Stay up to date on all IWC Schaffhausen news and events. Check back for latest campaigns, product launches, special events, partnership news and more.
June 25, 2021
The Apprentice: When Gen Z Meets The 70s
IWC apprentice Philipp Schlatter will be presenting his graduation watch in public for the very first time: a truly unique and one-time edition timepiece - designed, manufactured, and assembled - all by himself. In addition, using the IWC Cyberloupe: Philipp will give us a rare glimpse inside the first IWC he purchased; a vintage Ingenieur Ref. 666.
The upcoming Cyberloupe live event will be broadcasted via Linkedin Live on June 30, 2021.
June 15, 2021
IWC AND AIRSPEEDER ANNOUNCE ENGINEERING AND TIMEKEEPING PARTNERSHIP
IWC Schaffhausen joins forces with Airspeeder, the world’s first electric flying car racing series, in a new engineering and timekeeping partnership. Combining the passion both companies share for technological progress, human endeavour and sustainability, they will work together in pioneering this new form of motorsport to fast track a new era of clean-air mobility.
From its technical base in South Australia, the Airspeeder project has brought together some of the brightest minds in aviation, motor racing and performance automotive engineering from across the world. Charged with envisioning a better future, the diverse team of engineers, specialists and pilots are encouraged to think innovatively to push the boundaries of technical excellence, a philosophy which IWC also shares.
Read more here.
June 3, 2021
IWC UNVEILS BIG PILOT’S WATCH CAMPAIGN STARRING BRAND AMBASSADOR LEWIS HAMILTON
Following the launch of its new Pilot’s Watch collection in April, IWC Schaffhausen kicks off a global advertising campaign focusing on the Big Pilot’s Watch. The campaign features seven-time FIA Formula One™ World Drivers’ Champion Lewis Hamilton, who has been an IWC brand ambassador since 2013. The campaign message centres on Hamilton’s evolution from a ‘driver of the fastest cars’ to a ‘driver of change’, as he increasingly uses his talent and influence to raise awareness of social injustice and create opportunities for those from diverse backgrounds. The stunning imagery was shot by British photographer Misan Harriman, who also joins the global IWC family as a new brand ambassador.
Born in Nigeria, Harriman was raised in the UK and recently made history by becoming the first black person in the 104-years of British Vogue to shoot the cover of the magazine’s September issue. Entirely self-taught, he has documented many recent defining moments in history and is known for his unique narrative and reportage style.
Read more here.
May 21, 2021
IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN AND LONG-STANDING PARTNER MERCEDES-AMG LAUNCH A PERFORMANCE ENGINEERING INSPIRED CHRONOGRAPH
IWC Schaffhausen and Mercedes-AMG have launched the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “AMG”. This timepiece is the latest product to celebrate the partnership that has linked the Swiss luxury watchmaker and the German car manufacturer since 2004. The first IWC Pilot’s Watch Chronograph in titanium is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69385 calibre movement and features a carbon fibre dial.
The Pilot’s Watch Chronograph Edition “AMG” was unveiled at a webcast hosted by Philipp Schiemer and Christoph Grainger-Herr. Both elaborated on their passion for racing, the values both brands share, and the sustainable future of watchmaking and mobility. They were joined by Maro Engel, who brought in the perspective of a professional racing driver. The IWC brand ambassador is also a Mercedes-AMG factory driver and has an in-depth knowledge of both companies. The webcast can be watched via https://watches.iwc.com/amgwebcast.
May 3, 2021
MR PORTER CELEBRATES ITS 10th ANNIVERSARY AND LAUNCHES EXCLUSIVE LIMITED EDITION PILOT’S WATCH CHRONOGRAPH WITH IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN
To mark MR PORTER’s first decade as the leading, global destination for men’s style, MR PORTER has partnered with IWC Schaffhausen to launch the “10 Years of MR PORTER” Limited Edition Pilot’s Chronograph. This special collaboration is the first time both brands have developed an exclusive timepiece together – the watch is limited to only 110 pieces and is available exclusively on MR PORTER from Monday 3 May in celebration of the 2021 anniversary year.
Sporting a totally unique colour scheme and pairing a bronze case with a black dial and soft Alcantara strap, the military-inspired features give a more casual and sartorial feel. The watch is engraved with “MR PORTER 10 Yrs Limited Edition” on the individually numbered titanium case-back.
Learn more here.
April 29, 2021
THE ART OF TIMING BY PAUL RIPKE
IWC Schaffhausen pretty much kicked off my photography career in 2009 with my first real photo production, shooting the Portugieser Line in the Mediterranean on a crazy big sailboat, the Moonbird. After that we always bumped into each other multiple times throughout my career if it is in Soccer or especially the last 4 years in Formula1 where I was the team photographer of the Mercedes AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. When IWC Schaffhausen contacted me and asked if I could tell my story in the IWC-Surrounding, I was super stoked and deeply honored. Writing the concept for this portrait I realized the biggest driver of my career was by far timing.
April 7, 2021
New Pilot’s Watches Collection 2021
For 85 years, IWC has been engineering Pilot’s Watches tailored to meet the functional requirements and specific needs of professional pilots. Initially conceived as precise and reliable tools for navigation, they are celebrated nowadays for their iconic cockpit instrument design, their extreme robustness and high versatility.
Now, IWC is adding a new chapter to this success story: The Big Pilot’s Watch 43 (Ref. IW3293). An authentic interpretation of the iconic design, without either a date window or a power reserve display, it features a 43-millimetre stainless steel case for enhanced ergonomics and wear ability.
