IWC Watches Guide
A Guide to the IWC Schaffhausen Brand
When it comes to luxury timepieces, one name stands out: IWC Schaffhausen. This renowned Swiss watchmaker has a rich history and a range of iconic collections that have captured the hearts of watch enthusiasts worldwide.
IWC Schaffhausen History
IWC Schaffhausen, also known as the International Watch Company, boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones.
Situated in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, the company combined Swiss craftsmanship with American engineering, setting it apart from its contemporaries. Notable milestones include pioneering the digital display in pocket watches, introducing the Special Pilot's Watch in 1936, and developing the innovative Pellaton winding system in 1950.
Situated in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, the company combined Swiss craftsmanship with American engineering, setting it apart from its contemporaries. Notable milestones include pioneering the digital display in pocket watches, introducing the Special Pilot's Watch in 1936, and developing the innovative Pellaton winding system in 1950.
IWC's commitment to precision and innovation is further exemplified in the Ingenieur collection, designed for professionals working in magnetic fields, and the introduction of the Da Vinci collection in 1985, known for innovative case design and complications. Throughout its history, IWC has continued to create iconic timepieces, blending technical advancements with timeless style.
IWC Schaffhausen Collection
Every timepiece within the IWC Schaffhausen collections, encompassing the Pilot's Watches, Portugieser, and Portofino, possesses a storied heritage. Here, we'll explore some of the collections offered at Orr's Jewelers. Check it out:
Pilot’s Watches
One of IWC's most iconic collections is its Pilot's Watches. These timepieces have a storied history, dating back to the 1930s when the brand began producing aviation watches. The Pilot's Watches are characterized by their large, easy-to-read dials and robust, durable designs. They are not just timepieces; they are instruments for aviators and adventurers.
The Pilot's Watch collection includes models like the Big Pilot, Top Gun, and the classic Mark series. These watches are not only functional, but also exude a rugged elegance that appeals to watch enthusiasts and aviation aficionados alike.
The Big Pilot's Watch is a true icon, known for its oversized case, distinctive onion-shaped crown, and highly legible dial. It has become a symbol of IWC's commitment to precision and innovation.
The Top Gun collection pays homage to the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, also known as Top Gun. These watches combine advanced materials like ceramic with IWC's watchmaking expertise, resulting in timepieces that can withstand the harshest conditions.
The Mark series, on the other hand, reflects the brand's historical ties to aviation. The Mark 11, introduced in 1948, became the standard navigation watch for the Royal Air Force. Today, the Mark XVIII continues this legacy with its simple yet effective design.
One of IWC's most iconic collections is its Pilot's Watches. These timepieces have a storied history, dating back to the 1930s when the brand began producing aviation watches. The Pilot's Watches are characterized by their large, easy-to-read dials and robust, durable designs. They are not just timepieces; they are instruments for aviators and adventurers.
The Pilot's Watch collection includes models like the Big Pilot, Top Gun, and the classic Mark series. These watches are not only functional, but also exude a rugged elegance that appeals to watch enthusiasts and aviation aficionados alike.
The Big Pilot's Watch is a true icon, known for its oversized case, distinctive onion-shaped crown, and highly legible dial. It has become a symbol of IWC's commitment to precision and innovation.
The Top Gun collection pays homage to the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School, also known as Top Gun. These watches combine advanced materials like ceramic with IWC's watchmaking expertise, resulting in timepieces that can withstand the harshest conditions.
The Mark series, on the other hand, reflects the brand's historical ties to aviation. The Mark 11, introduced in 1948, became the standard navigation watch for the Royal Air Force. Today, the Mark XVIII continues this legacy with its simple yet effective design.
Portugieser
The Portugieser collection from IWC Schaffhausen is a tribute to the brand's maritime heritage. Inspired by the seafaring pioneers of Portugal, these watches are known for their clean, minimalist designs and precision timekeeping.
The Portugieser collection features both dress watches and complications. Whether you're looking for a classic time-only watch or a sophisticated perpetual calendar, the Portugieser has a watch for every taste.
One standout watch in this collection is the Portugieser Chronograph. With its elegant, balanced dial and the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, it's a favorite among those who appreciate both style and substance in their timepieces.
The Portugieser collection from IWC Schaffhausen is a tribute to the brand's maritime heritage. Inspired by the seafaring pioneers of Portugal, these watches are known for their clean, minimalist designs and precision timekeeping.
The Portugieser collection features both dress watches and complications. Whether you're looking for a classic time-only watch or a sophisticated perpetual calendar, the Portugieser has a watch for every taste.
One standout watch in this collection is the Portugieser Chronograph. With its elegant, balanced dial and the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, it's a favorite among those who appreciate both style and substance in their timepieces.
Portofino
For those who appreciate timeless elegance and understated luxury, the Portofino collection is a perfect choice. Named after the picturesque Italian fishing village, these watches embody the charm and sophistication of the Italian Riviera.
Portofino watches are known for their simplicity and classic design. They are ideal for formal occasions or as everyday accessories, blending seamlessly with a variety of outfits. One of the notable watches in this collection is the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days, which boasts a remarkable 8-day power reserve.
For those who appreciate timeless elegance and understated luxury, the Portofino collection is a perfect choice. Named after the picturesque Italian fishing village, these watches embody the charm and sophistication of the Italian Riviera.
Portofino watches are known for their simplicity and classic design. They are ideal for formal occasions or as everyday accessories, blending seamlessly with a variety of outfits. One of the notable watches in this collection is the Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days, which boasts a remarkable 8-day power reserve.
Discover the amazing IWC Schaffhausen collection in Pittsburgh and Sewickley, PA.
Orr’s Jewelers is a renowned family-owned business that has been on the market since 1952. We are in our third generation of ownership, and our commitment is still the same. We are very proud of our welcoming and friendly atmosphere, which we strive to make feel like home.
We understand that choosing watches and jewelry is a hard decision, so here, we take your time and comfort very seriously. We want you to make the best decision, so we make sure that each piece comes from the best designers in the industry. They were handpicked to bring our customers the highest quality possible.
We like to say that, “We Rock.” Orr’s has been chosen as the official jeweler of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Rolex. Not to mention, we are the premier destination for fine jewelry and Swiss timepieces in Western Pennsylvania. That’s how committed we are to offering you the best.
We understand that choosing watches and jewelry is a hard decision, so here, we take your time and comfort very seriously. We want you to make the best decision, so we make sure that each piece comes from the best designers in the industry. They were handpicked to bring our customers the highest quality possible.
We like to say that, “We Rock.” Orr’s has been chosen as the official jeweler of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Rolex. Not to mention, we are the premier destination for fine jewelry and Swiss timepieces in Western Pennsylvania. That’s how committed we are to offering you the best.
