Behind the Revamp of IWC's Iconic Ingenieur Automatic 40 Watch
The Swiss maker has fine-tuned the iconic design of its trailblazing luxury sports watch.
The late designer Gérald Genta is revered as the “Picasso of watches”. It’s a reputation founded largely on his game-changing work in the 1970s, when he created the integrated bracelet, a radical new form of strap that, rather than being connected by traditional lugs, was reimagined as a fluid extension of the case. Genta’s innovative bracelet was first applied to the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak in 1972, followed by the Patek Philippe Nautilus in 1976 and then on a redesigned version of the IWC Ingenieur later that same year.
Over the past decade, demand for this style of luxury sports watch has rocketed so IWC’s decision to revamp the Ingenieur in 2023 was a tactical no-brainer. The modified design elevated the aesthetic code of Genta’s original with subtle upgrades to make it an even more compelling proposition for the here and now.
Measuring 40 millimetres in diameter, its steel case flaunts dramatic curves and a refashioned bezel that’s attached with symmetrical precision by five polygonal screws. Its improved ergonomics are notable, with the case measuring 45.7 millimetres from lug to lug and sitting on a slinkier bracelet that’s configured with thinner links. The result feels more opulent thanks in part to the satin finish. Yet despite these refinements, the new model is still a rugged proposition with the crown guards ensuring 100-metre water resistance for the in-house movement, which comes with a five-day power reserve.
The latest addition to the Ingenieur collection sticks to this winning template while offering a fresh twist. Initially, the updated timepiece was presented with dial options in black, silver-plated, aqua and grey. Now IWC has rendered the grid-like pattern in a deep blue, in what feels like a logical progression for Genta’s famous design. After all, Picasso was known for his Blue Period, too.
