best dial refinishers and he claims it to be original!
Pictures: