[Watch Selection Journey] I realized that if I choose a model with a see-through back, I can admire the IWC movement at any time.

While searching for an IWC watch, I suddenly realized that if I chose a model with a see-through back, I would be able to view the brand's movement at any time. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to see watches with a sapphire crystal case back, also known as a see-through back, or a "see-through back," which allows the movement to be viewed. So, I decided to check out a model with a see-through back that would allow me to enjoy the level of IWC's robust technology with my own eyes.

Choose an IWC by case back

Mechanical watch case specifications are broadly divided into two types: see-through back and solid back. Learn about the appeal of each and use them as a guide when choosing an IWC watch.

See-through case back that allows you to enjoy the beauty of the mechanism

A see-through case back is a glass case back that allows you to see inside the watch, and is often made of sapphire crystal.

The greatest appeal of a see-through caseback is that it allows you to appreciate the mechanical beauty of the movement. By revealing the intricate movements and beautiful decorations inside the watch, the luxury watch becomes even more appealing.

Not all IWC watches have see-through backs, but some collections do, and they are very popular.

Durable solid back

Case backs other than see-through are collectively called solid backs, and their appeal lies in their durability and airtightness.

While many luxury brands use see-through cases, Rolex, for example, uses solid cases for most of its models, likely because they have an image of simplicity and sturdiness, and place importance on functionality and practicality.

Among solid casebacks, there is also a type called a screw-down caseback, which is often used in diver's watches as it increases the internal airtightness.

IWC's technical capabilities are worth noting

The see-through caseback, which deliberately shows the beauty of the movement and decoration inside the watch, is also proof of the brand's high technical capabilities. Let's take a look at IWC's watchmaking spirit from a technical perspective.

Careful finishing by skilled craftsmen

IWC is a manufacture that produces everything in-house, from the movements to the final product. Each watch is carefully crafted by skilled craftsmen.

The process of fitting the dial and hands, as well as the movement casing, is not high-tech: the entire process is carried out meticulously by hand.

In the case finishing department, skilled craftsmen polish the cases to a gleaming mirror finish. Thorough craftsmanship has been IWC's unwavering philosophy since its founding.

Thorough quality control

The guarantee of excellent quality is another element that demonstrates IWC's technical expertise. A rigorous testing and inspection program ensures thorough quality control.

Automatic rotors undergo fatigue tests that can last up to 3000 hours to test for wear, as well as shock and magnetic field strength tests to simulate product lifespan.

Only watches that pass these rigorous tests and are guaranteed to be of high quality are commercialized and delivered to users.

Three carefully selected IWC models with see-through backs

Some IWC flagship models feature see-through backs. Let's take a look at some of IWC's see-through back models, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of their machinery.

Portuguese Chronograph IW371605

The Portugieser Chronograph, which was revamped in 2020, is a white dial version of the Portugieser Chronograph, IWC's flagship collection. It features a neat and elegant design inherited from the original model.

The movement is the in-house automatic chronograph movement, Cal. 69355. You can enjoy the beauty of the machine, showing its intricate movement, through the see-through caseback.

The Portugieser Chronograph is available in several variations, and we recommend choosing one based on the combination of dial color and case material.

Portofino Hand-Wound Moon Phase IW516401

While a typical moon phase display loses an error of one day every three years, IWC has succeeded in developing a "perpetual moon phase" display that loses an error of one day every 577.5 years.

The IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Moon Phase is a model equipped with this ultra-precise moon phase display. A blue night sky and golden moon and stars are accented at the 12 o'clock position on the white dial.

The Cal. 59800, developed specifically for the moon phase movement, is a highly durable movement that will run for approximately eight days when fully wound.

Big Pilot's Watch 43 IW329301

The Big Pilot's Watch 43 is a scaled-down version of the Big Pilot's Watch, which featured a large 46.2mm case. It now has a more approachable 43mm case.

Its cockpit instrument design, oversized crown, and calfskin strap with four rivets are inspired by military observation watches from the 1940s.

The movement is equipped with the Cal. 82100, a Pellaton automatic winding mechanism reinforced with ceramic parts, boasting a power reserve of approximately 60 hours.

The joy of holding the beauty of an IWC's inner workings in your hands

There are two types of back covers for mechanical watches: see-through backs and solid backs. See-through backs allow you to see the internal mechanism.

IWC offers models with see-through backs in its popular collections, such as the Portugieser and Portofino. Choose one with its unique appeal and enjoy the delicate beauty of its movement.