78 Iwc A rare and highly special IWC Ingenieur in stainless steel with Khanjar logo, argentè dial bracelet and box

Estimate: € 6,000 –⁠ 12,000

Model: Ingenieur
Material: Stainless Steel
Case N°: 1398231
Caliber: 852
Movement N°: 1396978
Bracelet: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 34
Accessories: Box

Calibre 852, the next generation with central seconds, was the first self-winding movement encased under a soft-iron core, introduced under the name “Ingenieur” in 1954. This innovative movement was created by the IWC’s technical director Albert Pellaton which gave birth to the renowned Ingenieur model. Even if it was designed as a classical watch, it immediately became renowned for being a great instrument especially for scientists and technicians, providing them all the required specifications: water resistance, antimagnetic properties and high precisions. It was available in gold, steel, steel and gold and with a variety of dial styles but is also very remembered by watches aficionados for its particular logo of an arrow passing through the name “Ingenieur”. Memory of the Swiss thunderbolt icon which warns of the presence of an electrical current that specific symbol was chosen to mark the model’s anti-magnetic properties with the soft iron shield protecting the movement against magnetic shields. The present wristwatch it’s absolutely stunning: the “grain de riz” bracelet seems it has never been worn due to its perfect shape, the stainless steel case as well is well preserved but the dial is the most striking component. The argentè satin finish composition is further embellished by the rare and always appreciated Khanjar logo. Emblazoned on Oman’s white, red, and green flag it is the national emblem: the Khanjar has been used in Oman since at least the 3rd millennium BCE, and even in the distant past, they appear to have fulfilled a ceremonial as well as practical purpose. It has became known in the recent years for being depicted on special watches directly commissioned by the Sultan of Oman, His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said al Said. When found on a wristwatch, the Khanjar automatically makes them extremely rare and are considered amongst the world’s most sought-after collectible pieces such as the present lot.