Antique 1916 WWI German Navy Officer Presentation IWC Chronometer Silver Watch

Offered for your consideration is a highly historic, triple-signed antique pocket watch produced by the prestigious International Watch Co. (IWC) of Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Dating to approximately 1916, this substantial 51mm solid silver timepiece was originally presented as an award or service watch for an officer in the Kaiserliche Marine (Imperial German Navy) during the height of the First World War.

The Imperial German Navy relied heavily on precision chronometers for crucial naval navigation and tactical coordination. The presence of a high-grade IWC movement underscores the necessity for absolute accuracy at sea. The case back features a superb, detailed engraving of an Imperial German battleship, making this an exceptional piece of military and horological history.

Detailed Specifications & Condition Report

The Dial & Hands

• Dial Surface: The watch features a pristine white enamel dial in excellent condition.

• Timekeeping: The hours are clearly designated by elegant, elongated black Roman numerals. A recessed subsidiary seconds dial is positioned at the 6 o’clock mark.

• Signature: The dial is formally signed “International Watch Co.” in a flowing script, with “SCHAFFHAUSEN” printed just below in a crisp, block font.

• Hands: The time is indicated by a set of incredibly fine, blued steel hands.

The Silver Presentation Case

• Dimensions & Materials: The substantial case measures 51mm in diameter and is crafted from solid 0.800 fine silver.

• Case Back Engraving: The rear of the case is deeply and masterfully engraved with a dramatic depiction of a German Kaiserliche Marine dreadnought battleship cutting through the waves. The title “Kaiserliche Marine” is engraved below the ship in traditional Gothic script (Fraktur).

• Inner Case Marks: The polished interior of the case back is fully hallmarked. It bears the “0.800” silver purity mark, the German Imperial silver hallmark (the crescent moon and crown), and the prominent oval “IWC” manufacturer’s stamp. It is also stamped with the serial number “215859”.

The Precision Chronometer Movement

• Mechanics: Protecting the heart of this watch is a smooth inner dust cover. Beneath it lies a pristine, high-grade mechanical manual-wind movement featuring a classic Swiss lever escapement.

• Finishing: The movement exhibits the superlative finishing characteristic of early 20th-century IWC calibers. The frosted gilt brass bridge plates provide a striking visual contrast against the polished steel winding wheels, screws, and ruby jewels. The movement is clearly stamped with the IWC hallmark and the serial number “199537”.

• Operating Condition: This exceptional military presentation timepiece remains in perfect working order. The manual-wind movement runs strongly and maintains highly accurate time.

Terms of Sale This antique military presentation timepiece is a functioning piece of world naval history and is sold exactly as photographed. Please review all high-resolution images carefully, as they form a definitive part of the description.