IWC electronic with Gay Free bracelet and Box

I

IWC’s experimentation with electronic movements began in the 1960s as the Swiss brand sought to innovate beyond traditional mechanical watches. In 1970, IWC introduced the Caliber 5000, a quartz movement developed to compete with the growing quartz revolution. This movement was notable for its precision and was used in models like the IWC Megaquartz 15000, which was one of the most accurate quartz watches of its time. IWC also produced electronic tuning fork movements in the early 1970s, similar to Bulova’s Accutron, as part of their efforts to integrate modern technology into their timepieces.

Though IWC’s early electronic watches gained attention for their accuracy, the brand never fully embraced the quartz or electronic revolution, remaining more focused on mechanical movements. The Caliber 5000 was a response to the demand for reliable, high-precision timekeeping, but it was eventually phased out as quartz movements became more ubiquitous and affordable. Despite this, IWC continued to produce a limited number of electronic watches through the late 1970s and early 1980s, but it was clear the brand’s long-term focus would remain on traditional mechanical horology.

This all paired with a gayfrere bracelet, the most famous bracelet procured of the 20th century

BEZEL MATERIAL
stainless steel
BRACELET
IWC Gay frère bracelet
CALIBER

electronic

CASE DIMENSIONS

37 mm with 18mm lugs
CASE MATERIAL
stainless steel
CLASP
buckle
DIAL
blue, mint condition

GLASS
Plexi crystal, original, small scratches present
INDEX
stick
MODEL
International watch company/ electronic

MOVEMENT

electronic, licensed by Bulova

New battery fitted

With box, no papers