It combines the Gérald Genta-derived integrated bracelet design with a full ceramic execution for the first time. To achieve a faithful ceramic translation of the emblematic design, the watch features an innovative multi-part ceramic case construction. The model is also distinguished by a high level of detail in the finishing of its ceramic components with a combination of satin-finishing, sandblasting and polishing. The IWC-manufactured 82110 calibre with a Pellaton winding system, ceramic components and a power reserve of 60 hours is visible through the tinted sapphire glass case back.
Ceramic is extremely hard and resistant to scratches but also lighter than steel and unaffected by temperature changes. These properties make it an ideal material for use in wristwatches. IWC Schaffhausen’s ceramic expertise dates back almost four decades. In 1986, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer introduced the world’s first wristwatch with a black zirconium oxide ceramic case. Following that milestone, IWC’s engineers have continued to innovate in this field and introduced material innovations including silicon nitride, boron carbide, coloured ceramics and, most recently, the first watch cases made with a Ceramic Matrix Composite (CMC).
The Ingenieur Automatic 42 (Ref. IW338903) combines the Gérald Genta-derived integrated bracelet design with a full ceramic execution for the first time. The case ring, bezel and case back ring are all made of black zirconium oxide ceramic. Even add-on parts like the crown protection and the crown are made of this extremely hard and scratch-resistant material. Connecting to the case via its middle links, the integrated black ceramic bracelet offers perfect ergonomics. As ceramic is a particularly light material, the bracelet is highly comfortable to wear. The black dial features the characteristic “Grid” structure consisting of small lines and squares, a hallmark design feature of the IWC Ingenieur. Ensuring excellent legibility, the black hands and metal markers are filled with Super-LumiNova®
Multi-part ceramic case construction
The Ingenieur Automatic 42 represents a true-to- proportion ceramic execution of the emblematic Ingenieur design that is as slim as possible. To achieve this, IWC opted for a pure ceramic case construction with three parts. The case ring, bezel and case back ring are all made of ceramic. As the bezel and the case back ring are secured to the case ring with functional screws, this construction also requires a titanium ring on the inside. The ring accommodates the screws from the front and the back, holds the movement and contributes to a high water resistance of 10 bar. Instead of being held by the titanium ring, the sapphire crystals on the front and the back are pressed directly into the ceramic parts. This innovative new approach makes it possible to achieve a ceramic translation where the case construction remains perfectly faithful to the original stainless steel design. Maintaining the characteristic proportions and intricate angles of the Ingenieur while ensuring structural integrity and waterproofing marks an outstanding design and engineering achievement.
A high-level of detail in the ceramic finish
With a hardness value of about 1300 Vickers, zirconium oxide ceramic ranks among the hardest materials on Earth. After the sintering process, ceramic can only be processed using diamond-tipped tools. For the Ingenieur Automatic 42, IWC has pushed the boundaries in ceramic finishing. The case components are satin- finished and then treated with a smooth sand-blasting, with a delicate polishing around their edges. The bracelet links boast the same elaborate surface treatment with a combination of satin-finishing, sandblasting and polishing. This multi-stage and highly complex finishing results in a refined aesthetic, offering the perfect level of light reflection.
Pellaton winding system with ceramic components
The Ingenieur Automatic 42 is powered by the IWC-manufactured 82110 calibre. Its Pellaton winding system efficiently converts movements of the oscillating mass in both directions to energy for the mainspring, building up a power reserve of 60 hours. Components of the winding system that are subject to high stress are made of virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. The automatic wheel and the clicks are made of black ceramic, while the rotor bearing is made of white ceramic. The balance oscillates at a rate of 4 Hertz, ensuring precise timekeeping. The movement is visible through a tinted sapphire glass case back, complementing the watch’s all-black design.
