Geneva, Nov 07, 2021

LOT 257

IWC, REF. 325, OVERSIZE PORTUGUESE, FIRST GENERATION, BLACK DIAL, STEEL

CHF 50,000 - 70,000

HKD 422,000 - 590,000 / USD 55,000 - 76,000 / EUR 46,600 - 66,000

Sold: CHF 93,750

A very fine and rare, important, large, manual wind stainless steel wristwatch with black dial.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3-8

Good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 3-6-8-01

Good

Slightly oxidized

Slightly scratched

HANDS Original

Brand IWC

Model Portuguese

Reference 325

Year sold in February 1942

Case No. 1063640

Diameter 42 mm

Caliber 74, 16 jewels

Signature Dial, case and movement

Accessories IWC certificate dated 2016

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.