“The Big Pilot’s Watch perfectly embodies IWC’s extensive heritage and expertise in engineering rugged and reliable instruments tailored to meet the needs of elite aviators. It exemplifies how a purely functional design can transform into a cultural icon. Today, the Big Pilot’s Watch is not only one of the most recognised watch designs in the world but also an expression of a certain character and mindset,” explains Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen.
The Big Pilot’s Watch Shock Absorber XPL (Ref. IW357201) is the first IWC watch to feature the patented SPRIN-g PROTECT system. At the heart of this system is a cantilever spring that protects the movement against the g-forces generated by impacts. It cushions the movement, allowing it to keep moving independently of the case before bringing it to a stop more gently. The spring has been designed with a perfect form to evenly spread the stress across its length and width. Solving this challenge required advanced simulation tools and a painstaking design process. A key factor is also the choice of an advanced Bulk Metallic Glass (BMG) as a material. The sophisticated manufacturing process gives BMG an amorphous microstructure, with the result that it is significantly more elastic than conventional metals. An ultra-lightweight titanium casing ring further reduces the mass that the shock absorber must hold. Another innovation is a unique crown system with a winding stem that allows the movement to displace independently of the case.
In addition IWC is launching: the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph 41 in a new case diameter of 41mm, two “Mojave Desert” Big Pilot’s Watches in sand coloured ceramic, and a new Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar.
Discover the entire new collection here.
March 11th, 2021
IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN LAUNCHES NEW TIMBERTEX PAPER-BASED WATCH STRAPS
IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled new TimberTex straps, made from a low impact paper-based material. This pioneering creation is the result of in-depth research and development and reflects IWC’s ongoing commitment to innovation and responsible watchmaking.
IWC has long led the luxury watch sector in the development of cutting-edge materials and is now proud to introduce new watch straps made primarily of paper from responsible sources. Conscious of the importance of offering alternatives to its responsibly sourced leather, the Swiss brand already provides bracelets in steel, textile and rubber. Today, the Manufacture is broadening this existing collection further with the addition of TimberTex straps. By focusing on the production process and lifecycle, IWC has ensured reduced environmental and social impacts from start to finish, while providing customers with another high-quality and stylish choice.
Luxurious in look and feel, the TimberTex straps have a soft and supple texture. Unlike synthetic leathers, which are often plastic or petroleum-based, the material is composed of 80% natural plant fibres. The cellulose used comes from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified trees grown in the non-profit organisation’s sustainably and responsibly managed European forests. It is then manufactured in Italy, using traditional papermaking techniques and coloured with natural plant-based dyes. The material’s irregular grain makes every strap unique.
The TimberTex straps currently complement four models: the Portugieser Chronograph, Portugieser Automatic 40, Portofino Automatic and Portofino Chronograph. They are available in blue, brown and black.
January 11th, 2021
IWC Cyberloupe: a peek into the future of watchmaking
The magic of watchmaking reveals itself in the smallest details. Even the most basic mechanical movement from IWC Schaffhausen consists of almost 200 parts, all of which have to fit into a tiny space. If you add complications like a chronograph, a perpetual calendar or a Tourbillon (French for whirlwind, a device which insures the accuracy of mechanical watch movements), the number of components like wheels, levers, springs and cams rises quickly. Until now, the inner workings of a mechanical movement or Haute Horlogerie complications were a secret for most watch lovers; a view reserved for trained watchmakers, who sit at their benches for hours in complete silence while peering through their magnifying glasses.
Enter the Cyberloupe, the first-ever digitalised watchmaker’s magnifying glass. Based on a traditional watchmaker’s loupe, this innovative new digital tool features a high-resolution camera and a network connection. It allows the image as seen by the watchmaker to be captured and then live-streamed to any device anywhere, or recorded and saved for future use. Developed by a team led by IWC’s Head of Operations Antonio Palmisano, it premiered at Watches & Wonders 2020 Shanghai.
IWC uses the Cyberloupe to share its passion for engineering and innovation and to bring the world of fine watchmaking closer to enthusiasts all around the world. The upcoming Cyberloupe live event will be broadcasted via Linkedin Live (in English) on January 21, 3:00 pm CET and focus on other exciting topics from the world of IWC watches.
December 14th, 2020
IWC CONGRATULATES THE MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS FORMULA ONE TEAM AND LEWIS HAMILTON AS THEY MAKE TITLE HISTORY
IWC Schaffhausen is proud to congratulate its long-standing partner, the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Formula One team and brand ambassadors Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas on their historic title successes this Formula One™ season.
The Mercedes team have won their seventh FIA Formula One™ Constructors’ World Championship. By doing so, they have become the first team in the history of Formula One™ racing to score seven straight title doubles: an extraordinary achievement for a team which was only re-established a decade ago as the first Mercedes works squad since 1955.
Lewis Hamilton has won his seventh FIA Formula One™ Drivers’ World Championship to become only the second driver in the history of the sport to claim seven driver titles. In honour of this momentous achievement, IWC Schaffhausen would like to congratulate Lewis Hamilton with the help of some familiar faces. Watch the video below to see some special messages from Chris Grainger Herr, Toto Wolff, David Coulthard, Billy Monger, Maro Engel, Bernd Schneider and Laura Kraihamer. Congratulations Lewis from the entire IWC Racing family!
November 10th, 2020
IWC Holiday Gift Guides
Sophisticated complications, timeless classics or robust sports watches: browse our curated selection of timepieces for men and discover the perfect IWC for the gentleman with discerning taste.
Poetic moon-phase watches, timeless classics or a subtle blend of elegance and sportiness: browse our selection of women’s watches and discover the perfect IWC for the lady with sophisticated taste.
Fashionable cufflinks in the shape of the conical crown of the Big Pilot’s Watch, a practical watch pouch for keeping your timepiece, or a beautiful strap to update the look of your timepiece: present your loved ones with a stylish or functional accessory from IWC.
