Body Piercing

I responded to a posting yesterday (1949 Cal.89) and commented about how I liked the look of 'pierced luggs' and wished they were used on some current models.

So..can anyone comment on a bit of history of the pierced lugg ? I'm curious if there was a specific design purpose. I was thinking that maybe springbar construction was the influence for piercing or perhaps jeweler/watchmaker tools dictated the addition of those holes. Anyway, hoping members have some knowledge and background about this vintage look.

Design specific or just for aesthetics, I really think it's a classy detail. Anyone with me on this?

Andy

I've not heard that term until yesterday. I've always supposed that drilling the lugs was a cheaper and easier manufacturing technique.

Although it's subjective,to me a fine watch looks less finished with outside holes. Although I haven't checked, my recollection is that high-end watches of the era, like Vacheron or Patek, seldom or never had this. IWC's of that era like cal 83s or 89s were considered mid-priced.

Hi Michael,

FYI... I heard the term "pierced luggs" from three watchmakers here in California. I assumed that since it was being used by them, it was the correct verbiage.

Thought you might like to know.

Andy

Hello Andy,

The original concept of pierced lugs was to do with rigidity and simplicity in removing the strap. On certain models of the IWC Mark IX (1936-1944), these watches would have had pierced lugs which were carried over onto the IWC Mark XI (circa. 1948).

However, if compared side by side with the Jaeger LeCoultre Mark XI this watch does not have the pierced lugs.

If I'm not mistaken all Portugese Ref. 325 were all pierced lugs in stainless steel. As a tribute Patek Philippe launched Ref.5208 during Basel World 2011, a Triple Complication in platinum with pierced lugs.

I think the pierced lugs found on my 1949 IWC Caliber 89 makes it look like the Portuguese Ref.325 distinguished smaller brother.

Regards,
Simon