Jeson Clarke

The History of IWC and Their Watches

If you're a luxury timepiece enthusiast, you likely know the big names like Rolex, but there's another watchmaker out there that shouldn't be overlooked: IWC Watches. Although this brand doesn't get as much media attention as a name like Rolex, IWC Watches has been a staple in the collector community for many years, and the company's history stretches back to 1868.

An American in Switzerland

Although the International Watch Company was started in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, the brand was created by an American watchmaker by the name of Florentine Ariosto Jones. Florentine had a dream of combining Western ingenuity in manufacturing with the detailed craftsmanship Swiss watchmakers have been known for over centuries of watchmaking. Jones traveled to Switzerland where he teamed up with his future business partner, Johann Heinrich Moser.

One of the unique things about the manufacturing process at IWC was the use of hydro-power from the Rhine River. By harnessing the natural power of the Rhine, IWC was able to manufacture large quantities of timepieces at affordable prices. Today, IWC timepieces are considered a starting point for collectors as they aren't nearly as expensive as competitors' watches. With that said, if you can get your hands on an IWC Big Pilot model, you may have a pricey watch to add to your collection.

Other Popular Watches From IWC

IWC has produced several other popular luxury watches over the years, including the Ingenieur Ref. 666 in 1966 and the Top Gun in 2007. Collectors should also keep an eye out for the IWC Portuguese line, a series of timepieces released from 1993 through 2005. These watches were originally commissioned by two Portuguese merchants who were looking for Swiss accuracy in a pocket watch format.

The IWC Ocean 2000 "Bund Kampftaucher" Ref. 3314 was released in 1980 and is considered one of the company's premier mine diving watches. This timepiece joins the Vintage Aquatimer Ref. 816 and Vintage Aquatimer Ref. 812 as a sought-after timepiece for diving along with the IWC Ocean 2000 and the Ocean 500.

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Jeson Clarke is providing info about pre-owned luxury watches, selling, buying, watch repair and services. You can find his thoughts at antique watches blog.