Browse our selection of men’s watches here, women’s watches here, and our featured accessories here.
October 15th, 2020
IWC PRESENTS PILOT’S WATCH CHRONOGRAPH TOP GUN EDITION “SFTI” IN BLACK CERAMIC AND CERATANIUM®
IWC Schaffhausen complements its TOP GUN range of Pilot’s Watches with the Pilot’s Watch Chronograph TOP GUN Edition “SFTI”. The new model takes inspiration from the “Strike Fighter Tactics Instructor” watch, which was created in 2018 in honor of the US Naval Aviation Community and is available only for TOPGUN graduates. Thanks to the combination of a black ceramic case with a Ceratanium® case back and pushers, the sporty chronograph boasts a tactical, matte black design code.
Ticking away inside the sturdy case is the IWC-manufactured 69380 calibre. The robust chronograph movement in classic column-wheel design ensures precise timekeeping and the measurement of stopwatch times of up to 12 hours. Another function is a date and weekday display. The sporty timepiece is fitted with a green textile strap.
September 9, 2020
Touch and feel with new Portugieser collection in Shanghai
Schaffhausen / Shanghai – At the Shanghai debut of Watches & Wonders, IWC Schaffhausen marked a strong presence. In a booth inspired by the worlds of sailing and yachting, visitors could discover the new IWC Portugieser collection hands-on for the first time this year. To complete the collection, IWC launched a version of the Portugieser Chronograph on a stainless steel bracelet. In another premiere, the Swiss luxury brand unveiled the Cyberloupe. A watchmaker’s magnifying glass equipped with a camera, this groundbreaking new tool enables watch lovers to discover the inner workings of a mechanical movement from up close like never before.
From September 9 to 13, the watch world gathers at the West Bund Art Centre for the first Shanghai Edition of Watches & Wonders. IWC Schaffhausen took centre stage at the leading watch fair to showcase its new Portugieser collection, which was launched digitally back in April. For the first time, Chinese media, retailers, and clients could take a closer look at the new models, all of which are fitted with IWC-manufactured calibres to underscore the brand’s engineering expertise.
“It feels great to be here at the West Bund Art Centre in Shanghai and put the new Portugieser models into the hands of our guests. With this edition of Watches & Wonders, China sends a message of confidence to the world in a year which has been as unusual as it has been challenging,” explained Dennis Lee, IWC Managing Director in China.
For the first time, IWC presented a version of the iconic Portugieser Chronograph on a stainless steel bracelet. The beautifully detailed and elaborately finished bracelet is also available as an accessory. It can be fitted on every new model of the Portugieser Chronograph, rendering the timeless chronograph even more versatile.
On display were, among others, the Portugieser Automatic 40 in the iconic Portugieser design established during the late 1930s, or the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 42, a new model with IWC’s legendary perpetual calendar. IWC also showed the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph Edition “Orlebar Brown“, a marine-blue special edition developed in cooperation with Orlebar Brown, a renowned designer of luxurious leisure and resort wear and the brand’s new partner.
LOOKING OVER THE WATCHMAKER’S SHOULDER
In the Lab area of the fair, IWC unveiled the Cyberloupe. This watchmaker’s magnifying glass is equipped with a camera and a network connection. It streams the image that the watchmaker sees in real-time to a screen, allowing watch enthusiasts to experience the inner workings of a mechanical movement in a never-before-seen way. Visitors could, for example, marvel at the constant oscillations of the balance wheel, the small ring-shaped pendulum, which is the beating heart of a mechanical watch. Thanks to this new tool, IWC will be able to share its engineering spirit and fascination for watchmaking and craftsmanship with even more people.
In addition to discovering IWC’s most recent novelties, guests could also participate in hands-on workshops or attend panel sessions on a wide range of topics such as auctions and collecting, or iconic watches. Watches & Wonders Shanghai at the West Bund Art Centre will remain open until September 13. The event is invitation-only.
September 3, 2020
NEW BOUTIQUE CONCEPT FOR ZURICH CELEBRATES IWC’S RACING HERITAGE
Schaffhausen / Zurich – IWC Schaffhausen has opened the doors to its all-new flagship boutique in Zurich. Taking the concept of retail to a new dimension, IWC provides an interactive journey into its world, bringing to life the connection between engineering excellence in watchmaking and motorsport through a focus on the IWC Racing Team. The immersive experience includes memorabilia, virtual reality and even a live link to IWC’s Manufacturing Center in Schaffhausen for clients to enjoy as they browse the brand’s finely crafted timepieces.
Located on the ‘home straight’ of Zurich’s Bahnhofstrasse, the expanded and remodelled boutique has been styled as ‘IWC Racing Works’ – the global home of the brand’s classic racing team. The space invites clients to enter the world of a bustling motor-racing workshop, appointed with a rich blend of motorsport memorabilia, engineering artefacts and unique timepieces that tell the story of the long-standing connection between IWC and motor racing.
The motoring centrepiece is the IWC Racing Mercedes 300 SL “Gullwing” - the official car of the IWC Racing Team, driven by racing legends such as David Coulthard,Bernd Mayländer and Mercedes-AMG ambassador Bernd Schneider. Visitors can not only marvel at the sculptural beauty of the Gullwing, they are also invited to buckle up in the cockpit and put their racing skills to the test in a bespoke VR driving experience.
