THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: IWC
MODEL: IW3750
YEAR: 2002
BOX/PAPERS: YES/YES
CASE DIAMETER: 39MM
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
Here at Fathom, one of the most frequent questions we get asked is: “What still represents good value in the vintage/neo-vintage world?” While the concept of value is inherently subjective, some brands and models make such a compelling case that even the most skeptical collector would struggle to argue otherwise.
The pair of IWC Da Vinci perpetual calendars we proudly present this week firmly belong in that category. The perpetual calendar is easily one of our favourite complications—for its sheer poetry and romance. The IW3750, however, is not just a perpetual calendar chronograph; it’s the continuation of an idea first set in motion by the great Kurt Klaus. The legendary IWC watchmaker created an ingenious perpetual calendar system that eliminates the usual tangle of correctors and independent adjusters (often operated with a cocktail stick, as many perpetual calendar owners will know). Instead, the system is mechanically programmed to be adjusted entirely via the crown. Astonishingly, the module calculates the lengths of months, leap years, and even century transitions automatically—requiring no manual intervention beyond the occasional winding.
Originally introduced in 1985, the IW3750 remained IWC’s crown jewel for nearly 20 years before being succeeded by the IW3758 (which we also have for sale). This particular example dates to 2002 and features a 39mm 18K yellow gold case. Both the case and dial are in near-perfect condition—the dial has developed a subtle creamy patina that contrasts beautifully with the yellow gold case and the blue aventurine moonphase disk. Time appears to have frozen in 2022, the last time this watch was worn. We’ll leave it to the new owner to experience Kurt Klaus’ genius as they wind the calendar forward to the present day.
The watch comes as a complete set—with its original boxes, guarantee, booklets, receipts, service booklets, service documents, and original alligator straps.
In the world of watch collecting, few would dispute that grand complications sit near the pinnacle. Yet they’ve also become increasingly out of reach—with models like the Patek Philippe 3970 and 5970 (incidentally, two of our all-time favourites) now commanding well over £100,000.
Amazingly, this watch is being offered for less than its original retail price from a few decades ago. An absolutely sensational example of one of the finest IWCs ever made.