IWC - IWC Schaffhausen cal. 852 Automatic - No reserve price - 1430482 - Men - 1950-1959

Available now on auction by Second Vintage Presenting a masterful execution of mid-century horology from Schaffhausen. This classic International Watch Company timepiece embodies the golden era of Swiss watchmaking, combining an impeccably understated aesthetic with robust mechanical innovation. Driven by the legendary Albert Pellaton winding system, this watch represents the perfect marriage of elegant dress watch proportions and serious horological pedigree, making it a truly compelling acquisition for the discerning collector. Brand: IWC Serial Number: 1430482 Movement: Automatic Caliber 852 Dial: Silvered dial with applied faceted indices and pearl minute track, exceptionally clean condition Case Size: 35 mm Case Material: Stainless Steel Production Year: 1950s Condition: Stunning vintage condition with exceptionally preserved dial Dial and Hands The dial of this timepiece is a masterclass in mid-century restraint and elegance. It features a beautifully preserved silvered surface that remains exceptionally clean, showing virtually no spotting, moisture marks, or signs of surface damage. The iconic cursive International Watch Co Schaffhausen script is printed with crisp precision below the twelve o'clock position, complemented by the simple Automatic designation above six o'clock. Applied faceted steel hour markers catch the light beautifully, highlighted by a prominent double baton at twelve o'clock. The perimeter is graced with a classic drilled pearl minute track, adding subtle texture to the expansive dial. The time is indicated by a set of sharp, polished dauphine hands that remain in excellent condition, completely free of luminous material to maintain a pure dress watch aesthetic. Case and Crystal The 35 mm stainless steel case features a smooth polished bezel and elegantly curved lugs that provide a sophisticated presence on the wrist. The case profile retains strong, well-defined lines and honest signs of wear consistent with its vintage age, avoiding any heavy over-polishing. A domed acrylic crystal protects the dial, offering a warm vintage distortion at the extreme edges while remaining clear and free of deep scratches. The watch is fitted with a classic coin-edge crown that complements the case proportions perfectly. The polished snap-on caseback is properly stamped internally with the Probus Scafusia emblem, serial number 1452672, and Staybrite steel hallmarks, securing tightly to the midcase. Movement Inside beats the highly celebrated IWC Caliber 852, a beautifully engineered automatic movement featuring the brand's patented Pellaton winding system. The twenty-one jewel movement is richly decorated with perlage on the base plates and Geneva stripes across the bridges, presenting in remarkably clean visual condition. Close inspection reveals the clear C.852 caliber engraving and the serial number 1430482 alongside the patent application marks. Exhibiting remarkable accuracy and consistency, performing brilliantly for a vintage timepiece. The timegrapher records a deviation of -12 to -15 seconds per day with strong amplitude. Strap The watch is paired with a black leather strap featuring prominent white contrast stitching. The strap is secured with a classic stainless steel pin buckle, providing a comfortable and secure fit while enhancing the monochromatic elegance of the steel and silver dial configuration. Condition This vintage IWC is presented in stunning vintage condition. The dial stands out as exceptionally preserved, maintaining a near-mint appearance that is incredibly rare for a watch of this era. The stainless steel case shows normal, honest wear with light handling marks but retains its structural integrity and handsome proportions. The movement is visually pristine and operating with impressive mechanical health, making this a highly attractive piece for both wear and display. Dimensions The stainless steel case measures 35 mm in diameter, excluding the crown. Remarks Finding a mid-century IWC dress watch with a dial this pristine is a rare occurrence. The combination of the legendary Pellaton automatic movement, the crisp cursive script dial, and the sharp dauphine hands makes this an essential piece for any serious vintage collection. It is a watch that commands respect through its quiet confidence and flawless execution. History The International Watch Company has long been revered for its uncompromising approach to engineering and design. The 1950s marked a particularly important period for the Schaffhausen manufacture, defined by the introduction of Albert Pellaton's ingenious bidirectional automatic winding system. This mechanism, first introduced in the Caliber 81 and perfected in the 85 family of movements, set a new standard for automatic winding efficiency and durability. Watches from this era perfectly encapsulate IWC's philosophy of producing timepieces that are as mechanically robust as they are visually refined, securing their legacy as some of the finest vintage watches ever produced. / Second Vintage SKU: IWC-IIW-0009