“With this boutique we wanted to create a story our clients can walk into and become a part of – a permanent event bringing the world of IWC Racing to life,” explains IWC CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr. “The Racing Works store offers a complete in-depth brand and service experience, as well as a centre of excellence for watchmaking.” Upon entering the boutique, clients step into a welcoming and personal space – an eclectic collector’s den filled with marvels of engineering and memories of great adventure. The presentation of the full collection of IWC timepieces takes centre stage, anchored by newly developed open and glass-free presentation cases for a more tactile product experience. The surrounding space is defined by distinct thematic zones:
The ‘Engineering Lab’ tells the story of IWC’s technical excellence and key innovations from the brand’s 152-year history. Movement models and material samples are complemented by a choreographed multimedia presentation.
The ‘Garage’ at the back of the store houses the 300SL Gullwing and the VR driving experience as well as the Hero Wall – an animated presentation of IWC racing drivers, their legendary victories and timepieces.
The ‘Customs Studio’ is reminiscent of an interior trim and upholstery workshop and specializes in strap and accessory customization and personalization. Watch straps made from signature red Mercedes 300SL upholstery leather will be exclusively available at the Zurich boutique.
IWC’s famed hospitality along with themed snacks and drinks can be enjoyed at the ‘Paddock Bar’.
The ‘Driver’s Lounge’ is where guests can suit up and get ready for the race, courtesy of an instore digital shopthe- look concept in partnership with Mr. Porter, and study every twist and turn of the renowned Goodwood Motor Circuit.
The ‘Workshop’ on the lower ground level features the on-site watchmaking studio with AR video functionality as well as a live link to the Manufacturing Center in Schaffhausen. Clients will also be able to browse some of IWC’s most famous ads as well as a curated selection of motor racing themed vintage watches available for sale.
The IWC Racing Works experience will be augmented and extended by virtual and digital features, including interactive shop windows controllable from the outside as well as a full boutique VR experience on iwc.com. Clients will also benefit from a range of new services including part exchange, remote video consultation and interactive visual merchandising that connect customers to both WeChat and IWC.com where our customers can continue their experience post boutique visit. We will also launch a “shop the look” feature in partnership with Mr Porter so that customers can complete their style with a curated collection of clothing and accessories.
The visitor experience at the new flagship boutique is additionally enhanced by a range of digital functionalities. For instance, the content on the displays in the shop windows can be controlled from outside on the street using a mobile phone. In the entrance, a magical interactive book guides visitors through the history of the company’s foundation and IWC’s most important product ranges. The entire flagship boutique can also be visited in virtual reality at iwc.com. Customers can make the most of new services such as video consultations.
“This new space envelops guests in all the excitement of IWC’s racing heritage,” added chief designer Pascal Sbrzesny. “There is so much to explore, an abundance of details and hidden references. We want to take all our guests on a journey of discovery which surprises and entertains.”
IWC Racing Works Zurich is the first in a series of themed IWC flagship boutiques around the world. The next projects will continue to tell the IWC story of engineering and adventure – one exhilarating chapter at a time.
August 19, 2020
IWC Schaffhausen offers customised guided virtual tours
Schaffhausen, 19th of August, 2020 – An exciting new virtual experience will enable watch enthusiasts to explore IWC’s headquarters from their own homes. Via a live stream from Schaffhausen, visitors will be able to take a customised tour of the museum and manufacturing centre, as well as observe first hand a watchmaker at work, using the Swiss company’s innovative new Cyberloupe technology.
Offering the same insight enjoyed on the ever-popular in-person tours, each virtual journey will be adapted to the specific interests of guests and narrated in real-time by knowledgeable guides. A highly interactive and unique experience, the tours’ ease and convenience will open up IWC’s world and its iconic timepieces to more people than ever before.
“With these newly developed virtual tours, visitors will go on an interactive, personalised and memorable journey of discovery, bringing them as close as possible to our home in Schaffhausen, no matter where they may be. Not only will they gain exciting insights into our history and the complex engineering behind our timepieces, but they will also be immersed into the world of IWC in a completely new way,” explains Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen.
A CUSTOMISED LOOK INTO IWC
The journey begins with an introduction to the brand’s rich history before a guide welcomes guests to the manufacturing centre. Short videos with live commentary and live video links to different departments place visitors at the heart of the watchmaking process. From the production of movement parts to cases and assembly, every significant step is covered. Guides also offer a deep-dive into more specific topics like mechanical decoration or advanced case materials, if desired.
BE THE WATCHMAKER
IWC’s patented Cyberloupe technology delivers another tour highlight. The specially developed version of a watchmaker’s magnifying glass features an integrated camera and network connection, allowing visitors to stream the watchmaker’s viewpoint in real-time to their screens. An unprecedented way to explore the inner workings of a movement or learn about complications, the Cyberloupe allows online visitors a fascinating look at IWC’s intricate work.
A HI-TECH TOUR OF A CUTTING-EDGE FACILITY
Exploring IWC’s manufacturing centre online using such up-to-date digital technology suits the building perfectly. Inaugurated in 2018, the factory reflects the same blend of tradition and modern production methods championed by founder Florentine Ariosto Jones in 1868. State-of-the-art machinery and meticulous hand craftsmanship are brought together under one roof. Similarly, the virtual tours rely on modern communication channels to enable visitors from anywhere in the world to discover the brand’s heritage and future at just the touch of a button.
The new virtual tours will be available from September 28th, via IWC.com, IWC boutiques and official retail partners. For bookings and for more information please contact visit@iwc.com.
July 21, 2020
IWC Schaffhausen underpins leadership in sustainable luxury watchmaking
Schaffhausen, 21st July 2020 – IWC Schaffhausen has today released the second edition of its pioneering sustainability report in accordance with Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards.
IWC was the first Swiss luxury watch brand to reference these global best-practice standards in 2018. The company reinforced its commitment to transparent, responsible business practices by setting targets for 2020 that address sustainability. It is now delivering on its commitment to report biennially. The publication of this report marks IWC’s progress in integrating sustainability into decision-making and managing its social and environmental impacts to add value to society.
