IWC Oversized Jumbo Dress Watch 18K Yellow Gold Cal 89 from 1950s

IWC Oversize Caliber 89 – 18K Yellow Gold (Circa 1950s)

The IWC Oversize Caliber 89 in solid 18K yellow gold stands as a masterclass in restrained mid-century elegance combined with horological excellence. With its impressive 37.2 mm diameter, this timepiece embodies the rare intersection of size, refinement, and mechanical perfection that defined IWC’s golden era.

The Case – Bold Proportions, Refined Presence

Crafted entirely from 18K yellow gold, the case is a study in proportion and grace. The oversized 37.2 mm diameter—exceptionally large for its time—gives this dress watch a commanding yet elegant wrist presence. Its sculpted lugs add a touch of flourish, introducing gentle curvature and architectural finesse. The case retains sharp lines and crisp hallmarks, testifying to its careful preservation over the decades.

Despite its size, the watch wears with remarkable balance—substantial but never ostentatious. Its polished surfaces catch light beautifully, accentuating the warmth and purity of the gold.

The Dial – Silver Perfection and Vintage Purity

Beneath the domed crystal lies the original silver IWC dial, remarkably well-preserved and radiating quiet sophistication. The minimal layout—slender gold baton markers and dauphine hands—embodies IWC’s design ethos of purity and legibility. The applied “International Watch Co. Schaffhausen” signature remains crisp, authentic, and evenly printed.

There are no distractions—no date, no complications—just time rendered with poetic simplicity. It’s this austerity that allows the dial’s condition and symmetry to shine through.

The Movement – The Legendary IWC Caliber 89

Powering this classic is the storied IWC Caliber 89, a manually wound movement celebrated among collectors for its precision, durability, and engineering beauty. Designed under the guidance of Albert Pellaton, the Cal. 89 represents IWC’s post-war mechanical ideal: robust, elegantly finished, and reliable to chronometer standards.

This example runs strongly and keeps time well, demonstrating the lasting integrity of IWC’s craftsmanship. The movement’s architecture and finishing reflect the brand’s deep commitment to functional excellence.

The Details – Originality and Rarity

The watch retains its original unsigned IWC crown, an authentic touch that adds to its collector appeal. Very few examples of the oversized Cal. 89 survive in such superb condition, particularly with the distinctive fancy-lugged 18K gold case. Its size, at 37.2 mm, elevates it from a traditional dress watch to a statement of mid-century design progress.

The Strap – Belgian Craftsmanship

It is paired with a brand-new, hand-made leather strap crafted in Belgium. The supple crocodile leather complements the warmth of the gold perfectly. (Please note: for sales outside the EU, the original crocodile strap will be removed due to export regulations.)

Key Details

• Model: IWC Oversize Dress Watch

• Reference: Unspecified (Cal. 89 variant)

• Movement: IWC Caliber 89, Manual Wind

• Case Material: Solid 18K Yellow Gold

• Case Size: 37.2 mm

• Dial: Original Silver Dial, Signed IWC

• Crown: Original Unsigned IWC Crown

• Strap: Handmade Leather, Belgium (Crocodile)

• Era: Circa 1950s

• Condition: Excellent overall – clean dial, crisp case, well-running movement

Why This Watch?

Among post-war dress watches, few embody the balance of elegance and power quite like this oversized IWC Cal. 89. Its extraordinary case size, refined design, and legendary movement make it one of the most desirable classic IWCs ever produced.

To wear it is to experience the best of Schaffhausen’s mid-century watchmaking—precision engineering wrapped in pure, golden minimalism. A rare opportunity for the discerning collector to own one of IWC’s true masterpieces of form and function.