There are also two chronograph models. These are separated between the more basic Aquatimer Chronograph (refs. IW376801, IW376802, IW376803, IW376804) that like the Aquatimer Automatic, will come with a black- or silver-plated dial on a rubber strap or metal bracelet. These watches are likely about 44mm wide and each comes with a steel case. These models contain Swiss ETA Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph movements with the full 12 hour chronograph and day/date display.
Try not to get too confused, but IWC has another collection of Aquatimer Chronograph models, each being part of a themed limited edition that we will discuss more below. Each of the Aquatimer Chronograph limited edition models use the IWC in-house made caliber 89365 movement. Based on the architecture of the Valjoux 7750, the 89365 is a pretty different chronograph movement with a 60 minute counter, date, and flyback function. It is not the 12 hour chronograph (with two hands in the upper sub dial) that the previous Aquatimer Chronograph model had, that would be the IWC caliber 89361. These have a different dial layout compared to the more basic Aquatimer Chronograph models with the steel case.
New Dive Watch Technology
In our original article on the 2014 IWC Aquatimer models, we mentioned that IWC fitted the new watches with an internal rotating bezel. One thing we did know for sure was that the internal rotating bezel was operated by turning the external bezel. What we didn’t know is that it uses a rather awesome ratcheting system. We also guessed that what looked to be a second crown on the left of the case was a helium release value. We were wrong, and the new Aquatimers don’t appear to have a helium release valve at all (which no one will miss). The left crown is actually a lock. It prevents the external bezel from rotating thereby keeping the timer secure while diving.
What’s more, is the special ratcheting system. The external rotating bezel turns in both directions, but only moves the inner rotating bezel when moving counter-clockwise. IWC claims that the ratcheting system helps people wearing gloves to operate it. It actually makes sense, given that sometimes turning the bezel requires an awkward rotation of the wrist to do it quickly. I really look forward to playing with this new bezel system hands-on soon.
IWC follows the lead of other brands to include a new quick-release system for the strap or bracelet. I believe previous generation Aquatimers had a similar solution, but this is something new. The idea is to allow the wearer to change between the rubber strap and steel bracelet with ease. The rubber strap is going to be more secure and sporty for action occasions while the metal bracelet is going to be more elegant. The system is rather simple and involves a pusher on the inside section of the strap.
Charles Darwin, Jacques Cousteau, & The Galapagos Islands Edition Aquatimer Watches
Each of the Aquatimer Chronograph models that feature an in-house IWC movement are also limited/special edition models, and there are four of them. These pieces will perhaps get the most attention because they offer a lot of things to talk about. I believe that they will have 44-45mm wide cases. Further, each of these models will be water resistant to 300 meters and again will include IWC caliber 89365 automatic chronograph movements.
The first two models are each related to IWC’s relationship with organizations that help preserve or study Galapagos Islands. First is the Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “50 Years Science for Galapagos” (ref. IW379504). It features a black vulcanized rubber-coated case with black-and-white dial. The second model is the related Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “Galapagos Islands” (ref. IW379502). What is different about this dial, is that the hands and markers are blue-versus white like the other Galapagos Island model. Each of these models has the black rubber-coated case and is limited to 500 pieces each.
One model that we don’t have a picture of is the 2014 Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “Expedition Jaques-Yves Cousteau” (ref. IWC376805). It will be similar to the Galapagos Islands models but have a steel case (and probably a black-and-white dial).
Finally, there is what is going to be the most talked about limited edition Aquatimer for 2014. It is also the first IWC watch produced from bronze. A rare material in watch making, until Gerald Genta brought us the Gefica (aBlogtoWatch review here). Bronze has been a hot material as of late, being fueled but the independent watch making community. Bronze perhaps hit its most mainstream moment when Panerai decided to use it for a case material. Now, IWC embraces bronze for the Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “Expedition Charles Darwin” (ref. IW379503). The bronze material will patina a bit over time creating a sort of vintage/aged look. While some of these models are limited editions, IWC doesn’t claim all of them to be. But, expect that each of the “Edition” Aquatimer Chronograph models will see a limited production run over the next few years.
As you can see, IWC has offered a lot of “Aquatimer novelty” for 2014 and we are looking forward to getting a hands-on look at each of the new models and learning what the damage is going to be for those pieces we want to own the most. Stay tuned for more in a few weeks. iwc.com