IWC Ingénieur, ref. 3508, circa 1990
The IWC Ingénieur, reference 3508, is a splendid watch that originated in a crazy project by the brand, making it a superb collector's item that is still too underrated. In fact, it is one of the most antimagnetic timepieces ever made. Despite being one of the most technical models in the Ingenieur series, it remains largely unknown today.
01
/ Brand
IWC
02
/ Year
Circa 1990
03
/ Serial
2438xxx
04
/ Reference
3508
05
/ Material
Steel and gold
06
/ Size
34 mm
about the watch
The IWC Ingénieur, referenced 3508, was one of the most technically advanced timepieces at the time, and was produced between 1989 and 1992. It is a remarkable achievement, being the first wristwatch to exceed the resistance mark of 500,000 A/m. Built with a 34 mm steel case, it incorporates a soft iron Faraday cage and a pioneering beryllium/niobium balance spring. To give a point of comparison, the Rolex Milgauss, renowned for its resistance to 1,000 Gauss, does not reach 80,000 A/m. The development of the 3508 was a very costly venture for IWC, resulting in financial losses for each unit sold. The 3508 was produced for just under four years, with an estimated total of around 1,500 pieces. This timepiece is sold with its original box, and has remained in superb condition. The case, with its yellow gold bezel and integrated bracelet, is magnificent and reminiscent of the designs of those eras. The size of 34mm makes it a very comfortable piece to wear on a daily basis. This timepiece clearly reminds us of the work of its designer, Gérald Genta, and shows once again that it is possible to combine technological and technical development with aesthetics. This timepiece is a real jewel of history and style, making it highly collectible.
