At SIHH 2009, IWC unveiled a new Aquatimer family that will include 5 models ranging in size from 44 to 46 mm: the Deep Two which follows up the Deep One, three chronographs including a special Galapagos Islands model, and the Aquatimer Automatic 2000. All models feature a bracelet quick-change system that requires no tools. At the end of the article, you can click to view technical specs for each new Aquatimer model. Let’s go under the waves and explore the new Aquatimer family…
Aquatimer Deep Two
The diver’s watch with a mechanical depth gauge makes a return after ten years in the form of the Aquatimer Deep Two, pressure-resistant to 12 bar. Like its predecessor, the GST Deep One from 1999, it shows not only the actual dive depth, but also the maximum depth reached during a particular dive. It thus doubles as a complete second safety system alongside the dive computer. Whereas the GST Deep One was able to measure water depths down to 45 meters, the Aquatimer Deep Two features a semi-circular indicator on the dial, which records depths down to 50 meters. Its pressure measurement system is contained in a second large crown on the left side of the case. The water pressure acts directly on a membrane inside this crown and forces a pin into the interior of the case. This movement actuates a lever mechanism connected to the measurement hands. However, only the raised tips of the hands at the level of the dial can be seen to move over the indicator scale through a semi-circular slot in the dial. The hands in this case are led around the movement. This solution avoids the need for the path of the arbors to pass through the movement. The depth indicator (blue) moves over the white measuring field as the depth of water increases or decreases. The maximum depth indicator (red) always re mains at the greatest depth reached. It can be re leased by a button underneath the depth-gauge sensor crown on the left side of the case. The Aquatimer Deep Two is the only member of the family with a case diameter of 46mm. Priced at $14,900 on strap and $15,900 on bracelet. Here’s an image of the Deep Two. Click it to view a larger version…
Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands
Featuring the same 44mm case size and the same automatic drive mechanism (79320 caliber movement) as the Aquatimer Chronograph, the Aquatimer Chronograph Edition Galapagos Islands is the ambassador of a new collaboration between IWC and the Charles Darwin Foundation with its presence on the Galapagos Islands. The matte black stainless steel case, completely coated with vulcanized rubber, the black dial and the strongly contrasting white indications together with the black rubber strap make the watch, which is pressure resistant to 12 bar, a strong statement on the wrist.
Aquatimer Chronograph
Featuring attributes of the new Aquatimer family such as the external rotating bezel and the bracelet quick change system, the Aquatimer Chronograph is available in stainless steel with either a stainless steel bracelet or a rubber strap. There are two dial variants: Aquatimer signature colors of black and yellow, or blue and coral red. The watch in its 44 mm diameter case is pressure resistant to 12 bar. The 79320 caliber chronograph movement records aggregate times up to 12 hours on rhodium plated inner dials. The Chronograph provides day and date displays. Priced at $6500. Click the image below to view a larger version…
Aquatimer Chronograph in Red Gold
Of the diver’s chronographs, the Aquatimer Chronograph in red gold stands out particularly in both visual and horological terms. It is the first watch in the Aquatimer family to be equipped with the IWC manufactured 89360 calibre, the chronograph movement developed and built in its entirety by IWC. It is distinguished by its flyback function and the two-hand display of the long stop times on a single inner dial. The 89360 caliber movement, wound by the IWC double pawl automatic winding system, can also be observed through the sapphire glass back. This watch, which is pressure-resistant to 12 bar, is only available in a 44-mm diameter red gold case with a black rubber strap. MSRP $19,900.
Aquatimer Automatic 2000
The Automatic 2000 holds the water-resistance record in the Aquatimer family with its tested pressure resistance of 200 bar. This handsome model features a white dial with orange or white numerals on a white or dark blue background on the rotating bezel and an orange hour hand. A second variant has a black dial and a black external rotating bezel with the familiar luminous yellow 15-minute segment of the previous Aquatimer in stainless steel. The color yellow is also used for the minute hand, which indicates the dive time, to ensure a clear distinction. It is powered by the 30110 calibre automatic movement. The Aquatimer Automatic 2000 is available with an optional stainless steel bracelet or a rubber strap.
Here is a family shot…
You can click here to see the specifications for these watches, including weights and case dimensions.