AN INDUSTRY LEADER IN SUSTAINABILITY REPORTING
IWC leads the luxury watch industry in its transparent and collaborative approach towards sustainability. As makers of finely-crafted watches built to last for generations by combining centuries-old techniques and cutting-edge technology, long-term thinking has always underpinned IWC’s approach to pursuing excellence. Having set its first sustainability targets for 2020 in 2017, IWC Schaffhausen is proud to have successfully:
- Achieved its environmental targets, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 10% and average packaging weight and volume by 30%
- Achieved its targets to reach gender equality in training, double its annual corporate volunteering hours, and reduce the absence rate by 10% by promoting health and wellbeing
- Achieved Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) Code of Practices recertification
LONG-TERM VALUE FOR BUSINESS AND SOCIETY
IWC applies long-term thinking in its approach to handcrafting timepieces and in holding itself to the highest standards of sustainability. It was the first luxury watch brand to meet the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC)’s revised 2019 Code of Practices standards, which includes stronger provisions for responsible business practices and supply chain management. IWC was recognised by the RJC to have adopted good practices beyond legal requirements including sourcing, employer responsibility, and investment in local communities. IWC also works at global and local levels in its ongoing management of environmental impacts – from designing sustainable mechanisms in its state-of-the-art Schaffhausen Manufacturing Centre, to sourcing 100% renewable electricity worldwide, both within the past two years. The company also invests in its local community as an employer, and was the first luxury watch brand to receive a “Great Place to Work™” certification in Switzerland – 90% of colleagues said they were proud to be a part of the IWC family.
TOWARDS A MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Increasing transparency will be an ongoing endeavor, as will implementing circular economy principles beyond those already pursued, which include reusing heat generated by production processes, recycling gold, and developing sustainable new materials. IWC has set clear targets for 2022 focused on environmental sustainability and diversity. These include achieving Equal Pay certification, doubling the share of women in management compared to a 2017 baseline, developing and implementing a Green I.T. strategy, and implementing a blueprint for sustainable events.
ABOUT THE GLOBAL REPORTING INITIATIVE
The Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) provides the world’s most widely used framework for sustainability reporting, offering a structured format to coherently and comprehensively share information about material issues, performance metrics and the management of sustainability-related issues.
July 15, 2020
IWC AND ORLEBAR BROWN CREATE THE ULTIMATE SUMMER COLLECTION
Schaffhausen, 15th July 2020 - IWC Schaffhausen and Orlebar Brown have picked the perfect month of July to announce their new partnership. Marking the start of their collaboration, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has unveiled the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph Edition “Orlebar Brown”, alongside the clothing brand’s new nine-piece collection of resort wear. In stainless steel with a marine-blue dial, elegantly-proportioned case and a co-branded side-fastener deployment strap, the nautical chronograph, which is water-resistant up to 6 bar, is the perfect timepiece for sailing yachts and relaxing on the beach.
Working together, IWC Schaffhausen and Orlebar Brown designed a nine-piece “Capsule Collection” of resort wear. “Just like the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph, our collection combines timeless elegance and a love of adventure. During the design process, we drew inspiration from IWC’s Portugieser, a watch family that is traditionally associated with the world of water, sailing and navigation. Our collection is intended for men who successfully navigate through life, and the range supports the dynamic lifestyle of sailors, adventurers and explorers with good design, reliable functionality and supreme style,” explained Adam Brown, founder of Orlebar Brown.
The collection includes a white towelling blazer with blue piping and a cotton/silk knitted polo. A highlight in the collection is a photographic swim short with signature side fasteners, depicting a Solaris 55 sailing yacht in front of Porto Rotondo in Sardinia. This design celebrates the recently announced partnership with IWC and Italian luxury yacht brand Solaris.
The Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph Edition “Orlebar Brown” is available from July in IWC boutiques and from authorised retailers.
The “Orlebar Brown x IWC Capsule Collection” by Orlebar Brown and IWC is available from 15th July 2020
July 15, 2020
IWC AND SOLARIS YACHTS SET SAIL WITH THE “DOUBLE MOON”
Schaffhausen, 15 July 2020 – IWC Schaffhausen and its partner Solaris Yachts have jointly worked on a very special customised sailing yacht. A 55-foot Solaris 55 from the Italian boatbuilder was designed to perfectly reflect the spirit and visual codes of the new Portugieser watch collection. The yacht’s name “DOUBLE MOON” refers to the iconic moon-phase indication of IWC’s legendary perpetual calendar complication.
The history of the IWC Portugieser is inextricably linked to seafaring, sailing and navigation. In the late 1930s, the watchmakers from Schaffhausen developed the first Portugieser, a wristwatch with the precision of a marine chronometer. Its clean, functional dial took inspiration from the deck observation watches of the time; nautical precision instruments used for navigation. With the new collection, IWC continues the maritime legacy of the Portugieser and introduces a broad range of attractive new models, all of which are fitted with IWC-manufactured calibres and feature a timelessly modern design inspired by the world of modern yachting.
