We are happy to present this 1960s dress watch today because we believe that IWC is still relatively unknown in the vintage market (compared to other brands like Omega or Rolex). Often found in larger water-resistant cases, these straightforward, automatic IWC dress watches offer a wealth of design options. With a Gay Frères bracelet, a clean overall design, and much more, the reference 648A we have here hits a lot of high notes.
 
The dial design is the first thing you notice when you pick up the watch. Simple yet exquisite, the silver sunburst finish is in keeping with what IWC enjoyed doing at the time. The brand's preferred design elements at the moment appear to be the sophisticated script IWC logo at twelve and "AUTOMATIC" at six. This text's size makes it possible for the rest of the design to speak for itself. Additionally, the baton markers that are applied at each hour are precisely the right size to draw attention without overpowering the dial. Every design decision made by a company like IWC in the 1960s is surgical, as demonstrated by this watch.
 
The movement must also be featured. The brand's exclusive Pellaton automatic winding system, created by Albert Pellaton in 1950, serves as the basis for the caliber 853 ticking inside. Because it made it possible to transfer energy from the bi-directional rotor to the mainspring—a far more effective solution than other self-winding movements of the time—this new self-winding architecture was revolutionary for its time. Some contemporary IWC creations still use variations of the Pellaton self-winding system, which was developed nearly 70 years ago.
Alongside this example is a stainless steel bracelet made by Gay Frères and signed by the IWC. The bracelet's clasp is dated to the second quarter of 1967, which corresponds nicely with the case serial number. Like most GF-made bracelets from this era, the bracelet is incredibly comfortable on the wrist and truly completes the watch's appearance.