Hi everyone,
What do you think are the differences between caliber 79420 in the 2012 pilots doppel 3778
And
Caliber 79230 in the 2012 Ingenieur titanium doppel 3765.
Aren't both of these are based on Valjoux 7750, because of their 79XXX number? So what are the differences since the functionality is the same?
It is interesting that IWC should have two different calibers with the same functions in two new launches this year!
Any inputs on this will be greatly appreciated!
Best regards
Sumit
Thanks for raising the question Sumit, I hadn't realized the 3778 has a 79420 and would also be interested to know the difference.
I would need to double-check on all possible differences, but the Ingenieur Doppel really was a 2011 model, and through 2011 IWC used gold-plated finishing on the rattrapante module. Starting with the 2012 models they changed to rhodium plating throughout, to be consistent in looks with other chrono movements. I suspect that's the only change.
Note that the TopGun Doppel (3799) and the Spitfire Doppel (3718) also had the 79230 calibre - with the 3799 at least (not sure about the Spitfire) dating back to 2007 making the 79230 a 5 year old calibre - it may have just been time for a refresh :)
EDIT - looks like the 79230 dated back to 1996, used in the 3713 Pilot Doppel, 3715 GST Chrono-Rattrapante, 3786 Pilots Doppel Ceramic, 3799 TopGun Doppel and the Ingenier -
"Gold plated with IWC’s surface-finishing.
TRIOVIS regulation-system.
Decorated, assembled and regulated in Schaffhausen. " - from iwcforum.com :)
Cheers,
Ben
Further, could it be that the 79230 was a kit based delivery for further modification from IWC and the 79420 is a fully assembled delivery in line with the policy changes from ETA ?
I would rather doubt this, since the rattrapante mechanism here is something IWC developed, patented, and independently produces. In fact, one of the specialist watchmaking areas at IWC assembles that (and also does perpetuals and the Deep Two).
On the time for a refresh, no --it was a policy change about consistent decoration. I talked last September to the watchmaker in charge of Doppel assembly.
Thanks a lot guys for all this information. Since it's the decoration that has changed for the IWC rattrapante module, I guess I can breathe a little easy while selecting the ceramic 3799!
Really appreciate the help!
Best regards
Sumit