THE ESSENTIALS

MAKE: IWC
MODEL: IW3706
YEAR: 1997
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 39MM
CASE MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
BRACELET MATERIAL: STAINLESS STEEL
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC

It’s no secret that we love IWCs here at Fathom. While modern IWCs have taken on an intriguing direction with their (mostly) oversized designs and luxury-focused branding, you don’t have to look far back in the IWC catalogue to find true gems—watches that combine simplicity, robustness, quality, and timeless class.

The watch we have for sale here is a perfect example of what IWC used to represent. Produced from 1994 to around 2005, the IW3706 Pilot Fliegerchronograph offers everything you need in a tool chronograph, and nothing you don’t: a simple black dial with printed numerals, day and date windows at 3 o’clock, a 39mm case with a predominantly brushed satin finish and slim polished bevels, an IWC-modified Valjoux 7750 movement, and a comfortable bracelet to complete the package.

It’s no wonder the IW3706 became one of IWC’s most popular and beloved models of the 1990s and early 2000s. Beautiful yet unpretentious, it delivered exactly what IWC buyers were looking for in a market dominated by flashier Swiss luxury brands. The present example features an early tritium dial—our favourite variation. Over the years, the tritium lume on the markers and hands has developed a clean, creamy patina, adding a touch of romance to an otherwise rugged tool watch.

The watch has been freshly inspected and is running well at +2 s/d, 292 amplitude, with a 0.1 ms beat error. It comes with its pyramid bracelet and instruction booklet.