IWC Ingenieur Collection, which has been constantly on the agenda during the year with the new models introduced in 2017, became the guest of our Hands On corner with the Ref. IW380802 from the Chronograph product group. The model attracts attention with its stunning blue dial as well as it’s fully in-house movement and beautiful metal bracelet.
As I mentioned in my previous articles, IWC mostly focused on their renewed Da Vinci Collection for 2017. The iconic collection was completely renovated with new models inspired by the early designs which were highly praised with the authorities.
The Schaffhausen origin brand kept releasing novelties for other collections from their up to date product line and the iconic Ingenieur Collection was one of them with newly released models. We have the Ref. IW380802 version from the Chronograph series which is arguably the most striking timepiece in the model family.
There are three different versions in the collection and we have the Ref. IW380802 with blue dial and stainless steel case/bracelet. The Chronograph sub-product group includes a silver dial/gold accent with stainless steel case/bracelet (Ref. IW380801) which stands out with its modest yet stylish look and a flagship model offered in an 18K red gold case with a slate dial and a black leather strap (Ref. IW380803).
Like the rest of Ingenieur Collection novelties, IWC Ingenieur Chronograph Ref. IW380802 also comes in the vintage inspired case design measuring 42mm in diameter and 15mm in height, which resembles the collection’s early models from late 60s to early 70s. The case is equipped with scratch resistant sapphire crystals on both sides and it is water resistant to 120 meters which is an adequate figure for a dressy sports chronograph.
The dial is finished in a spectacular blue tone with SunRay pattern which makes it provide different tones of blue under certain angles of light. Designed in classic Tri-Compax style with 12-6-9 lay-out, the dial features a date display at 3 o’clock. Thanks to the contrasting white fonts and SuperLuminova phosphor material applied hands and indices, legibility is perfect in almost every environment.
The model is powered by the brand’s in-house Caliber Ref. 69375 which was debuted in 2016. Designed from scratch by IWC, the self-winding chronograph movement beats at 4Hz and offers a 46 hour power reserve when fully wound. This new movement is designed to replace the brand’s ETA Valjoux 7750 based chronographs which have been in use for a long time. The movement is nicely decorated and can be enjoyed through the sapphire crystal display caseback.
IWC Ingenieur Chronograph Ref. IW380802 comes with a stainless steel bracelet which matches with the case in terms of both design and build quality. The bracelet is secured with an IWC signed push button release folding clasp.
IWC Ingenieur Chronograph Ref. IW380802, which stands out with its striking blue dial, 42 mm vintage inspired case, completely new in-house movement and quality stainless steel bracelet that is a signature detail for the Ingenieur Collection, takes its place as a successful alternative among today’s sports chronograph timepieces.
