The famous Schaffhausen watchmaker has entered the world of ocean racing. Its latest chronograph is the result of an official partnership with the Volvo Ocean Race series 2011-2012.
It’s also a title sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Sailing Team, but IWC CEO Georges Kern is at pains to stress that a policy of strict impartiality will ensure no possible conflict of interest.
In creating the new watch, the designers have incorporated two materials now commonplace in these high-tech wonders of the waves: titanium (for the case) and carbonfibre (the dial). Inside this space-age confection lies an in-house calibre 89361 movement which can be seen through the sapphire crystal clear back. With a heavy rotor supplying power in either direction, the watch has a 68-hour power reserve and its chronograph function mixes tradition with modernity.
At 12 o’clock you will see a small, sub-dial ‘regatta countdown timer’, an invaluable aid for the serious ocean racer.
Text: Classic Driver
Photos: IWC