2023 Watches and Wonder is underway in Geneva, blessing timepiece lovers with first glimpses of new, well, watches and wonders.
For day one, IWC Schaffhausen wasted no time presenting one of the most eye-catching pieces yet at the exhibition, the Ingenieur Automatic 40.
A blast from the past, the IWC's Ingenieur Automatic 40 is essentially a re-issue of Gérald Genta's Ingenieur design. Initially launched in 1955, the Ingenieur was redesigned by Genta in the 70s as IWC wanted to give the watch a sportier vibe.
IWC asked and Genta answered, with the Swiss designer reintroducing the model with an H-link bracelet and screw-on bezel with five recesses, all topped with a steel coat. And the rest is history.
The IWC Ingenieur Automatic 40 reworks Genta’s Ingenieur SL but with a more modernized and innovative approach (sort of like hitting refresh on 70s Ingenieur).
The H-link bracelet is back but narrowed for a sleeker look. At the same time, the grid pattern on the dial is more defined for a sophisticated feel.
For the bezel, functional polygonal screws secure the bezel to the case, allowing the recesses to maintain the same position and thus a more consistent look amongst the watches (this was a problem in the past).
The 40mm watch also arrives with an IWC-manufactured 32111 calibre matched with a 120-hour power reserve and water-resistant capabilities (part of that sporty edge).
The IWC Ingenieur Automatic 40 arrives in four options: three stainless steel watches and a titanium version. The stainless steel pieces ($11,700 each) come with black, silver, or an aqua/green grid dial. On the other hand, the glistening titanium runs for $14,600 with a sleek gray dial.
For those who casually have $17K to spare for IWC's new watch, you're more than welcome to take up a purchase request with the watchmaker through their website.
