The 1960s brought upheaval as mechanical watches were overshadowed by affordable yet accurate quartz technology. In response, a group of watch companies invented the Swiss quartz “Beta 21” in 1968, ten times more accurate than a chronometer.

To showcase this, IWC released a bold new design defined by a unique six-sided case. They called this the Da Vinci. It is debated whether Gerald Genta was involved in the Da Vinci since he was engaged in the Ingenieur at the same time. But it seems likely as his trademark design motifs — bold geometry, angular cases and integrated bracelets were all evident in the early releases.

The 1969 releases were largely prototypes, distinguished by the lack of the “SL” marking on the dials. This Da Vinci Line “pre-SL” prototype, of which only a few hundred are said to have been manufactured, released in 1969-1970.

At first, Beta 21 was used but replaced by well constructed, ultra-thin, mechanical movements such as the Calibre 423 showcased here. With a hand-brushed dial, a large 32mm steel case and the original 23mm integrated “Genta” bracelet, it shares design cues with the legendary Patek Philippe Nautilus and also the IWC Ingenieur, introduced years later. One can also say that the popular Bvlgari Octo Finissimo is inspired by this watch.

There are none with original bracelets available on the market making this one rare watch.

CONDITION: Excellent
FEATURES: Steel, Very Rare, Limited Production, Ultra Thin Manual wind movement, Integrated Steel Bracelet
MOVEMENT: IWC caliber 423, manual winding, 19,800 vibrations/hour (2.75 Hz), 17 Jewels
DIMENSIONS: 32 x 27.5 mm (without crown), 7.3mm thickness
REFERENCE: 2579

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