IWC, which welcomed the year 2017 with the renewed face of the Da Vinci Collection known with its classic designs, became a guest of our Hands On corner with the Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph from the flagship models of the product group.
One of the most important models of the renewed Da Vinci Collection which was launched at SIHH 2017, Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph attracts attention with its unique lug design and round case form like the first version Ref.3570 introduced in 1985.
The new collection features two versions as 18K pink gold and stainless steel. The one we have here today is the 18K pink gold version.
I mentioned that the new model is similar to the first version produced in the 80s. The most obvious similarities are the unique lug design (though it’s not exactly the same as the Ref.3570) and the round case. Also, it is possible to mention the baroque design details in general.
First generation IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph
The new model is offered in an 18K pink gold case measuring 43mm. Due to the movement inside the case is a bit in thick with its total height of 15.5mm. The new case design features movable lugs which are connected to the case with one side while the other holds the strap in place. This detail, which carries the overall appearance of the watch in a bigger and more assertive dimension, successfully balances the weight of the 18K gold model, allowing the watch to be used comfortably. The rounded bezel fits with the rest of the case which is all mirror polished finished.
The case sports anti reflective scratch resistant sapphire crystals on both sides. The see-through display caseback is mounted on the case with 6 little screws. The timepiece is water resistant to 30 meters and all its functions are controlled by a single winding crown and a pair of chronograph pushers in 18K pink gold. The winding crown features the IWC logo with the Schaffhausen Probus text.
The new IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph is also updated with its dial as well. When IWC combines perpetual calendar and chronograph functions in the same watch, the displays for date and month are in windows instead of sub-dials. In this model, those functions are displayed in retro looking round sub-dials and accompanied with a moon phase indicator.
The dial, accompanied by pink gold details, is able to provide the necessary contrast for the visibility of the hands, which consist of pink gold and blue tones, while allowing the correct reading of functions with a light color background. The sub-dial located at 12 o’clock with the miniature moon phase indicator, is prepared in blue color.
IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph is powered with the brand’s in-house Caliber Ref. 89630. Based on the 89XXX family which we see several variations in different IWC models, the movement beats at 4Hz and offers a power reserve of 68 hours when fully wound. The movement sports a column wheel and vertical clutch chronograph module with a bonus Flyback feature this time, as well as a Perpetual Calendar module which can be set by the only winding crown. 51 jeweled movement, which features mirror polished bridges, flame-blued screws and a solid pink gold oscillating rotor, can be enjoyed through the sapphire crystal display caseback.
The new model comes on a brown alligator strap made by the famous shoemaker Santoni. The strap, which nicely balances the watch thanks to the movable lugs, is secured with a folding clasp made of 18K pink gold.
IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph slowly takes its place in the brand’s exclusive boutique with a MSRP of 42.600.00 EUR.
