THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: IWC
MODEL: R818A
YEAR: 1969
BOX/PAPERS: YES/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 35mm
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

In 1944, IWC appointed Albert Pellaton as its new Technical Director. As the war drew to a close, the industry’s mindset shifted toward optimism and innovation. Pellaton wasted no time tackling the complex challenge of developing IWC’s first automatic movement. Several years later, the Calibre 85 series was introduced, featuring the now-iconic Pellaton winding system.

Rather than relying on a traditional gear-driven design, Pellaton devised a unique cam-and-pawl mechanism that winds the mainspring using motion in both directions of the rotor. This innovation not only improved energy transfer but also enhanced long-term durability. To this day, the system continues to power many of IWC’s flagship collections, now updated with ceramic components to further reduce friction and wear.

The example offered here is reference R818A, dating to 1969 and housing the Calibre 8541 movement. On the wrist, it perfectly illustrates why vintage IWCs are so beloved—the 35 mm 18k gold case wears beautifully. The case shows minimal polishing, the dial remains in excellent condition, and the tritium lume has aged to a warm, creamy hue that pairs wonderfully with the gold markers and hands. The watch is also accompanied by its original box.

The movement arrived in great health and is currently running at +3 s/day, with an amplitude of 262° and a beat error of 0.3 ms. Vintage IWCs remain some of the most overlooked watches on the market—and this one is guaranteed to put a smile on your face.