IWC Schaffhausen makes some of the most recognisable watches in Swiss watchmaking: the clean, oversized Portugieser and the instrument-like Pilot's Watches. We have 470 IWC watches in stock, from $2,110 to $105,555, with a median price of $6,995. This guide explains the collections and how to choose.
A short history
IWC, the International Watch Company, was founded in 1868 by the American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones, who set up in Schaffhausen, in German-speaking Switzerland, to combine American production methods with Swiss craftsmanship. That makes IWC one of the few major Swiss brands based in the north-east of the country rather than in Geneva or the Jura.
Its signature collections came later: the Portugieser in 1939, after two Portuguese importers asked for a wristwatch as accurate as a marine chronometer; the Big Pilot's Watch in 1940; the Ingenieur, an antimagnetic watch, in 1955; the Aquatimer dive watch in 1967; and the Portofino in 1984. IWC has been part of the Richemont group since 2000.
The collections
Portugieser. Large, slim cases, railway-track minute scales and Arabic numerals: IWC's most elegant line, from the simple automatic to the Portugieser Chronograph and perpetual calendars. In stock: 70, from $3,830.
Pilot's Watches. Black dials, large luminous numerals and the triangle at 12 o'clock, descended from IWC's military watches. The family includes the Mark XX, the Pilot's Chronograph, the Big Pilot's Watch and the ceramic Top Gun models. In stock: 50 Pilot's Watches, plus 20 Big Pilots and 22 Pilot's Chronographs.
Portofino. IWC's classic dress watch: round case, slim lugs, simple dial. A good-value way into the brand. In stock: 63, from $2,110.
Ingenieur. Built to resist magnetism, with a soft-iron inner case in its classic versions. The 1976 Ingenieur SL by Gérald Genta introduced the integrated bracelet and screwed bezel that inspired the current model. In stock: 38.
Aquatimer. IWC's dive watch, with an external-internal rotating bezel on recent models. In stock: 22.
What IWC costs
Our IWC prices run from $2,110 to $105,555. New or unworn pieces start at $3,515 and pre-owned at $2,110. The Portofino and the simpler Pilot's Watches are the entry points; Portugieser chronographs sit in the middle; perpetual calendars and limited editions are at the top. Live prices by model are in our watch price index.
References we stock most
IWC references start with IW followed by six digits that identify the model and its version.
- IW388108 — 7 in stock, from $5,940
- IW328903 — 6 in stock, from $8,755
- IW389105 — 6 in stock, from $7,745
- IW329301 — 5 in stock, from $4,400
Portugieser or Pilot's Watch?
They are IWC's two pillars and very different watches. The Portugieser is a dress watch you can wear daily; the Pilot's Watch is a tool watch with maximum legibility. We compare them in detail in Portugieser vs Pilot's Watch.
What to check on a pre-owned IWC
- Size on the wrist. Many IWCs are large: the Portugieser starts around 40 mm and the Big Pilot is 46 mm. Check the case and lug-to-lug size with our size guide.
- Ceramic cases. Top Gun models in ceramic do not scratch easily but can chip if knocked; inspect the edges.
- Crystal and bezel. Pilot's watches have domed sapphire crystals; check for chips at the edge.
- Papers and service. IWC offers an extended warranty when a watch is registered with the brand; papers make that easier. Ask when it was last serviced.
- Serial number. It should match the warranty card. Our pre-owned checklist covers the rest.
Frequently asked questions
Where is IWC made?
In Schaffhausen, in northern Switzerland, where the company has been based since it was founded in 1868 by the American Florentine Ariosto Jones.
Which IWC is the best first watch?
The Portofino and the Pilot's Watch Mark XX are the usual entry points: classic, versatile and the most affordable IWCs. Our IWCs start at $2,110.
Why is it called the Portugieser?
Because two Portuguese importers asked IWC in the late 1930s for a large, precise wristwatch. IWC used a pocket-watch movement to make it, which explains the generous size.
Are IWC watches good value pre-owned?
Usually yes: pre-owned IWCs often sell well below retail. Compare live prices on our IWC page.
