IWC Schaffhausen Aquatimer Automatic Blue

The model was first presented at SIHH in 2014 and is a representative of the new Aquatimer series, launched in the same year. With the launch of the new Aquatimer line, the manufacturer returns to a clean design that pays homage to the original 1967 model. Gone are the colorful hues (the previous generation played quite a bit with yellow-orange-blue-red...), gone are the oversized cases with modern bezels – everything is clean, simple, and elegant. In our personal opinion, these timepieces are much more befitting of the IWC name. The most impressive change for the series and this model in particular (besides the fact that it has become smaller compared to the previous series), is the bezel, which is now steel, unlike the previous one which had a sapphire insert. Besides being steel, the bezel rotates the internal diving ring in a very convenient and interesting way – when the bezel is turned clockwise, the inner ring rotates in the opposite direction. The manufacturer calls the innovation developed for this purpose the IWC Safe Diving system, and in addition to the external bezel and the internal flange, it also involves the "crown" on the left side of the case – which is often mistaken for a helium valve. The ring itself has clear, distinct indications with abundant use of Super-LumiNova®, which ensures that the dive time can be monitored even in unfavorable lighting conditions, and the massive edges of the external bezel flange are convenient to handle even with thick gloves. Another feature worthy of attention is the quick-change strap system, thanks to which it can be replaced in seconds without the need for special tools. The movement of this watch is the ETA 2892-A2, specially modified for the brand – which IWC calls IWC caliber 30120 – a movement proven in many brands and models, time-tested, and relatively easy and inexpensive to maintain – which for this brand is of the highest grade from ETA. Despite the fact that the watch is a true instrument for professionals, it is made to look like a very expensive and noticeable accessory that can hardly go unnoticed and proudly shows that it carries the DNA of a high-quality brand with tradition and history. It is clear that most such watches, despite having everything necessary to be used for their intended purpose, rarely see the depths of the sea (if ever), but in my opinion, this one has an urgent need to get wet – at the very least to pay the necessary homage to the "Aqua" prefix in its name.