IWC Schaffhausen Cal. 89

IWC Schaffhausen Cal. 89

The late 1940s and early 1950s were the golden era of the Swiss dress watch—and no manufacture embodies this period better than IWC Schaffhausen with its legendary Calibre 89, launched in 1946. To this day, the Cal. 89 is regarded as one of the finest and most robust hand-wound movements in watchmaking history: it has a classic construction, an impressive power reserve, and is exceptionally reliable, making it a favorite among watchmakers. This is the very movement at the heart of this watch. Movement number 1266396 dates the watch to the production period from 1948 to 1950.

The 34 mm Staybrite steel case—IWC’s high-quality stainless steel of the time, featuring the famous fish emblem stamped into the case back—is a pure testament to post-war elegance. Onion-shaped lugs, a gently domed snap-back case back, and balanced proportions make the watch an understated yet unmistakably refined companion on the wrist. The silver-plated dial features applied rose-gold markers and numerals at the cardinal positions of 12, 3, 6, and 9. These are complemented by slender rose-gold hands and the characteristic italic lettering “International Watch Co. Schaffhausen”. A dial that shimmers warmly in the light and embodies the spirit of the classic Calatrava era.

The watch is presented in honest vintage condition: the dial shows fine, age-appropriate traces of patina around the outer edge, lending character to this timepiece without affecting its legibility or elegance. The case has been cared for throughout its long life and displays the typical fine signs of wear and polishing. The inside of the case back is marked with the Staybrite signature and IWC fish hallmark. The watch is currently fitted with a brown leather strap and its original IWC-signed pin buckle—a harmonious setup for a piece of Schaffhausen watchmaking craftsmanship that has reliably performed its duty for more than 75 years.

Brand/Model: IWC Schaffhausen, dress watch with Calibre 89

Reference: No reference number visible on the case back (typical for the era); case number 1224226, movement number 1266396

Diameter: approx. 34 mm (excluding crown)

Case: Staybrite stainless steel

Strap: Brown leather strap with original IWC-signed pin buckle

Movement: IWC Calibre 89, hand-wound, movement number 1266396 (production approx. 1948–1950)

Dial: Silver-plated, applied rose-gold Arabic numerals (12/3/6/9) and rose-gold baton markers, rose-gold hands, central seconds

Functions: Hours, minutes, central seconds

Water resistance: Vintage (not tested)

Condition: Good, honest vintage condition. Dial with age-appropriate patina around the outer edge. Case with fine signs of wear and polishing. Movement running.

Scope of delivery: Watch on leather strap with IWC pin buckle