IWC - "Petite Époque" - No reserve price - 2118 - Women - 1950-1959

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This exquisite mid-century timepiece from the International Watch Company represents the pinnacle of vintage ladies' horology. Blending the precision of fine Swiss watchmaking with the delicate proportions of a piece of fine jewelry, this elegant square-cased IWC is a captivating statement on the wrist. Whether acquired as a sophisticated addition to a personal collection or as a deeply thoughtful gift for a loved one, its timeless stainless steel architecture and fluid mesh bracelet offer a versatile, classic aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from daytime elegance to evening wear. Brand: IWC Reference Number: 2118 Serial Number: 1322329 Movement: IWC manual winding Dial: Silvered with applied baton indices, exhibiting honest vintage patina and light spotting Case Size: 19 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1950s Condition: Good vintage condition with beautifully aged character Dial and Hands The dial features a classic silvered finish that catches the light beautifully, accented by slender, applied silver-tone baton indices with a prominent double baton positioned at the twelve o'clock marker. The crisp black serif typography of the International Watch Co signature remains clearly legible. Elegant dauphine-style hands sweep across the surface, completing the minimalist and refined aesthetic. Close visual inspection reveals an even, age-consistent patina across the dial face, characterized by light speckling and minor surface spotting. This gentle aging does not detract from the watch's inherent beauty but rather authenticates its mid-century origins, offering a charming, romantic glimpse into its long history. Case and Crystal The petite 19 millimeter square case is crafted from robust stainless steel, featuring a beautifully polished fixed bezel that frames the dial with understated grace. The straight, angular lugs provide a crisp geometric contrast to the fluid bracelet. The case flanks and caseback display a brushed finish, with the inner caseback proudly bearing the Probus Scafusia hallmark alongside the reference and serial numbers. The flat crystal sits flush with the bezel, protecting the dial while maintaining a sleek, low-profile silhouette on the wrist. Light handling marks and superficial scratches are visible upon close inspection, perfectly consistent with a cherished vintage timepiece of this era. Movement Inside this elegant case beats a beautifully finished IWC manual winding caliber, a testament to the brand's commitment to mechanical excellence even in their smallest ladies' models. The brightly finished bridges are decorated with classic linear brushing and feature bright ruby jewels set within finely executed countersinks. The crisp engravings of the maker's mark are clearly visible on the movement plates. Running in vintage operational condition. Maintains the authentic mechanical character of the era. (+40 to +44 s/d). Strap The watch is fitted with a period-correct fine stainless steel mesh bracelet that drapes across the wrist with the fluidity of a precious fabric. This jewelry-style bracelet enhances the overall elegance of the timepiece, securing with a classic fold-over clasp mechanism. It accommodates a wrist size of up to 17 centimeters, offering a comfortable and secure fit for daily wear. Condition Assessed as being in good vintage condition, this IWC presents beautifully as a piece of wearable history. The case retains its structural integrity and geometric charm, showing only normal signs of vintage wear. The dial's patina is honest and natural, with visible speckling that adds a unique character to the watch. The mechanical components remain clean and well-preserved, making this a highly attractive prospect for those who appreciate the gentle aging of a true vintage artifact. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures a delicate 19 millimeters across, excluding the original winding crown. The watch is designed to wear with the subtle presence of a fine bracelet, sitting gracefully on the wrist. Remarks This elegant timepiece represents a wonderful opportunity to acquire a classic mid-century IWC designed specifically for the feminine wrist. Its blend of enduring stainless steel construction, mechanical purity, and jewelry-like execution makes it an exceptional choice for a discerning woman or a gentleman seeking a profoundly memorable gift. History The International Watch Company, founded in Schaffhausen, has long been celebrated for its uncompromising approach to engineering and design. During the mid-twentieth century, IWC translated their mastery of robust, precise calibers into scaled-down, highly elegant formats for women. These timepieces were not merely scaled-down men's watches, but purpose-built creations that harmonized the art of fine jewelry with the science of traditional Swiss watchmaking, leaving a legacy of timeless beauty that remains highly sought after today. / Second Vintage SKU: IWC-IIW-0001