Read our expert's description
Brand :
IWC
Collection :
Pilot’s Watches
Model :
Pilot's Watches Mark Ix
Category :
Wrist Watch
Period :
1930's
Watch ID :
MODEL NAME MARK IX MATERIAL
Movement :
Mechanical
Caliber :
T
Case material :
Steel
Dial color :
Black
Clasp type :
Folding clasp
Description :
Manufacturer: IWC;Year: Circa 1936;Movement No: 941'505;Case No: 974'859 inner case back stamped with same number;Model Name: Mark IX;Material: Stainless steel;Calibre: Manual, cal. 83, 16 jewels;Bracelet/Strap: Leather;Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel pin buckle signed IWC;Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter;Signed: Dial, movement and buckle signed;Catalogue Essay;Certain model names have been engraved in the Hall of Fame of horological icons: Calatrava, Royal Oak, Reverso or Speedmaster to name a few. Amongst this elite group proudly stands the IWC Mark series.;The Mark IX is undisputedly one of IWC’s more mythical and elusive watches. A certain mystery surrounds its creation and it is rarely, if ever, seen on the international auction market.;Even though the Mark IX is the originator of the fabled Mark series of military watches, it was not a military watch per se. Made in 1936, its large steel case, black dial, large radium numerals spade style hands and inner rotating bezel used to measure elapsed time give it an obvious aviation style despite it being a commercial watch. It furthermore houses a beautifully hand decorated cal. 83.;In an ad from the late 1930s IWC refered to this watch as the "Spezialuhr für Fliege" - Pilot's Watch and further indicated that the watch could withstand tough conditions, was tested from minus 40°C to plus 40°C and was antimagnetic. A pioneer of what we call aviator watches today, the Mark IX interestingly only got its moniker once the Mark X was commissioned by the British MoD (Ministry of Defense).;The present lot in overall wonderful condition is one of those rare timepieces whose discovery increases the pulse so charged it is with history and legend.
