IWC Ceramic Fliegerchronograph

Why We Love It The IWC Reference 3705 may very well be the absolute definition of Neo-Vintage perfection. Combining the traditional function-forward elements of pilot's watch design with a sensibly sized 39mm case, robust automatic movement, Tritium luminous indices and hands, and the groundbreaking first application of ceramic casing material for a sports watch, the 3705 was born a classic when it was introduced in 1994. To say that it was ahead of its time is most certainly an understatement. Since its introduction, ceramic cases have been used extensively by IWC and other manufactures, but generally in (much) larger case sizes. As such, the 3705 started as something of a cult classic and has found widespread appreciation in recent years, with values doubling or even tripling across the board.  This past December, Phillips auctioned an early piece owned by industry titan Gunter Blümlein as part of their STYLED sale, achieving an astonishing $53,750. With an estimated 999 pieces produced in a four year period, and an ever-increasing popularity in the collector community, the IWC 3705 is in our minds a true modern classic with authentic historical significance, the perfect blend of traditional design and cutting edge materials that launched one of the world's most respected Swiss manufactures into the modern era. The Story For this one we think we best leave it to the Master Storyteller and Horological Magus Jack Forster of HODINKEE, who wrote THIS great history of the 3705 back in 2016. Enjoy!