IWC Pilot Double Chronograph Split Second (New Old Stock) Ref. 3711
The IWC Doppelchronograph 3711, the first 7750-Based Split-Seconds Chrono. Own a bit of watch history and one of the most significant IWC models produced, which today is very rare and special. This particular watch is even more special, since it has not been worn in 30 years and still comes in original, unworn condition!
The watch is delivered on the original black strap, with a custom strap on top, full set. The watch works flawlessly.
The following article from https://monochrome-watches.com/collectors-corner-why-you-should-consider-iwc-pilots-watch-doppelchronograph-3711/
summarizes the 3711 beautifully and also points out the historical significance.
Inside the case is the automatic calibre 79030. The 79030 is based on a Valjoux 7750 ébauche with a modular split-seconds chronograph mechanism designed by Richard Habring. He significantly simplified what is otherwise a notoriously difficult and expensive complication to create the world’s first serially produced rattrapante chronograph calibre. The 79030 has a 3Hz beat rate, bi-directional winding, and a healthy 44-hour power reserve.
The Doppelchronograph is instantly recognizable as an IWC and the historical significance of the 3711 should be appealing to any collector, as you are buying into a chapter of complications history. The Doppelchronograph was the first step toward the democratization of high complications. The genius of Richard Habring’s rattrapante system is that it is based on the readily-available Valjoux 7750 base movement. By extending the same philosophy of ease of machining and assembly to the rattrapante, Habring created one of the most durable and affordable split-seconds chronographs on the market.
The Doppelchronograph was manufactured only for four brief years, between 1992 and 1995.
That short production run make it a relatively uncommon watch. The Double Chronograph is an IWC icon that lives on today in the form of the ref. IW371815, the Pilot’s Watch Double Chronograph Top Gun Ceratanium. If anything, this speaks to the timelessness of Richard Habring’s groundbreaking innovation – it is still relevant 30 years after its introduction.
After all, there has to be a reason the caseback of the original read “DER DOPPELCHRONOGRAPH”, German for the double chronograph. Not just any double chronograph, but the double chronograph!