To make the universe of the Portugieser tangible in a never-before-seen way, designers from IWC and Solaris Yachts joined forces to create a customised sailing yacht. The starting point was the Solaris 55, a 55-footlong racer/cruiser which is optimised for performance sailing with a small crew but also offers maximum comfort for extended cruising. The creative specialists carefully adapted the yacht to different design codes found in the new IWC Portugieser collection, while at the same time making sure that it perfectly represents the look and feel of the brand’s new advertising campaign.The yacht’s name, “DOUBLE MOON”, is reminiscent of the unique moon-phase display of IWC’s legendary perpetual calendar. Presented for the first time in 2003 in the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar (Ref. 5201), it correctly depicts the phase of the moon as seen in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
April 25, 2020
The icon continues to evolve: IWC Schaffhausen adds attractive new models to the Portugieser family
IWC Schaffhausen presents several new Portugieser models. A compact automatic model in the iconic Portugieser design, a new model with the legendary perpetual calendar, a nautical sports chronograph with an elegantly proportioned case,and the first watch fitted with a tide display. These are the highlights of the new collection, all of which are equipped with IWC-manufactured calibres and further enhance the unique appeal of the Portugieser family.
Only a few designs are absolutely timeless. With the Portugieser, IWC created such an icon in the late 1930s. The basis for the Reference 325, which was delivered to two dealers from Portugal – hence its name – was a hunter pocket watch calibre. Inspiration for the clean, open, highly functional dial came from the deck watches IWC was producing for the British Royal Navy at the time. From the outset, the Portugieser had the typical stylistic features of a pocket watch, coupled with the high precision and easy readability of a nautical instrument. “The amazing thing about the Portugieser is that its face has hardly changed since then. The clear, functional design looks just as fresh and contemporary today as it did over 80 years ago. The Portugieser thus embodies precisely the same, timeless modernity that distinguishes IWC as a brand. The new collection now makes our best-known watch family even more attractive and demonstrates how the iconic design continues to evolve,” explains Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen.
March 2, 2020
DISCOVER IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN’S NEW PACKAGING
Mechanical watches from IWC are masterworks of craftsmanship. When they are not worn on the wrist, it is advisable to store them carefully in a safe place. IWC now offers three different watch boxes. Thanks to high-quality materials and an extremely durable finishing, the pouches contained therein are also ideally suited as travel accessories. The new packaging uses 30% less material and 90% less plastic than before. The watch pouches are reusable, which further contributes to reducing waste.
Discover more here.
The leather pouch and leather box are also sold as accessories in IWC Boutiques.
February 19, 2020
IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN AND LAUREUS CELEBRATE THE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAUREUS WORLD SPORTS AWARDS
During the 20th anniversary celebrations of the Laureus World Sports Awards, IWC Schaffhausen visited a local Laureus-supported project in Berlin. The Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has been a partner of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation since 2005, and its trip to the community project reaffirmed the brand’s commitment to the foundation’s work. IWC also presented its 14th Laureus special edition watch, the Portugieser Hand-Wound Monopusher Edition “Laureus Sport for Good”, in the course of the festivities.
Mingling with the global sporting elite, as well as many prominent personalities from the world of politics, economics and entertainment, IWC Schaffhausen celebrated two decades of the Laureus World Sports Awards at the Verti Music Hall in Berlin. This year’s gala focused on Laureus’s anniversary campaign, “Sport Unites Us”. The award ceremony, recognised as the “Oscars of Sports”, not only honours the world’s best athletes but also shines a spotlight on the work of Laureus Sport for Good. The foundation currently supports over 200 projects in 40 countries.
Read more here.
IWC brand ambassador Fabian Cancellara (L-R), Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen and IWC ambassador Maro Engel attend the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards at Verti Music Hall on February 17, 2020 in Berlin, Germany
Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images for IWC
New member of the Laureus World Sports Academy, Bryan Habana (L) received the Portugieser Hand-Wound Monopusher Edition “Laureus Sport for Good” from IWC CEO Christoph Grainger-Herr which was launched on the occasion of the Laureus World Sport Awards on February 17, 2020 in Berlin
Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images for IWC
Fabian Cancellara attends the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards at Verti Music Hall on February 17, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. The most outstanding athletes of the past year were honored at the Laureus World Sports Awards 2020
Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images for IWC
IWC Brand Ambassador Lewis Hamilton attends the 2020 Laureus World Sports Awards at Verti Music Hall on February 17, 2020 in Berlin, Germany. The most outstanding athletes of the past year were honored at the Laureus World Sports Awards 2020
Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images for IWC
The new Portugieser Hand-Wound Monopusher Edition “Laureus Sport for Good” was launched on the occasion of the Laureus World Sport Awards on February 17, 2020 in Berlin, Germany
Photo by Lukas Schulze/Getty Images for IWC
Portugieser Hand-Wound Monopusher Edition “Laureus Sport for Good”
January 31, 2020
IWC launches new line of Portugieser Chronographs with in-house movement
The Portugieser Chronograph is one of IWC Schaffhausen’s most iconic models. With its compact diameter of 41 millimetres, it fits almost any wrist. However, the thin bezel gives one the impression of wearing a significantly larger watch. The clear, functional dial boasts applied Arabic numerals and slender Feuille hands. Printed with a quarter-second scale, the characteristic réhaut not only allows precise reading of the stop time but also reminds us of the Portugieser’s origins as a nautical precision instrument for the wrist.
Now featured inside the sporty-elegant chronograph, is the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre. The robust and precise chronograph movement in classic column-wheel design is visible now through a sapphire-glass case back.
Discover the new watches here.
January 22, 2020
New on iwc.com: browse recent collections
In the IWC Recent Collections you will find information and technical specifications about watches from our most recent collections. Browse watches released per year, and search by name, reference number, and collection.
Discover more here to browse our past collections.
January 9, 2020
Hayden Cox and IWC Schaffhausen present Haydenshapes’ pioneering approach to upcycling manufacturing waste
IWC Schaffhausen and brand ambassador Hayden Cox have released a new film showcasing the surfboard designer at work. Focusing on Cox’s pioneering approach to upcycling, within his Haydenshapes Surfboard business, it marks the next stage of a shared journey between the Australian and IWC Schaffhausen towards greater sustainability.
