IWC Il Destriero Scafusia 1868

Very Fine and Exceptional, Limited Edition Number 85/125, Destriero Scafusia, Minute Repeating, Tourbillon, Perpetual Calendar, Moon-Phase, Split-second Chronograph Wristwatch in Platinum, With Certificate of Archives, Reference 1868

Model: Il Destriero Scafusia Reference: 1868 Case Material: Platinum Bracelet Material: Platinum Year: 1994 Movement: Manual Caliber: 1868 Case N°: N°85/125, 2537080 Movement N°: 2500070 Dimensions: 42 mm Signed: Dial, Movement and Case Accessories: Extract from the Archives and Additional links Throughout the rich history of horology, certain timepieces stand out not only for their technical brilliance but also for their distinctiveness in design. Among the brands that have consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation, IWC (International Watch Company) holds a special place. Their creation, “Il Destriero Scafusia,” exemplifies the brand’s commitment to both technical mastery and artistic elegance. Released in 1993 to commemorate IWC’s 125th anniversary, “Il Destriero Scafusia” (translating to “The Warhorse from Schaffhausen”) is a testament to the brand’s ingenuity and craftsmanship. Limited to a mere 125 pieces across yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum, this extraordinary timepiece was the pinnacle of watchmaking at the time. The final piece was completed at precisely 11:59:59 P.M. on December 31, 1999, marking the end of an era. At the heart of this masterpiece lies the Caliber 1868, a marvel of engineering composed of over 750 meticulously crafted and hand-finished components. These parts work in perfect harmony to drive the watch’s 22 intricate complications, making it one of the most complex wristwatches ever created. Among its many features is a secular perpetual calendar with a four-digit year display—an IWC exclusive—and a patented minute-repeater slide mechanism designed to protect the movement from moisture and dust. One of the most remarkable aspects of “Il Destriero Scafusia” is its tourbillon mechanism. Comprising nearly 100 minuscule parts and weighing a mere 0.296 grams, this tourbillon is a feat of precision. The use of non-magnetic, lightweight titanium for the cage ensures unparalleled accuracy, setting a new standard in watchmaking. “Il Destriero Scafusia” is a landmark in the history of horology. Among the first ultra-complicated wristwatches to feature a minute repeater, moon phase indicator, square button split-seconds chronograph, secular perpetual calendar, and a flying one-minute tourbillon regulator, this timepiece is a true masterpiece. The present lot in platinum, numbered 85 out of the 125 produced, is an extraordinary example of this iconic model, making it a coveted piece for collectors and connoisseurs alike.