IWC Compass Watch IW3551; Automatic Men's Watch (Full Set 1989)
Description
Directly from a collector! This IWC Compass Watch with reference IW3551 is undoubtedly one of the most unique and rare watches ever produced by IWC. This innovative model was developed in the late 1980s in collaboration with the famous industrial designer Ferdinand A. Porsche of Porsche Design and was ahead of its time. This watch is distinguished by a unique construction and materials, with a fully functional compass integrated into the case.
As such, the Compass Watch ranks among the most iconic toolwatches in IWC's history. This piece dates from 03-1989 and is in good vintage condition with some typical discoloration for this model.
The case has a diameter of 40mm, a modern size that remains comfortable and super light today. Particularly special is that this watch is offered as a complete full set, which is rarely found with this rare model and significantly increases its collectibility.
The most striking feature of the IWC Compass Watch is the ingenious double case construction. By opening the top case, a mechanical compass is revealed, protected from the magnetic influences of the movement. This technical solution was revolutionary at the time and showcases how pioneering IWC and Porsche Design were during this period.
Internally, it houses the IWC Cal. 375, which runs exceptionally well with good timekeeping and very high accuracy. There are some replaced parts included, suggesting that it has indeed been serviced.
The synthetic strap is still in good condition aside from discoloration and is very wearable. The strap fits wrists up to approximately 19cm.
The IWC Compass Watch was produced in limited quantities and has therefore grown into a coveted collectible among enthusiasts of vintage IWC watches and Porsche Design. Complete sets are particularly rare today, making this piece a unique opportunity for serious collectors.
This example is offered as a full set from 1989, including the original box and (warranty papers) papers, original IWC tool, extra link, our warranty report, and 1 year warranty.
An exceptional piece of watch history where innovation, technology, and design come together. The IWC Compass Watch IW3551 is much more than a watch; it is an iconic toolwatch that was ahead of its time and remains among IWC's most remarkable creations.
Specifications
Basic data
| Brand | IWC |
| Horloge model | Compass Watch |
| Horloge referentienummer | IW3551 |
| Horloge jaar | 1989 |
| Conditie | Good condition |
| Doelgroep | Men Unisex |
| Horloge inbegrepen | Papieren Doos |
| Horloge inbegrepen extra | Full-Set 03-1989 |
Watch case
| Horloge materiaal kast | Aluminium |
| Horloge kleur wijzerplaat | Zwart |
| Horloge glastype | Saffierglas |
| Horloge waterbestendigheid | 3 ATM |
| Horloge materiaal bezel | Aluminium |
Watch strap
| Horloge materiaal band | Kunststof |
| Horloge kleur band | Zwart |
| Horloge sluiting | Enkele vouw sluiting |
| Horloge sluiting materiaal | Titanium |
Hourwork
| Horloge type uurwerk | Automaat |
| Horloge kaliber | IWC Cal. 375 Automatic |
| Horloge functies | Datum Maanfase |
Additional details
| Article number | HH-JW-1171 |
| EAN number | 6686584662700 |
| Horloge functies | Date Moonphase |
| Horloge glastype | Sapphire crystal |
| Horloge inbegrepen | Papers Box |
| Horloge inbegrepen extra | Full Set 03-1989 |
| Horloge kaliber | IWC Cal. 375 Automatic |
| Horloge kleur band | Black |
| Horloge kleur wijzerplaat | Black |
| Horloge materiaal band | Synthetic |
| Horloge materiaal bezel | Aluminum |
| Horloge materiaal kast | Aluminum |
| Horloge sluiting | Single folding clasp |
| Horloge sluiting materiaal | Titanium |
| Horloge type uurwerk | Automatic |
| Horloge waterbestendigheid | 3 ATM |
| Horloge jaar | 1989 |
| Horloge model | Compass Watch |
| Horloge referentienummer | IW3551 |