IWC’s Der Fliegerchronograph wristwatch has had a renaissance in the past few years as collectors become aware of its historical importance and its overall attractive and classic appeal. Released in 1994 and remaining in production until 1998, only 999 examples of this timepiece were made. The watch was the brain child of Günter Blümlein, who in the 1980s and 1990s, was integral to the turnaround and re-building of the IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, and A. Lange & Söhne brands. A visionary, he transformed them through strong managerial skills and attention to detail and form, producing some of the most innovative and trendsetting watches available on the market. The use of unconventional materials for watch cases had been seen in the past, for example, Rado’s use of tungsten carbide in the 1960s, However, IWC’s use of zirconium oxide ceramic in the early 1990s as a case material was unprecedented.

The reference 3705 has a masculine, sexy appeal and is today a very rare modern chronograph. The fully compressed and moulded ceramic case is sharp and has a bold look with its dark grey hue. It is a watch that harks back to the traditional past of horology but was made with cutting edge technology and materials of the era in which it was produced. The present example is offered in excellent condition and is enhanced by the accompanying international guarantee and presentation box. The watch remains in factory-original condition with few signs of wear since it was first manufactured in 1997. The Fliegerchronograph is noteworthy for its early and innovative use of ceramic, and its size and durability make it a perfect watch to be worn and enjoyed.