The Ingenieur Perpetual Calendar 41 in stainless steel marks a significant milestone as the first stainless steel model combining Gérald Genta's iconic Ingenieur design with Kurt Klaus' crown-operated perpetual calendar. This sophisticated timepiece features a 41mm stainless steel case and integrated bracelet, complemented by a striking blue dial with rhodium-plated hands and appliques.
The perpetual calendar functions display date, day, month, leap year, and moon phase, which can all be adjusted via the crown, a feature IWC has mastered for over two decades. The moon phase display achieves remarkable accuracy thanks to advanced gearing, deviating just one day after 577.5 years. The 9 o'clock subdial combines day-of-week indication with a leap year counter.
The distinctive "Grid" pattern dial, composed of fine lines and squares, creates depth and beautifully plays with light. Calendar subdials receive a sunray finish with refined "azurage" on their outer edges. For nighttime legibility, the rhodium-plated markers and hands are filled with Super-LumiNova.
The H-link bracelet connects seamlessly to the case through a middle-link attachment, offering exceptional comfort with its butterfly clasp. Five functional screws secure Genta's signature bezel design. The watch showcases meticulous finishing with alternating satin and polished surfaces across the case and bezel. At the same time, the bracelet features satin-finished H-links with polished edges and fully polished middle links and case back ring.
The integrated H-link bracelet deserves special mention, as it contours naturally to the wrist's shape. The butterfly clasp distributes pressure evenly, eliminating pressure points during extended wear. This thoughtful construction allows the substantial stainless steel case to sit lower and more flush against the wrist.
Powering this masterpiece is the in-house 82600 calibre featuring a Pellaton winding system with ceramic components for exceptional durability, generating a 60-hour power reserve. The movement is elegantly finished with circular graining, Geneva stripes and blued screws, visible through the sapphire case back.
The Ingenieur Perpetual Calendar 41 ref. IW344903in steel offers an exceptional wearing experience that balances its horological complexity with remarkable comfort. On the wrist, the watch exhibits a confident presence without being overwhelming—its 41 mm diameter strikes the perfect balance between statement piece and everyday wearability—absolutely one of our favorite watches at Watches & Wonders 2025.
The watch's satisfying heft communicates quality without feeling burdensome. The weight distribution is particularly well-executed, with the bracelet providing just enough counterbalance to the case to prevent sliding or awkward positioning.
When viewed from different angles throughout the day, the play of light across the contrasting finishes—from the polished bezel screws to the satin-brushed H-links—creates a dynamic visual experience. The blue dial with its distinctive grid pattern seems to shift in intensity as it catches the light, making the watch feel like a living instrument rather than a static object. And for the price, a lot, a lot of watch.
Sticker Price USD 36,900. For more info on IWC click here.