Shot mostly on location at Haydenshapes’ floating pop up studio ‘Remote’ on Sydney’s Pittwater, which was set up in partnership with IWC Schaffhausen, the film demonstrates how the company is trying to reduce its impact on the environment. Cox is shown repurposing manufacturing waste, which is typically thrown away, into performance surfboard components and an innovative new cloth.
IWC Schaffhausen has long been a leading proponent of greater sustainability within the industry. As well as recently signing up to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s New Plastics Economy Global Commitment to avoid plastic waste, renewable electricity powers the brand’s new Manufacturing Centre as well as the Headquarters.
Read more here.
November 14, 2019
IWC and Laureus Sport for Good take programme participants to the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport factory
IWC Schaffhausen and Laureus Sport for Good offered a group of young people an exclusive look behind the scenes of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport factory in Brackley, UK. The group, who are members of the Laureus-supported Fight for Peace programme, were given a unique insight into how the team’s championship-winning cars are designed and manufactured.
Based on a shared passion for engineering, IWC Schaffhausen has been the “Official Engineering Partner” of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport since 2013. Teaming up with another of its partners, Laureus Sport for Good, IWC Schaffhausen offered a small group of children a fascinating look behind the scenes. With academies in Rio de Janeiro and London, and through an alliance of partners in 25 countries, the Fight for Peace programme works to realise the potential of young people living in communities affected by violence, crime and social exclusion. Combining martial arts with education and personal development, it aims to eventually help attendees into further education, employment or training.
Read more here. Discover the partnership with Laureus Sport for Good here and Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport here.
November 5, 2019
IWC toasts historic title double for Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport
IWC Schaffhausen is proud to congratulate long-standing partner Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport and brand ambassadors Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas on yet another stellar Formula One™ season.
At this weekend’s United States Grand Prix, Hamilton secured his sixth FIA Formula One™ Drivers’ World Championship*. The race result at the Circuit of The Americas places the Briton safely beyond the reach of all his competitors, with another two rounds still to go. Hamilton was previously crowned champion in 2008, 2014, 2015, 2017 and 2018.
Just a few weeks ago, at the Japanese Grand Prix, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport clinched the 2019 FIA Formula One™ World Constructors’ Championship*. Hamilton’s success in Austin makes Mercedes the first team in the history of Formula One racing to score six successive title doubles.
Proving just how imperious Mercedes - and their drivers - have been in 2019, Hamilton’s team mate Valtteri Bottas was the only other person in the running for the drivers’ title on Sunday.
Read more about the partnership here.
*Subject to the FIA’s official confirmation of the 2019 FIA Formula One World Championship™ results
October 16, 2019
Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport secures the 2019 FIA Formula One™ World Constructors’ Championship*
Congratulations to IWC partner, Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport, on securing the 2019 FIA Formula One™ World Constructors’ Championship* upon the completion of the Japanese Grand Prix. The win is the sixth consecutive title for the team since 2014.
IWC Ambassador Valtteri Bottas earned the victory in the race, with teammate Lewis Hamilton placing third.
Read more about the partnership here.
*Subject to official confirmation by the FIA of the results of the 2019 FIA Formula One™ World Championship
October 10, 2019
IWC ambassador Cate Blanchett plays a leading role at the presentation of the 5th Filmmaker Award
Acclaimed actress and producer Cate Blanchett has presented the 5th Filmmaker Award. The award ceremony took place during the 15th Zurich Film Festival at an exclusive IWC Schaffhausen private dinner at rooftop restaurant Haute. The award, which is worth CHF 100,000, supports Swiss film projects that are in the production or post-production stage. A few days earlier, the Zurich Film Festival was officially opened with “Die Stimme des Regenwaldes” by Niklaus Hilber, a previous winner of the Filmmaker Award.
Read more about the event here, and discover the partnership here.
IWC Schaffhausen CMO Franziska Gsell, award winners Reto Schaerli (producer), Bettina Oberli (film director), Judith Kaufmann (director of photography), Australian actress and IWC brand ambassador Cate Blanchett, and IWC Schaffhausen CEO Chris Grainger-Herr
Photo by Harold Cunningham/Getty Images for IWC
Australian actress and IWC brand ambassador Cate Blanchett signs autographs on the ZFF Green Carpet as she attends the special screening of “Where’d You Go, Bernadette” at the ZFF festival centre
Photo by Harold Cunningham/Getty Images for IWC
Zurich Film Festival director Nadja Schildknecht, IWC brand ambassador Cate Blanchett, CEO IWC Schaffhausen Christoph Grainger-Herr, Zurich Film Festival director Karl Spoerri and CMO IWC Schaffhausen Franziska Gsell on the Green Carpet to attend the special screening of “Where’d You Go, Bernadette”
Photo by Harold Cunningham/Getty Images for IWC
Portofino: the spirit of classic glamour reimagined for 2019
IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled reinterpreted editions of their signature Portofino line for 2019. The women’s collection welcomes five smaller models, with an innovative strap change system, whilst six additional watches join the men’s line.
Portofino has been one of IWC’s most high-profile families ever since its first launch back in 1984. As legend has it, then-head watchmaker and living legend Kurt Klaus and head designer Hanno Burtscher put pen to paper over a glass of wine, devising a simple and elegant watch inspired by the classic rounded designs of the fifties and sixties.
Discover the new collection here.
IWC reveals new Portofino campaign, featuring model Josephine Skriver and actress Ning Chang
IWC Schaffhausen has teamed up with new brand ambassadors, model Josephine Skriver and actress Ning Chang, to unveil the new Portofino 34mm line. The beautiful campaign was shot entirely on location in the idyllic Italian village, which inspired the collection’s name.
