Home » IWC Watches » IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic Watch
In 2008, IWC from Schaffhausen launched six timepieces which represent modern reinterpretations of the iconic models from the company’s past. One of them was Da Vinci Automatic Watch which, like its historic original from 1969, boasts a striking angular case with an avant-garde design.
IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic Watch IW546103
The very first Da Vinci timepiece was powered by the Beta Caliber 21 quartz movement, or as IWC named it, the Caliber 2001. Unlike its ancestor, Vintage Da Vinci Automatic is equipped with a modern, IWC-manufactured Caliber 80111 featuring Pellaton automatic winding system. The mechanical movement perfectly combines ruggedness with accuracy. The self-winding mechanism preserves 44 hours of power reserve when fully wound and it is built on 28 jewels. Further, it offers maximum protection against abrasion and other defects. Thus, it has been incorporated in several models, such as Vintage Aquatimer Automatic and Vintage Ingenieur Automatic. Tough and attractive mechanical movement is visible through a transparent case-back.
IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic Watch IW546103 Caseback
IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic is housed in a tonneau-shaped case with the diameter of 41 mm and the thickness of 13.5 mm. Depending on a model, there is a choice for the cases’ materials among titanium, 18-karat white gold, 18-karat red gold and stainless steel. Each of them is protected on both sides by convex sapphire glasses with antireflective coatings and provides water-resistance up to 30 meters (100 feet).
Classic Design Elements Combined with the Latest Technology
The original model from the 1960s with extra-long hour markers and simple baton-shaped hands represented the perfect example of the avant-garde design that marked the period. The redesigned model has retained some old features, but it has also brought contemporary shapes and lines which undeniably underscore its modernity.
At the first glance on the dial, you may think that the time had stood still, but a peek through the sapphire-glass back will quickly persuade you otherwise.
The fashionable dial comprises baton-shaped hands and hour markers. Depending on a model, there is a choice among a black, an ardoise or a silver-plated dial. The company’s logo is situated at the 12 o’clock position, whereas the line’s logo is located on the opposite side, at the 6 o’clock position. A date window is displayed traditionally at the 3 o’clock position.
IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic Watch IW546105
Da Vinci Automatic is also known as the fifth masterpiece in the Vintage Collection. The Swiss manufacturer of luxury watches offers four versions of this timepiece. The most expensive and, in my opinion, the most attractive one is the platinum model with the referent number IW546105. This version boasts a silver-plated and a black alligator leather strap and it can be purchased for $38,000. Platinum Da Vinci is limited to only 500 pieces.
IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic Watch IW546101
IWC Vintage Da Vinci Automatic Watch IW546104
Two models are attached to dark brown alligator leather straps and you can choose between the stylish model, IW546104, in 18-karat white gold and the exquisite version, IW546103, in 18-karat rose gold. The first one has an ardoise dial and it is priced $17,000, while the second one matches a sliver-plated dial with red gold appliqués and it comes with the price tag of $14,900. The most affordable Da Vinci Automatic combines black and gray color scheme. The model IW546101 is crafted from stainless steel and it comes with the retail price of $7,300.
IWC Vintage Da Vinci automatic watch IW546105 (a black alligator leather strap and a silver-plated dial) is the most beautiful variation from this collection. 18-karat white gold is my favorite material. In my case, the choices of a brand and a luxury material are not just a matter of prestige.
Water-Resistance is low, but it meets my needs.
Yes, Melvin. IWC Da Vinci Chronograph has a fabulous look and preferences, but it has also a slightly higher price. IWC Vintage Da Vinci automatic watch has a higher offer for a lower price. Da Vinci Chronograph (ceramic and titanium) has the same price as Da Vinci Automatic 18-karat white or rose gold. I think this is a stupid comment.
I must be honest and admit that I don’t like this watch at all. It has so robust case shape. I prefer round shaped watches, especially Omega or Bulova watches. Another thing that really surprised me negatively is its strap. I just can’t remember that a watch which costs around $15,000 doesn’t have a normal leather strap. The designs of those straps are awful.
Jim, I don’t know why you said that this watch has bad straps. Hey, they look very nice. I like them very much. This brown leather strap looks amazing in combination with a gold case. And there is also a watch which costs only $7,300. You have chosen one of the most expensive watches from this collection.
These straps are pretty for you maybe, but believe me, my dear Oscar, there aren’t many people who share your opinion. I talk with many people every day, and I was talking about this watch yesterday with my friends, they all said that this watch is too expensive and bad looking. Trust me, for those $7,300 or $15,000 you can buy four or maybe five superb watches from other manufacturers.