Ingeneur Automatic 3 piece steel case

Can anyone provide any details of how the solid steel fixed bezel (with 5 bore holes in it) is attached firmly to the case? Can these bezels be removed during servicing?

Thanks Phil

On the current models, it is a bayonet-type fitting, which is why the holes align. These bezels can be removed during servicing with a special tool.

Michael,

Thanks for info on the fixed bezel on the automatic mission earth. One last question. Regarding the 5 bore holes in the bezel - are they purely aethetic/symbolic or do they have a functional role, ie, in using a tool to clamp the bezel in the holes to help remove it during servicing?

Hi Phil,
Modern Ingenieurs are actually 2 piece cases,caseback & middle, with the bezel counted as an external component as it is not required to seal the case.
Bore hole bezels were introduced with the first Genta designed Ingenieurs from the late 1970's. The cases were 3 piece with the bezel holding the crystal and being screwed down onto the case middle.
A tool to screw down the bezel using the 5 bore holes was made but it was soon realised that the torque required to seal the case could deform the holes while closing. The tool was withdrawn and rubber tools used for all screw down models since. The holes remained as an important part of the asthetic and are even on the Ingenieur pocket watch.
Many IWC fans asked if one of the holes can be aligned to 12, hence the development, as Michael has said,of current Ingenieur bezels being bayonet fit. This is acheived by inserting a special tool with 5 protuding steel pegs into the 5 bore holes in the bezel and then turning until the bezel is locked/unlocked. Therefore the holes have a very necessary functional role and one is always at 12.

Thank you for this comprehensive feedback. Phil

I have am Ingenieur Mission Earth. It weighs about 178g on a rubber strap.

Does anyone know the separate weight (g) of the soft iron case fitted in the case?

Thanks

Phil