IWC C.67 Pocket Watch (c. 1938)

One of the great pleasures of collecting vintage pocket watches is discovering just how much artistry and mechanical beauty existed outside the wristwatch world, and few pieces illustrate that better than this exemplary IWC Schaffhausen Calibre 67.

A NOTE FROM THE CURATOR

Produced during one of the most fascinating eras of Swiss watchmaking, this particular IWC Cal. 67 combines a movement dating to 1937 with a beautifully preserved case from 1938, placing it squarely within the pre-war / wartime period that collectors find especially compelling today.

Among dedicated pocket watch enthusiasts, the Calibre 67 has long held a strong reputation thanks to its elegant proportions, robust architecture, and beautifully executed large-format movement design. But more recently, collectors from the broader vintage wristwatch world have begun turning their attention toward exceptional pocket watches such as this, appreciating them not only as historical objects, but as some of the purest expressions of traditional mechanical watchmaking. The appeal is easy to understand: oversized and beautifully finished movements, ornate case work, and expansive dials that showcase a level of detail often impossible to appreciate in smaller wristwatches.

The second generation Cal. 67 was produced between 1933 and 1958 (with a brief interruption from 1938–1940), with approximately 23,400 examples manufactured. Measuring 41mm in diameter and just 5.5mm thick, the movement was offered in both 15 and 16 jewel configurations and remains one of IWC’s most admired pocket watch calibres from the era.

What makes this example especially attractive is its condition.

The watch presents in truly spectacular overall shape for a piece approaching 90 years old. The ornate case remains remarkably crisp, retaining strong definition throughout, while the rare decorated case-back adds an additional layer of charm and collectibility seldom found in surviving examples today.

The stunning two-tone dial is exceptionally well-preserved, showing only very minor spotting consistent with age, while remaining remarkably clean overall. The blued steel hands are equally impressive, vibrant, clean, and free from tarnishing or notable blemishes.

Taken together, this is exactly the kind of Cal. 67 that seasoned collectors hope to find: an honest, beautifully preserved wartime-era example that showcases why vintage IWC pocket watches continue to gain appreciation among collectors worldwide.

Happy hunting,

— Brent

Condition Report & Contents

The watch is presented in superb vintage condition.

The ornate case remains crisp and well-defined, showing remarkably little wear for its age, while the rare decorated caseback remains especially well-preserved. The crystal shows a few light scratches, but nothing overly distracting. The two-tone dial is exceptionally well-preserved, displaying only minor spotting, visible through a loupe or through in the macro photos enclosed. The blued steel hands remain clean and vibrant, free from notable tarnishing or oxidation.

The movement remails pristine, clean, and well-maintained. Service history is unknown, but the watch winds smoothly, and runs well. A service may be considered at the buyer’s discretion for long-term optimization and more accurate timekeeping.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Brand: IWC Schaffhausen
• Model: Calibre 67 Pocket Watch
• Movement: IWC Cal. 67 manual wind
• Movement Year: 1937
• Case Year: 1938
• Case Diameter: 49.3mm
• Case Thickness: 10.7mm
• Dial: Two-tone silver-toned dial
• Hands: Blued steel hands
• Caseback: Rare decorated caseback