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Introduced in 1967 with the reference 812AD, the IWC Aquatimer marked the Schaffhausen manufacture’s decisive entry into the realm of professional underwater instruments. Engineered to withstand extreme aquatic environments while retaining the brand’s quintessential engineering elegance, the Aquatimer eschewed the conventional external rotating bezel in favor of an internal rotating chapter ring operated via a dedicated second crown. This innovative compressor case architecture protected the elapsed-time bezel from accidental underwater manipulation and abrasive marine debris.
In the early 1970s, IWC modernized the line with the reference R816AD (later cataloged as Ref. 1816), transitioning to a bold, cushion-shaped tonneau case that captured the progressive industrial design of the decade. Measuring approximately 40 mm across, the case provided superior wrist presence and enhanced structural integrity. Among the various executions produced, dials finished in saturated, non-traditional tones were manufactured in remarkably small quantities. The example presented here features the exceedingly rare original red/burgundy dial, an extraordinary visual departure from utilitarian black and silver variants.
Powering the reference R816AD is the renowned in-house IWC Caliber 8541B. Widely considered one of the finest automatic movements of the 20th century, it incorporates Albert Pellaton’s legendary pawl-winding mechanism, an integrated date display with rapid date advance, and comprehensive shock protection.
Preserved in true mint collector condition, this 1976 example is fitted with its original IWC stainless steel "Beads of Rice" bracelet produced by prestigious casemaker and bracelet manufacturer Gay Frères. Both original cross-hatched crowns retain their correct IWC "Fish" hallmarks, signifying factory water resistance. Surviving as a complete and documented Full Set with its original box and papers, this piece represents one of the most significant and pristine vintage IWC dive references available on the international market.
