IWC
1950s IWC Automatic Calatrava 18K YG "Cal. 8521"
Founded more than 150 years ago, the International Watch Company has grown to become one of the most recognizable Swiss watch brands on the planet. One of the things they're especially famous for is their "Post-War" in-house movements, manual and automatic mechanical masterpieces which are long-time favorites among the watch community and IWC enthusiasts alike.
IWC’s Caliber 8521 originally came into production post-war, in 1952. Featuring the Pellaton winding system which was a new and extremely efficient movement system for perpetual automatic wristwatch movements. This innovative movement was patented by IWC in 1950 and we saw the first mass production of these watches in 1952. The Pellaton winding system is still used in IWC watches today and has been improved upon ever since. Surrounding the heartbeat is an absolutely beautiful yellow gold Calatrava-style case and dial. It's as classic—and classy—as they come and would look good on any wrist, in pretty much any setting
SPECS
| Stock # | IWC18KCAL8521 | |
| Brand | IWC | |
| Style | Automatic Calatrava | |
| Model | Cal. 8521 | |
| Serial | 14XXXXX | |
| Size | Men's | |
| Material | 18K Yellow Gold | |
| Dial | Gold | |
| Millimeters | 34.5 | |
| Bracelet | 2pc Handmade Leather Strap |
CASE & BRACELET
The elegant yet robust 18K yellow gold case features long, broad lugs that extend the overall dimensions of the watch. The case exhibits nominal evidence of previous polishing as the lugs remain extremely thick with strong factory dimensions and angles throughout. Signs of very gentle use are present throughout the case as well. The case retains its original IWC fish logo crown. The snap-on case back is in excellent condition. The watch comes supplied on a 2pc handmade leather strap.
DIAL & HANDS
The original satin gold "pie-pan" dial is in wonderful condition with a charming vintage aesthetic, showing some expected elements of age concentrated at the center of the dial. The radium lume plots remain mostly intact throughout the dial though degradation is present under UV light inspection. The original yellow gold dauphine-style hands have been professionally restored with radium and display a pale grey coloration.
ACCESSORIES
None. The watch was recently service and is keeping time perfectly, backed by a 1-year warranty of accurate timekeeping.