Visit the IWC Press Area to discover more.
“Time to care”: IWC and Laureus sport for good announce the winner of this year’s drawing competition
Following the annual Laureus Sport for Good and IWC Schaffhausen drawing competition, we are delighted to announce the winning design by 15 year old Yi Xin, a participant of the Laureus supported programme, Special Olympics China.
This year’s competition was based on the theme ‘Time to Care’ and we received hundreds of entries from young people in Laureus-supported programmes all over the world, expressing their own thoughts on the importance of caring about every day issues in their drawings. Yi Xin’s winning design is a wonderful celebration of friendship, and it will be engraved on the back of the 2020 IWC Schaffhausen “Laureus Sport for Good” special edition timepiece to support Laureus Sport for Good programmes around the world.
We would like to thank all the programmes who submitted such wonderful drawings as well as everyone who took time to vote for their favourite.
2019 British Grand Prix
Congratulations to IWC Brand Ambassador Lewis Hamilton, who claimed his 80th victory in Formula One™, his seventh of the 2019 season and record sixth at the British Grand Prix. IWC Ambassador Valtteri Bottas came in second, to give Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Team a 1-2 victory.
IWC celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Youth Foundation with an exclusive exhibition and charity auction
The timepiece involved is the Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Edition “Le Petit Prince” (Ref. IW392202) in 18-carat 5N gold. Featuring a spectacular midnight blue dial, this special edition is limited to 250 pieces worldwide. The auction lot itself is the piece 10 out of 250 with a beige luminescent index at 10 o’clock in celebration of the foundation’s 10th anniversary.
Watch lovers around the world will be able to place bids on the unique timepiece honouring Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s most famous literary work, “The Little Prince”, from 8th–17th July. IWC will donate its proceeds from the sale to the Foundation, continuing to support the charitable organisation’s educational programmes for young people.
The timepiece will be offered within Sotheby’s Watches Online sale. A “The Little Prince - Tactile Art Book, Claude Garrandes edition” with drawings in relief and texts in English, French and Braille and signed by François d’Agay, President of the Antoine de Saint Exupéry Youth Foundation and Dr Claude Garrandes will accompany the timepiece.
“Time to Care”: IWC and Laureus Sport for Good present this year’s drawing competition
This year’s IWC Drawing Competition demonstrated the creative flair of young people from Laureus-supported programmes around the world. Under the theme “Time to Care”, programme participants expressed their own thoughts on the importance of caring about every day issues, through the creativity of drawing.
The winning design will be engraved on the back of the 2020 IWC Schaffhausen “Laureus Sport for Good” special edition timepiece. For the winning programme participant, Laureus and IWC will organize a special project visit with a Laureus Academy Member.
Reviewing over 200 entries from 30+programmes around the world, a jury of representatives from IWC Schaffhausen and Laureus Sport for Good selected a shortlist of three drawings. Click here to view the selected drawings and vote in the competition.
IWC supports Cousteau Divers to reveal the ocean’s temperatures
On June 8, World Oceans Day, IWC Schaffhausen announces its support for a pioneering environmental project, spearheaded by its partner, Cousteau Divers. Cousteau Divers intends to study the effects of climate change by measuring the temperature beneath the ocean’s surface, combining data from precision sensors with measurements taken by thousands of recreational divers. The goal is to give scientists a better understanding of how the ocean’s temperature affects biodiversity and climate.
Visit the IWC Press Area to discover more.
IWC Celebrates The 10th Anniversary Of The Antoine De Saint-Exupéry Youth Foundation With An Exclusive Exhibition And Charity Auction
IWC Schaffhausen and the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Youth Foundation (FASEJ) celebrate the Foundation’s 10th anniversary with a “10 years, 10 days” exhibition from 10th–20th June in Paris. The highlight of the exhibition is a preview of a unique Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Edition “Le Petit Prince”, which will be auctioned online by Sotheby’s between 8th and 17th July. IWC will donate its proceeds from the sale to the Foundation, continuing to support the charitable organisation’s educational programmes for young people.
Visit the IWC Press Area to discover more.
IWC brand ambassador Adriana Lima boxes with kids from a Laureus Program in Mexico
Brazilian supermodel Adriana Lima has been an IWC brand ambassador since 2012, and a keen boxer for over ten years. She recently visited a local boxing gym in Mexico City for a sparring session with children who are taking part in an initiative called CAPAZ (Campeones de la Paz or “Peace Champions”). This preventive program against violence and crime empowers young people and their families by combining boxing with psychological group therapy, citizenship classes, human rights training and parenting skills.
Visit the IWC Press Area to discover more.
IWC Premieres New Pilot’s Watches campaign movie with brand ambassador Lewis Hamilton
IWC Schaffhausen premieres its new Spitfire collection campaign movie, starring brand ambassador Lewis Hamilton. The five-time Formula One™ World Champion appears alongside a Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow race car and a Silver Spitfire aircraft.
77th Goodwood Members’ Meeting
IWC Schaffhausen’s motorsport team competed at the Goodwood Members’ Meeting for the second time this weekend. At the wheel of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL “Gullwing”, former Formula One™ star and brand ambassador David Coulthard competed in the Tony Gaze Trophy and finished in 1st place.
Visit the IWC Press Area to discover more.
Selected for you
A high-flying career: An IWC collector shares his path to the cockpit
IWC collector Antonio Gomes shares stories about his career as a pilot and which timepieces are his favorites. Read his story below.
The IWC Mark XVIII - The evolution of a legend
The IWC Mark XVIII - The evolution of a legend
Watch collecting: A family affair
The Journal travels to Singapore to meet IWC watch collector Michael Hilton and his son Max. Learn more about their love of collecting IWC watches here.
