131 IWC Rare, Highly Special and Large, Ingenieur SL “Jumbo”, Quartz Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With Champagne Dial, Reference 9503

Estimate: €20,000 –⁠ 40,000

Model: Ingenieur SL
Reference: 9503
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1977
Movement: Quartz
Caliber: 2405
Case N°: 2238072
Movement N°: 2289004
Dimensions: 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement

Famous for designing the Royal Oak and the Nautilus, Gérald Genta was tasked by IWC, at the height of the quartz crisis, to radically redesign the Ingénieur. In the early 1970s, a “scaphander” diving helmet inspired Gérald Genta to adopt a distinctly modernist, technical approach to architecture. In 1976 he helped IWC launch its 3rd generation of the Ingénieur aligning with the brand’s forward-thinking strategy for a complete “steel line” (SL) with a radically different design. The result was the ref. 1832 and the 3003 Ingénieur SL and based on it after only one year in 1977 the 9503, such as the here offered lot, that recording only 45 pieces total quartz in yellow gold, making it a true collectable piece also considering the incredible appealing that all Genta’s creations are having in recent years. The cushion-shaped case features 5 distinct recesses in the bezel which are used to apply the screwing tools and further serve as decoration for the watch. Since the bezel was screwed on to a random position, the recesses on the bezel are aligned slightly differently on every watch, giving each one a somewhat different appearance. The yellow gold, three-piece antimagnetic case provides water resistance up to 120 m, further featuring its original crown. Unusually thick by the standards of the day, it creates a noticeable presence on the wrist. The satin champagne dial pattern is in perfect conditions. This watch with its big dimensions and contemporary design, make it the perfect collectable piece for any watch passionate.