Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Geneva, May 11, 2019

LOT 90

IWC, REF. 325, PORTUGUESE, CAL. 74, STEEL

CHF 15,000 - 25,000

HKD 120,000 - 200,000 / USD 15,000 - 25,000

Sold: CHF 43,750

A fine, large, very rare, manual wind, stainless steel wristwatch.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3-8

Good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 2-10-01

Very good

Patinated

HANDS Original

Brand IWC

Model Portuguese

Reference 325

Year Sold in February 1944

Movement No. 932061

Calibre  74

Case No. 1087233

Dimensions 42 mm

Signature Dial, Case and Movement.

Accessories IWC extract from the archives

Notes

Known to many collectors as the reference 325, this model is actually the birth of the line and is considered the original Portuguese. According to IWC, the watch line was created when a Portuguese client requested a wristwatch with the same accuracy and size as a pocket watch and in response the first Portuguese watch was created. Interestingly, most of these early examples were delivered to Eastern Europe, probably due to many restrictions linked to World War II, and this example in particular was sold to Bratislava. While there are 3 generations accepted by collectors of reference 325, this is part of the first generation and according to IWC was only made in 304 pieces and is one of the most important IWC wristwatches ever manufactured. Provenance: Christies, Geneva, November 2010, lot 222.