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 their new Technical Director. As the war was coming to an end, the mindset was shifting toward optimism and innovation. Pellaton wasted no time in addressing the complex challenge of creating 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 developed 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 reduce friction and wear even further.

The watch we have here is the Ref. R818A, dating back to 1969 and featuring the Calibre 8541 movement. On the wrist, it reminds us exactly why vintage IWCs are so beloved—the 35mm 18K case wears beautifully. The case has seen minimal polishing, and the dial remains in excellent condition. The tritium lume has aged to a warm, creamy hue that pairs perfectly with the gold markers and hands. The original box is also included.

The movement has recently been checked over and is running well at +4 s/d, 266 amps, with a 0.3 ms beat error. Vintage IWCs remain some of the most overlooked watches out there—and this one is sure to put a smile on your face.