IWC Watches: A Brand History
IWC watches are a brand that is known for its high-quality, luxury watches. The company has a long and storied history, dating back to 1868 when it was founded by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones. Over the years, IWC has become known for its innovative designs and precision engineering, and its watches are coveted by collectors and luxury watch enthusiasts all over the world. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of IWC Watches, from its early days as a small family business to its current position as one of the most respected luxury watch brands in the world.
How Did the Brand Get its Start
IWC was originally founded in 1868 by an American named Florentine Ariosto Jones. Jones was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and he apprenticed with watchmakers in Switzerland before eventually moving to Schaffhausen, where he established IWC. The company’s first workshop was located beside the Rhine River, and it produced high-quality pocket watches. IWC quickly built a reputation for precision and quality, and it began to gain a following among discerning watch collectors. In the early 20th century, IWC introduced its first wristwatches, and it soon became known for its innovative design and engineering. Today, IWC is one of the world’s leading luxury watch brands, and its timepieces are prized by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe.
Some of the Company's Recent Watch Releases
Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Tribute to 3705”:
In 2019, IWC released the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Tribute to 3705”, a special limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the brand’s iconic Pilot’s Watch Chronograph from 1994. The watch is powered by a chronograph movement, and it features a black dial with white luminous hands and markers. The case is made of stainless steel, and the watch comes with a brown leather strap.
Big Pilot’s Watch Top Gun Edition “Mojave Desert”
In 2018, IWC released the Big Pilot’s Watch Top Gun Edition “Mojave Desert”, a special limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the brand’s iconic Pilot’s Watch from 1940. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, and it features a sand-colored dial with black hands and markers. The case is made of ceramic, and the watch comes with a brown leather strap.
Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Blue Angels”
In 2017, IWC released the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “Blue Angels”, a special limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the brand’s iconic Pilot’s Watch Chronograph from 1994. The watch is powered by a flyback chronograph movement, and it features a blue dial with white hands and markers. The case is made of stainless steel, and the watch comes with a blue leather strap.
Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Edition “Le Petit Prince”
In 2016, IWC released the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Tourbillon Edition “Le Petit Prince”, a special limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the brand’s iconic Pilot’s Watch from 1940. The watch is powered by a perpetual calendar movement, and it features a blue dial with white hands and markers. The case is made of 18-karat red gold, and the watch comes with a blue leather strap.5.
Big Pilot’s Watch 43
In 2015, IWC released the Big Pilot’s Watch 43, a special limited edition timepiece that pays homage to the brand’s iconic Pilot’s Watch from 1940. The watch is powered by a automatic movement, and it features a black dial with white hands and markers.
How to Care for an IWC Watch
IWC watches are known for their quality and durability, but even the most well-made watch will eventually need some care and maintenance. Here are a few tips on how to keep your IWC watch in good condition:
- Wind the watch regularly. This helps to keep the movement working properly and prevents the watch from stopping.
- Clean the watch case and bracelet regularly. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that could cause damage.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. sudden changes in temperature can damage the watch movement.
- Have the watch serviced every few years. This will ensure that all the parts are in good condition and working properly.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your IWC watch in good condition for many years to come.
The Different Types of Straps Available for IWC
IWC watches are available with a variety of strap options to suit any taste. The most popular choice is the classic leather strap, which is available in both black and brown. For a more contemporary look, IWC also offers straps made of stainless steel or rubber. These straps are often adorned with the IWC logo, adding a touch of luxury to the watch. In addition, IWC offers a variety of straps designed for specific occasions, such as diving or formal wear. No matter what your style, there is an IWC strap that is perfect for you.
Celebrities wearing IWC watches in public
Leonardo Dicaprio
At the 2014 Academy Awards, Leonardo DiCaprio was spotted wearing an IWC watch. He has been a longtime fan of the brand, and has been seen wearing various IWC models over the years. In 2012, he even served as the brand ambassador for the Swiss watchmaker. Given DiCaprio’s well-known love of fine watches, it’s no surprise that he would choose to wear an IWC at such a prestigious event. The particular model that he wore at the Oscars is known as the Portugieser Chronograph Classic. With its simple yet elegant design, it’s easy to see why this watch is one of DiCaprio’s favorites.
Cameron Diaz
Academy Award-winning actress Cameron Diaz has been a brand ambassador for Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen since 2014. And she’s often seen wearing the brand’s timepieces on the red carpet and in her everyday life. But when did she first start wearing IWC? The answer may surprise you. In fact, Diaz first wore an IWC watch way back in 1998, when she starred in the action film “The Mask” opposite Jim Carrey. In one scene, Diaz’s character, Fiona, is seen wearing an IWC Portugieser Chronograph. This watch is no longer in production, but at the time, it was one of the brand’s most popular models. And it’s clear that Diaz has been a fan of IWC ever since.
Jennifer Aniston
One of the most iconic looks from the early 2000s was when Jennifer Aniston wore an IWC watch on the red carpet. The Swiss luxury watch brand is known for its classic and timeless designs, and Aniston’s choice of an IWC watch helped to solidify its place as a fashion icon. While the exact model of Aniston’s watch is unknown, it is believed to be either the IWC Portugieser or the IWC Aquatimer. Either way, the sleek and elegant design of the watch is still remembered as one of Aniston’s best red carpet looks.
Barack Obama
IWC has been a favorite brand of watch among U.S. Presidents for many years. Barack Obama is no exception – he has been spotted wearing an IWC watch on several occasions. The most famous instance was during his first term, when he wore an IWC Portugieser Chronograph during a meeting with world leaders at the G20 summit in London. This particular watch is believed to have been a gift from then-British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. Obama has also been seen wearing an IWC Pilot’s Watch Mark XVI, which he received as a gift from German Chancellor Angela Merkel. In addition to these two watches, Obama is also known to own an IWC Aquatimer Chronograph and an IWC Ingenieur Automatic AMG Black Series Ceramic.
If you’re looking for a luxurious and high-quality watch, IWC is the perfect brand for you. With a wide variety of models to choose from, there’s an IWC watch for everyone. And what’s even better is that you can find these watches at La Maison Yamron in Naples, FL. See our collection of timepieces here. Be sure to come by our store, to see them in person.
