Why This Watch Matters Peloton might be all the rage, but it has nothing on this Pellaton winding system. The Full Story IWC's dress models from the 1960s are some of our favorite vintage watches time and time again. This example comes across as very minimalist on the surface, but diving into the details, we see purpose in each element of this design, which results in a stunningly harmonious visual profile. The stainless steel case comes in above standard sizing for the era, measuring at 36.5mm in diameter; the wide-set bezel gives it an even larger presence on the wrist. The dial is a classic silver color with a sunburst finish that has gained a gorgeous soft patina over the decades, resulting in a very light champagne shimmer that plays with the light at varying angles. Devoid of any information you do not need, IWC kept the text to a minimum on this watch, with only the company's vintage script logo and a subtle "AUTOMATIC" indication above the six o'clock position and a "SWISS" wordmark underneath it at the very bottom of the dial. The applied hour baton markers and dauphine hands have black accents that add stark contrast against the monochromatic design. The date window is set slightly closer to the center of the dial, compared to its usual placement further to the right, which is a slightly interesting attribute. IWC's capabilities extend far beyond the apparent and visual. Under the hood is the self-winding caliber 8531 (the "1" at the end indicates this variant includes a date function), which is based on the brand's proprietary Pellaton automatic winding system that was developed by Albert Pellaton in 1950. This new self-winding architecture was considered revolutionary for its time, as it allowed energy to be transferred from the bi-directional rotor to the mainspring, a considerably more efficient solution compared to other self-winding movements of the era. Another practical feature of this caliber is that the date can be advanced by moving the hands either forward and backward instead of having to make a full rotation. Nearly 70 years since its creation, variations of the Pellaton self-winding system are still in use today in some modern IWC creations. We paired this outstanding IWC with our neutral-colored Ash Grey Sedona Strap to highlight the black accents on the hour markers and hands. The color also keeps with the monochromatic theme. The Fine Print Maker: IWCModel: N/AReference: 647AYear: Circa early 1960sCase No: 1743643Movement No: 1696123Material: Stainless steelDimensions: 36.5mm diameter; 11mm thicknessCrystal: PlexiglassLume: NoCaliber: IWC, self-winding, caliber 8531Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE The Sedona Watch Strap In Ash GreyLug Width: 18mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know The watch is in overall great vintage condition. The case is strong with the satin and polished finishes that are clearly defined by sharp edges on the case. There are some light scratches on the case, notably on the caseback, something most likely caused from the case being opened. The silver dial has a soft, warm light champagne patina overall. The hands show some light wear overall. The crown is unsigned. The dial, case, and movement are signed by IWC. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
