IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42 iN Ceramic
Unveiled at Watches and Wonders 2025, the IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42 IW338903 marks a bold evolution of the Ingenieur line with its first-ever full ceramic execution. Crafted entirely from black zirconium oxide ceramic, including the case, bezel, crown, and bracelet, this new reference brings IWC’s decades-long expertise with advanced materials into the spotlight. The design remains faithful to the angular, Gérald Genta-inspired architecture of the modern Ingenieur while showcasing a stealthy, monochromatic look anchored by the signature “Grid” dial. Robust, scratch-resistant, and strikingly contemporary, this ceramic Ingenieur redefines the line’s technical appeal with a highly wearable profile.
The case measuring 42mm in diameter and 11.6mm in thickness is entirely constructed from black zirconium oxide ceramic. This marks the first fully ceramic iteration of the Ingenieur, showcasing IWC’s long-standing expertise with the material since pioneering its use in wristwatches in 1986. The bezel, case ring, caseback ring, crown, and crown guards are all rendered in ceramic, with functional screws visibly securing the bezel and caseback, preserving the rugged yet refined proportions of the Ingenieur design.
On the reverse, a tinted sapphire crystal is pressed directly into the ceramic case, revealing the IWC-manufactured 82110 calibre beneath. The absence of an internal titanium clamping ring in this construction allows the watch to maintain its seamless all-ceramic exterior while ensuring structural integrity.
The transparent caseback retains the watch’s sculptural geometry and provides a dark, almost stealthy view of the movement within.
It comes equipped with a screw-in ceramic crown and integrated crown guards, adding protection and cohesion to the angular case profile. The inner structure still incorporates a titanium ring to secure the movement and accommodate the case screws. Water-resistance can reach up to 100 meters (330 feet).
Time is exhibited on a matte black dial adorned with IWC’s signature “Grid” pattern, an arrangement of finely machined lines and squares that adds both visual structure and textural depth. The monochromatic layout reinforces the watch’s stealthy aesthetic, with blackened hour markers and hands that subtly catch the light without breaking the overall tone. The dial remains minimal and legible, in keeping with the tool-watch character of the Ingenieur line.There are no sub-dials or additional complications present, keeping the focus squarely on time-only functionality. The design emphasizes symmetry and clarity, with applied indices marking the hours and a clean outer minute track providing precision.
The date window is omitted, resulting in a perfectly balanced dial that complements the integrated case and bracelet design. This pared-down approach reflects the watch’s modern, high-tech sensibility.The hands and hour markers are filled with Super-LumiNova, offering effective low-light visibility without disrupting the watch’s dark aesthetic. The luminous treatment ensures functionality remains uncompromised, while the grid texture and subtle black finishing emphasize the watch’s architectural design roots.
IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42
The “IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42” (Ref#: IW338903) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 82110 with 22 jewels, 181 components, and 28,800 vph. It features IWC’s bidirectional Pellaton winding system, equipped with zirconium oxide ceramic components to minimize wear and enhance durability. Power reserve can last up to 60 hours, when fully wound.
Mounted on the watch is an integrated black ceramic bracelet, secured to the wrist by a folding clasp. The bracelet connects to the case via its middle links, ensuring a seamless flow across the wrist. Satin-brushed and sandblasted surfaces dominate, with subtle polished accents along the edges that enhance the bracelet’s angular geometry. Lightweight, hypoallergenic, and impervious to temperature fluctuations, the ceramic construction offers exceptional comfort and reinforces the watch’s high-tech, all-black aesthetic.
For more up to date information visit the official IWC Schaffhausen website here.
MSRP: $19,500.00 USD

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