Our remarks

IWC Men's Watch, Reference 1818, Stainless Steel, Manual Wind, Caliber 89, Black Dial, Year 1970

This IWC from 1970 belongs to the kind of watch you might overlook at first glance, but appreciate immediately once you know what is inside. The reference 1818 with caliber 89 turns up far less often today than other IWC classics from the same era, especially in this clean, understated version with a black dial.

The case is made of stainless steel and carries exactly the restraint you would expect from a men's watch of this period. No chrome, no gold, just a material that stays robust and develops an honest patina over the years.

The black dial gives the watch a calm, clear look that still holds up today. It is this combination of steel and a dark dial that defines the character of this reference, understated and with real substance.

Inside sits caliber 89, one of the most respected manual winding movements IWC ever built. It was originally developed for the legendary Mark XI, which IWC produced for the Royal Air Force from the late 1940s onward. Caliber 89 was technically remarkable at the time, robust, precise and fitted with central seconds. That same movement is found in this reference 1818 and is still the reason collectors hold this caliber in such high regard.

The watch is in very good condition. Just received a fresh service from our watch-lab, so it can be worn right away.

This Ref 1818 includes:

- Stainless steel case

- Original matt black dial

- IWC cal. 89

- A fresh in-house service

"An understated, honest watch for anyone who would rather wear a piece of IWC history than just read about it."