A very early version of the second Aquatimer model IWC ever produced, with the lovely faded blue dial.  Model reference 816 AD

HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?

From the serial number on the movement we can accurately date this watch to being made in 1968.  The first IWC Aquatimer (812AD) was launched in 1967, and this 816 AD officially came two years later.  This could be a very early one ready for the launch.

CONDITION

The Aquatimer models of this period all used an internal bezel, under the glass, rather than the traditional divers watch bezel on the outside, which makes them stand out.  It also makes them rare – it seems the market wanted the external bezel.  We first saw this model in the IWC Museum in Shaffhausen, and it has taken years to find an example we could offer.  This example has the blue fade dial and this is the mid price range of the three dials (solid black is the cheapest, the faded brown the most expensive) and has the correct internal bezel insert.  It looks unlike any other diver we can think of.  The dial has a few small marks, very minor, and the hands may have been relumed as they still glow lightly and probably shouldn’t by now.   The movement is the automatic IWC 8541B,, with the Pellaton winding mechanism and micro adjustment.  It can be handwound too via the crown at 4, and the top crown smoothly operates the internal bezel.  Both crowns have the cross hatching of the super compressor cases, but maybe they should have the fish logo IWC use on waterproof watches.  The case is solid with a nice case back, but there are signs of polishing in the past.  The Tropic style sport rubber strap is new, and could be swapped for a different strap if preferred.  There are some compromises with this watch, but if it were the brown dial, near perfect condition and on the GF bracelet it would be double the price if you could find one.

This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.  This watch has been checked against the Watch Register and has not been reported as lost, stolen or implicated in fraud, and a copy of that certificate will also be included.

Please see the HD video for more detail.  All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned.  We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.

​SIZE

Width with crown  42.0 mm

Width without crown  41.0 mm

Between lugs  22 mm

Lug to lug length  43.1 mm

Case Thickness  14.2 mm

All sizes are approximate.  The watch is photographed on a wrist of 190mm/7.5 inches.

Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses.  If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries.  Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us.   Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.

From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon.  By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.

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