IWC Da Vinci Automatic in a 40 mm stainless steel case: a new release at SIHH 2017
At the 2017 edition of watch fair SIHH, IWC puts a whole new line of Da Vinci timepieces on display, heading back to the original round case that had suddenly become tonneau-shaped ten years ago.
While very complicated new timepieces arrive in the line, alluding to the complicated perpetual calendar that made such an important statement back in 1985, quite surprisingly the Swiss brand known for masculine dimensions also puts some emphasis on new female watches in medium-sized 36 mm cases. This is naturally somewhat of a response to the trying times that luxury retail is currently experiencing; attempting to intelligently curry favor with a segment of the population that has not yet been a big consumer may just open new markets.
With a symbolic new flower of life logo engraved on the solid case backs of many of the watches, the new line is dedicated to beauty and grace – even in the men’s styles. Proving the point, these timepieces are secured by beautiful Santoni straps in a variety of fresh colors.
The feminine mid-sized Da Vinci Automatic 36 and Da Vinci Automatic Moon Phase 36 are housed in red gold or stainless steel cases, some with diamonds. Pricing ranges between $5,500 and $16,400.
The pared-down 40 mm Da Vinci Automatic and 43 mm Da Vinci Chronograph for men in stainless steel range in price from $5,500 (steel/strap automatic), $6,500 (steel/bracelet automatic) to $12,700 for the chronograph on a Santoni strap.
The haute horlogerie Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Chronograph comes in red gold ($40,200) and stainless steel ($29,900), while the 44 mm Da Vinci Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph is only available in red gold on a luscious brown Santoni strap ($103,000).
Elizabeth Doerr is the editor-in-chief of Quill & Pad, an online publication that keeps a watch on time.
