• In the late 1970s, the Bundeswehr, or German Federal Armed Forces, commissioned IWC to develop a highly durable and technically advanced service watch. IWC was well-suited for the task, having already pioneered innovations in anti-magnetic technology and titanium construction, which are two essential features for military divers, particularly mine-clearance units such as the Kampfschwimmer, or Combat Swimmers. These elite frogmen required watches that would not trigger sensitive underwater mines, prompting the development of a fully anti-magnetic model.

• This resulted in the release of six references: 3314, 3319, 3501, 3509, 3519, and 3529, as seen in the present example. In 1984, the first Ocean BUND reference 3501 was delivered to the Bundeswehr. Each reference was assigned to a specific unit. For instance, references 3314 and 3319, fitted with quartz movements, were used by the Combat Swimmers. References 3501, 3509, and 3529, equipped with automatic movements, were issued to the Attack Divers. A rare batch of 50 anti-magnetic reference 3519 watches was designated for the Mine Divers. Despite development of ref. 3519 beginning in the early 1980s, the watches were only delivered to the Mine Divers in 1988.

• IWC engineers and Alexander Porsche, who designed the iconic Porshe 911 automobile, collaborated and developed the Ocean BUND watches based on military specifications. These watches were water-resistant to 300 metres, featured flat sapphire crystals, and were designed with high legibility in mind, including orange-red framed minute hands, which differentiate itself from the civilian version. Though never widely issued as standard military gear, they were marked with a 13-digit NATO Stock Number (NSN) on the case backs and straps. This underscores their military-grade engineering and authenticity.

• Unlike the tritium variant, which features a red “3H” marking on the dial, the present 1996 example uses Super-LumiNova for luminescence. It is complemented by a third-generation titanium bracelet, specifically designed to enhance durability. Notably, the present ref. 3529 example is accompanied by its original BUND box, complete with the NATO stock number printed on it, adding historical authenticity and collector appeal.

• Today, the IWC Ocean BUND is regarded as a milestone in the evolution of professional dive watches. With an estimated 150 automatic and 200 quartz units produced, many remain elusive, possibly still in service. Their design marked a turning point in 1980s watchmaking, blending military-grade engineering with modern aesthetics. As noted by IWC Museum curator David Seyffer, these watches continue to fascinate collectors and enthusiasts alike. Not only for their technical achievements but also for the stories they carry from a unique chapter in horological and military history.