IWC DaVinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Tourbillon IW375203 18k YG 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.
THE DIAL Housing a rather traditional white dial, the IW375203's display is clear and legible, with four sunken subdials housing its chronograph and perpetual calendar inscriptions. Additionally, it also features a digital year indicator, and unlike its predecessor, the IW375501, the word "Tourbillon," which is the only hint at its true complexity.
THE CONSTRUCTION Boasting an 18kt yellow gold case with articulating lugs, the IW375203's construction is a fittingly complex housing for one of IWC's most advanced movements ever, especially at the time of its release in 2000.
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.
