Exactly five decades ago, in 1976, IWC Schaffhausen unveiled the Ingenieur SL (Reference 1832). Designed by the legendary Gérald Genta, that timepiece helped shape the modern luxury steel sports watch with an integrated bracelet. To mark this 50th anniversary, the Swiss manufacture introduces two limited editions of the Ingenieur Automatic in 40 mm and 35 mm, featuring a brushed silver dial and subtle historical cues.
Tribute to a Rare Collector’s Piece
While Reference 1832 is best known for its grid-patterned dial, IWC also produced a rare execution featuring a vertically brushed silver finish. This rare historical variant serves as the direct inspiration for these new anniversary editions.
Both models present silver-plated brushed dials, rhodium-plated hands, and applied markers filled with Super-LumiNova. The key detail sits just above 6 o’clock: the traditional lightning bolt beneath the “Ingenieur” logo has been replaced with the number 50.
- Limited Edition: Strictly limited to 1,150 pieces for each size.
- Genta DNA: Bezel secured by five functional screws and an integrated stainless steel bracelet.
- Bracelet Finishes: The 40 mm version features a fully satin-finished bracelet, whereas the 35 mm edition adds polished center links.
Two Sizes, Two In-House Calibres
Staying true to their technical origins, each variant houses a dedicated movement tailored to its proportions:
⚙️ Calibre 32111 (40 mm Model)
120-Hour Power Reserve & Anti-Magnetic Protection
Powered by the in-house calibre 32111 featuring a double-pawl winding system. It retains the inner soft-iron cage to protect the movement from magnetic fields.
The 35 mm version (Ref. IW324909) is equipped with the IWC calibre 47110, visible through a sapphire case back showcasing circular graining, Côtes de Genève, and a gold-plated rotor.
Pros & Cons
PROS
- Impressive Autonomy: 120-hour power reserve on the 40 mm version.
- Historical Collector Details: Dedicated “50” numeral replacing the classic lightning bolt and rare brushed dial texture.
- Proportional Options: Available in both 40 mm and 35 mm to suit various wrist preferences.
CONS
- Strictly limited to 1,150 pieces per size.
- The 35 mm model offers 42 hours of power reserve compared to the 120 hours of the 40 mm.
Technical Specifications Comparison
| Specification | Ingenieur 40 (Ref. IW328910) | Ingenieur 35 (Ref. IW324909) |
|---|---|---|
| Case | Stainless steel, 40 mm x 10.8 mm | Stainless steel, 35 mm x 9.4 mm |
| Dial | Brushed silver, “50” replacing the lightning bolt | Brushed silver, “50” replacing the lightning bolt |
| Movement | In-house IWC calibre 32111 | IWC calibre 47110 |
| Power Reserve | 120 hours | 42 hours |
| Case Back | Solid with soft-iron inner cage | Transparent sapphire crystal |
| Water Resistance | 10 bar (100 m) | 10 bar (100 m) |
| Limitation | 1,150 pieces | 1,150 pieces |
