iim7v7im7
501
Neither did I
I had been so disenchanted with IWC recently because of the large size of their watches, that it slipped by me. They are using the 89000 series of chronograph calibres in Chronographs in the Aquatimer, Ingenieur, Pilot and Portuguese lines now in select references. There seems to be 3 versions: 89360 and 89361 which are used in models with display case backs. These references are more finished with Cotes de Geneve, Gold Gelt Engraving and Screwhead polishing (ok, but not really that impressive IMO). The 89365 used in my watch is used in a number of other references where a solid case back is used.
The movement design itself is interesting and I am glad that they did it in a 13-1/4 ligne size to allow for smaller watches. The fact that it is an integrated calibre using a column wheel and a vertical clutch, uses the pellaton winding system, has a Flyback function, gets 3 days from a single barrel are all positives IMO. I suspect the size was based on a ETA 7750 replacement strategy longer-term. I am not a fan of the integrated hours and minute register that they have incorporated, but perhaps that is driven by their dial implementations to date. I am glad my pilot only has a minutes register.
IWC now has 4 base in-house calibre series to build upon. I am hoping that they develop a smaller 11-1/2 ligne auto movement to replace their reliance on the venerable ETA 2893/A2 integrating some of their own in-house knowledge. Longer term it would be smart for Richemont to free itself from the Battleship Hayek (this includes freedom from Nirarox-FAR as well).
Bob
New Addition: IWC Spitfire Chronograph (IW387804)
Hi, I wanted to share my new arrival with fellow Purists. It is an IWC Spitfire Chronograph (IW387804). I had really been avoiding most of IWCs recent efforts due to their large size (many recent pilot watches were 46 mm). This one however, was only 43 m...
What a close to the year!
Congratulations! This to stay the decision on the choice of a different shape? ;-) Richard
Yes
Yes, after thinking about my collection, I had 6 dressier pieces and only 3 sports watches, which is a bit out of sync with my day to day lifestyle. I also had 5 light dials and 4 dark dials. So when I was looking at rectangular/square/tonneau shaped watc...
Congrats
That is a great pick up - perfect size and will suit nearly every wearing situation. -- Sancerre
Congrats for this addition!
This Chronograph has a superb dial. Thanks for your comprehensive presentation of the watch! Fx
Very interesting watch ...
I didn't knew that now the Spitfire is powered by an in house movement. Thanks for sharing and congratulations for this beautiful piece. Cheers, Nilo
Neither did I
I had been so disenchanted with IWC recently because of the large size of their watches, that it slipped by me. They are using the 89000 series of chronograph calibres in Chronographs in the Aquatimer, Ingenieur, Pilot and Portuguese lines now in select r...
Great points ...
IWC only needs to get rid of the gigantic watches and I will be in. Cheers Nilo
Indeed!
Dress Options in the 38-40 mm range and more sports options in the 40-42 mm range would be most welcome! They need calibres to support these sizes. Currently, the 5000 auto series is 38.2 mm (large), the 8000 auto series is only 30 mm but is quite thick a...
Agreed on the desirability . . .
. . . of an updated cal 89, Bob. IWC had a reputation for dress watches once upon a time, and it wouldn't hurt to revive it.
Very nice
I really like the look of the dial, and the fact that they haven't chopped off the numerals like on the older Spitfires. Thanks for the review. Cazalea