Reference 666, IWC's very first Ingenieur (German or French for engineer) model, was introduced in 1955. Although the design featured a modest round case with a simple dial, it was the first anti-magnetic wristwatch targeted at professionals exposed to high magnetic fields, such as engineers, technicians, chemists, pilots and doctors. Acting like a Faraday shield that blocks electromagnetic influences, an inner case of soft iron effectively protected the movement against magnetic field disturbances by preventing sensitive components from becoming magnetised, which would affect the watch's accuracy.
A project was launched in 1969 create a more robust Ingenieur by integrating a shock protection system, as well as a new case to emphasise the watch's technical character. The first prototypes were produced in 1970 and 1971, but none met the manufacture's strict quality standards after failing its rigorous impact tests. IWC then looked beyond the manufacture for a designer.
At the time, Gérald Genta was a freelance watch designer, who had earlier created a steel chronograph for the Schaffhausen-based manufacturer in 1967, but the project was never realised. IWC then commissioned Genta with the creation of the new Ingenieur, and in 1974, the Genevan designer delivered sketches of a striking new watch.
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Denne historien er fra April 2023-utgaven av Prestige Singapore.
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Sailing Into A Dream
Scenes from the fantasy feature Game of Thrones come to life in the otherworldly landscapes of the Arctic Circle.
Here Come The Sun Seats
Italian furniture has long held the crown for blending luxurious, sophisticated design with impeccable craftsmanship.
ABSOLUMENT FAB
France's premier fair for fine-art and antiques returns for its third edition inside its new home in the Grand Palais.
Through the Director's Lens
Filmmaker JIA ZHANGKE and his protégé RAFAEL MANUEL share their perspectives on life, cinema and their current projects.
THE CUTTING EDGE
Having long played quiet supporting roles in the gem industry, gem cutters are finally having their day in the sun. Four acclaimed independent master gem cutters share more about their love of the craft and the creation of their best pieces.
Spheres of Power
Following up on the gold- and titanium-focused Tiffany Titan by Pharrell Williams launch collection, the superstar now turns to pearls for a softer, but no less striking, second act.
Horological Masterpieces Reimagined
Beyond the wrist, these timekeepers transcend all traditional boundaries.
WILD IMAGINATION
Cartier's latest category-spanning Panthère de Cartier novelties showcase the endless ways in which the panther continues to inspire.
READY FOR ACTION
The latest watch to come from the celebrated Richard Mille and McLaren partnership looks set to be another trailblazing timepiece.
THE RIGHT ANGLES
Twenty-five years after the launch of its last new collection, Twenty-4, Patek Philippe introduces the Cubitus range.