In
the 1950s an increasing number of elector appliances were making their way into
ordinary households. These generated magnetic fields that adversely affected
the accuracy of wristwatches. Engineers, in particular, often worked in areas
subject to magnetic fields. Making a new watch line especially for this
profession seemed like a good idea.
Launched
in 1954/55, the Ingenieur set the bar for all subsequent entries into the
category, including the Omega Railmaster and the Rolex Milgauss. IWC released
the Ingenieur in 1955 to meet a growing need for high quality, purpose built
tool watches appropriate for professional applications. IWC made a watch
specifically made to operate in environments with high magnetic fields, up to
1,000 Gauss.
Offered
originally in date (666AD) and non-date format (666A), the 666 series are one
of the most hard to find vintage IWC models on the market today. The 666A is a
3-hand dial, equipped with the 852 calibre, while the 666AD houses a 8521
calibre and boasts a date display A
combination of limited production and its unassuming looks, not to mention the
perils of time, make early examples such as this one a highly desirable
"pre-Genta" Ingenieur.
The Ingenieur was constructed with an inner case and dust cap made of soft iron that enabled the mechanism to withstand strong magnetic fields. These watches have become increasingly sought after in recent years due to the high quality mechanical movements utilized, a larger case size and well proportioned, elegant dial designs.
I have managed to find one from my friend Matthew.
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