IWC Schaffhausen holds a special position within the Swiss watch industry. Since its foundation in 1868, the manufacture has been known for combining traditional watchmaking craftsmanship with a technical and engineering approach, resulting in some of the industry's most iconic watches. The history of IWC is a tale of innovation, precision, and an enduring ambition to create functional luxury watches of the highest quality.
1868: Foundation in Schaffhausen
IWC was founded by the American engineer and watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones, who wanted to combine Swiss craftsmanship with modern American production methods. He established the company in Schaffhausen by the Rhine, where access to hydropower made it possible to optimize production.
The company's official name became International Watch Company, reflecting its international vision from the outset.
Late 1800s: Development and Growth
In the following decades, IWC developed a range of precision watches and robust pocket watches, which quickly gained recognition for their quality and reliability. The company became particularly known for its technical solutions and its focus on functionality rather than lavish decoration.
1930s: Birth of the Pilot's Watch
In 1936, IWC introduced its first pilot's watch, the Special Pilot's Watch. The model was developed for professional pilots and marked the beginning of a tradition that would later make IWC one of the world's most recognized names in pilot's watches.
This legacy lives on today through the popular Pilot's Watches collection.
1940s: Big Pilot and Military Watches
During World War II, IWC produced navigation watches for military aviation. In 1940, the company launched the legendary Big Pilot's Watch, which, with its large case and high legibility, became an important instrument for pilots of the time.
The model is today among the most iconic designs in IWC's history.
1950s and 1960s: Engineering and Innovation
After the war, IWC continued to develop technical solutions for professional users. In 1955, the brand introduced the Ingenieur, developed for people working in environments with strong magnetic fields.
The model cemented IWC's reputation as a brand where functionality and technical innovation have always been central values.
1970s: A New Design Expression
In 1976, the famous watch designer Gérald Genta presented a new version of the Ingenieur, which introduced a more modern and sporty design. The watch became an important chapter in the brand's development and helped define IWC's visual identity in the following decades.
1990s and Beyond: Modern Manufacture
In the subsequent decades, IWC invested significantly in the development of its own manufacture movements and advanced complications. Collections such as Portugieser, Pilot's Watches, Portofino, and Ingenieur achieved great international success and strengthened the brand's position among the world's leading luxury watch manufacturers.
The Portugieser series, in particular, has become a symbol of IWC's ability to combine classic elegance with technical sophistication.
Why is IWC so sought after?
IWC Schaffhausen combines more than 150 years of watchmaking history with modern innovation. The brand is particularly known for:
• Technically advanced manufacture movements
• Iconic pilot's watches and sports models
• Swiss craftsmanship and precision
• Functional and timeless design
• Historic collections such as Portugieser, Ingenieur, and Pilot's Watch
• High recognition among collectors and watch enthusiasts
For many watch connoisseurs, IWC Schaffhausen represents the ideal balance between classic Swiss watchmaking and modern engineering innovation.
Find your next IWC watch at Stæhr Preowned
At Stæhr Preowned, you will find a carefully selected range of IWC watches. Whether you are looking for a classic Portugieser, an iconic Big Pilot, or a modern Ingenieur, we are ready to help you find the IWC watch that suits your wishes and your collection.
