IWC - Schaffhausen - 810 A - Men - 1962

Presented for auction by Second Vintage This classic mid-century timepiece from the International Watch Company perfectly encapsulates the understated elegance and mechanical superiority that defined IWC during the 1960s. Powered by the legendary Pellaton winding system, this watch represents a high-water mark in robust, beautifully engineered automatic calibers. With its characterful patinated dial and distinctive case architecture, it offers collectors a chance to own a piece of true horological heritage, combining everyday wearability with undeniable vintage charm. Brand: IWC Schaffhausen Reference Number: 810 A Serial Number: 1879300 (Case), 1857750 (Movement) Movement: Automatic Caliber 854 Dial: Silver sunburst dial with applied indices, showing visible spotting and age-consistent patina Case Size: 34 mm (excluding the crown) Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1962 Condition: Good vintage condition with honest wear and attractive aging Dial and Hands The silver sunburst dial features applied, faceted baton indices with striking black central inserts, complemented by matching baton hands. The dial displays an elegant combination of elegant script and sans-serif typography. Upon close visual inspection, the dial surface exhibits a distinct, even spread of fine spotting, speckling, and moisture marks, presenting a characterful and heavy age-consistent patina. The printed text remains fully intact and legible, while the hands show honest signs of surface oxidation and wear, aligning perfectly with the overall vintage aesthetic of the timepiece. Case and Crystal The 34mm stainless steel case is characterized by its sharp, faceted inner lugs that create a beautiful transition between the polished bezel and the brushed and polished case flanks. The case displays normal, honest signs of wear, with surface scratches and handling marks visible throughout, consistent with decades of regular use. The screw-down caseback clearly bears the reference and serial numbers. The watch retains its original, deeply engraved IWC fish crown, an important detail for collectors. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, showing minor signs of wear but remaining largely clear. Movement Inside beats the highly esteemed IWC Caliber 854, an automatic movement featuring the brand's legendary and highly efficient Pellaton winding system. The movement is beautifully finished with perlage and circular graining on the plates and rotor, clearly displaying the C.854 caliber stamp and the 1857750 serial number. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher indicates a deviation of -6 to -10 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is fitted with a highly attractive, period-correct stainless steel beads-of-rice bracelet. The supple, multi-link design provides excellent drape and comfort on the wrist, securing with a classic folding clasp that shows standard signs of desk-diving wear. Condition This timepiece is presented in good vintage condition. The case remains structurally sound with well-defined lugs, while showing expected surface scratches. The dial possesses a heavy, even patina with noticeable spotting that adds unique character. The movement is exceptionally clean and performs strongly. Dimensions The case measures 34 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. The included bracelet will accommodate a wrist size of up to 18 cm. Remarks This IWC 810 A is a superb example of mid-century Swiss watchmaking, offering a highly reliable in-house movement within a beautifully proportioned case. The distinct patina on the dial ensures that this specific watch is entirely unique, appealing to collectors who appreciate the honest aging process of vintage timepieces. History Founded in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones, the International Watch Company established itself in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, blending American production techniques with Swiss craftsmanship. By the mid-20th century, under the technical direction of Albert Pellaton, IWC developed some of the most robust and efficient automatic movements ever created. The Pellaton winding system, introduced in the 1950s and refined in the Caliber 854, remains a hallmark of IWC's engineering prowess, celebrated for its shock resistance and exceptional winding efficiency. / Second Vintage SKU: IWC-IIW-0004