The history of this IWC Schaffhausen Tribute to 3705
The House of IWC Schaffhausen has always maintained an intimate link with high-tech aviation. In the 1990s, the watchmaking market discovered a daring new style with the release of the legendary Black Flieger in 1994. This original aviator's chronograph was the Manufacture's very first model to incorporate black zirconium oxide ceramic for its casing. Shunned at the time by a public unaccustomed to dark technical instruments, it quickly disappeared from shop windows before establishing itself as an absolute legend among collectors. To honor this legacy, the brand has unveiled this strictly limited edition of one thousand worldwide. Carrying the reference IW387905, it faithfully reproduces the aesthetics of its predecessor while propelling it into the era of high-tech materiality. A striking tribute.
Case, caliber and bracelet of this Tribute to 3705
The 41 mm-diameter case features an innovative material patented by the Manufacture. Ceratanium beautifully fuses the structural lightness of titanium with the scratch resistance of ceramic. This absolutely matte black armor frames a dark dial devoid of stray reflections. The sword-shaped hands and superb white Arabic numerals are illuminated with formidable clarity thanks to the luminescent material. Beneath the solid caseback engraved with the edition number beats the self-winding caliber 69380. This superb column-wheel chronograph movement is assembled from 231 components and guarantees a 46-hour power reserve. Clocked at a frequency of 28800 vibrations per hour, its mechanics are protected from magnetic fields by an internal soft-iron case. This 6-bar water-resistant unit comes with an olive-green textile strap lined with leather and fastened with a Ceratanium buckle.
Why this IWC Schaffhausen watch
Acquiring this pre-owned IWC watch represents a priceless opportunity for military aesthetes. Reserved for a privileged few, this series was immediately sold out at the time of its exclusive digital launch. Its reappearance on the second-hand market provides an opportunity to capture a timepiece that blends a captivating historical narrative with true metallurgical prowess. Watchmaking enthusiasts will particularly appreciate the formidable discretion of its stealthy profile, which conceals finishes of the highest nobility. The harmonious integration of the double aperture displaying the day and date enriches the daily experience. This is a work for purists seeking the perfect balance between traditional flying and modern alloys.
Delivered contents and condition
Originally acquired in March 2021, this exceptional watch comes to you in beautiful condition. The complex matte case retains its original appearance intact with no visible alterations. The sturdy technical bracelet shows minute signs of suppleness, attesting to measured and respectful wear. The original presentation box elegantly gives way to a precious courtesy case signed The Swiss Collector. The founding documentation remains perfectly complete, including the specific instruction manual and the international warranty card sealed by the Manufacture.
Warranty and delivery
Enrolled in the official My IWC extension program, the timepiece enjoys absolute peace of mind with a Manufacture warranty running until March 2029. To crown this acquisition, the watch can be hand-delivered in one of our private salons in Switzerland. In the event of shipment, our logistics deploy an armored shipment ensuring full transport under documentary security escort.
* Very good condition - watch already worn. Slight signs of external wear on bracelet. Ceratanium case in excellent overall condition.