If you thought that there was nothing left to discover in the world of vintage watches, you're mistaken.
The 1980s and 1990s remains to be time period that is abundant in sleeper neo-vintage pieces; especially from IWC. One example is the Aquatimer GST Ref IW353601; a titanium diver with an integrated titanium bracelet and a push-to-turn locking bezel — a configuration that's certainly suited for modern sports watch tastes. Another example is the Pilot's Chronograph Ref 3741 with its nearly perfect case proportions and awesome mesh bracelet.
The Novecento, eponymously named and designed with the twentieth-century in mind remains as one of the more under-the-radar IWC's with incredible value considering it's wearability, high complication and precious metal construction.
This piece features a 27mm platinum case with a screw-down 'onion' crown, sapphire crystal and a silver dial that arranges its perpetual calendar displays beautifully. Starting at 3 o'clock and moving clockwise, the dial presents a moonphase aperture followed by a date subsidiary register at 6 o'clock, month subsidiary register at 9 o'clock and day subsidiary register at 12 o'clock. The theme symmetry continues with the leap year indicator balanced by the IWC logo.
Outfitted on a signed black alligator leather strap with a signed platinum pin buckle, this piece is powered by the self-winding Calibre 3206 perpetual calendar movement.
Considering its precious metal case, high-complication and obscure nature, this IWC Novecento offers a ton value and an opportunity to own a perpetual calendar without losing your shirt!