More ‘obscure’ IWCs

The camera clock of the RAF Interceptor English Electric Lightning Weapons/RADAR is definitely obscure

Hello Mr. Russell...i dont think your lovely c.83 lots are unique, they are certainly very uncommon. 

https://goldammer.me/products/iwc-sub-second-salmon

I think i've still got a two-piece case variant with the same lug somewhere, though i've little idea if that would deem it to be the same ref or if they were all simply flyers ( with yet no ref allocated) to ascertain what the post ww buyers were fancying. I would'nt be suprised to discover the returing watch had been down to s. america and back.

Thanks for showing.

Hello Cromagnonman...high quality dial on your 2606..lovely.

Hi Catherine,

Thanks for your comments and the link.

The watch shown is indeed the one in my post.

I apparently acquired it from the person who bought it from Goldammer.

Regards,

T

Aloha all - I acquired this cool prototype 5003 dial from another long term member of this group and it’s pictured in a generic case with a stock 6498 movement. Markus examined it at a Hong Kong GTG and said that Mr. Kern nixed the “Jet Age” themed dial in favor of the “common” production dial.  I’ve been trying to source a real IWC case for years to complete this project and alternatively I’ve considered swapping out the original dial just for fun…

This thread is truly a remarkable collection of hidden gems in the world of IWC watches! It’s fascinating to see so many unique and lesser-known pieces shared by fellow enthusiasts. Nelson, your WEMPE regulator is an excellent way to kick off the discussion, and the back view is equally impressive. These rare pieces, often overshadowed by more mainstream models, offer a deep dive into the brand’s rich history and craftsmanship.

Philipp’s Portugieser Automatic Edition from the Beijing International Film Festival 2015 is another stunning addition. Limited editions like this are always intriguing because they capture a specific moment in time and often come with design elements that set them apart from the standard models. Mark’s Porsche Design Compass Watch is another outstanding piece—it’s incredible how IWC has ventured into innovative and functional designs like this, blending horology with practicality.

The discussion takes an even more interesting turn with Clepsydra’s BOAC Mk 11 and Tonny’s Ref. 3710. The BOAC Mk 11 is a true pilot’s watch with a legacy rooted in aviation, and the Ref. 3710 is particularly noteworthy as a numbered limited edition that never made it into an official catalog. Discovering watches like these, which have flown under the radar, is what makes collecting IWC so exciting.

Perhaps one of the most intriguing contributions is from Cromagnonman, who shared the story of the Calibre 1001—an IWC movement that was supposed to mark the brand’s 100th anniversary but never made it to series production. The fact that only a few prototypes were created and then allegedly scrapped adds an air of mystery to its existence. Were they truly all destroyed, or could a few still be out there? This is the kind of horological mystery that keeps collectors constantly searching and uncovering hidden gems.

Beyond just the watches, this thread highlights the passion and knowledge that make the IWC community so special. Whether it’s a rare diving watch, a limited edition pilot’s model, or an apprentice’s journeyman piece, each of these timepieces tells a story. I’m looking forward to seeing even more obscure and fascinating IWCs shared here!

Not that rare, but special to me…

Amazing Pallweber wristwatch Anthony :o)