A new addition to the revived Ingenieur introduced two years ago, the Ingenieur Automatic 35 is just 35 mm in diameter and 9.44 mm thick, giving it a more streamlined profile than its 40 mm sibling. The size brings to mind the Ingenieur ref. 3521 of the 1990s that was just 34 mm wide.

Beyond its compact dimensions, it preserves the hallmarks of the Ingenieur design, including a brushed bezel and case with polished chamfers, and matching integrated bracelet. The new Ingenieur is offered in stainless steel, with a choice of black or white dials, or in 18k red gold.

Initial thoughts

The modern-day Ingenieur 40 is a relatively faithful homage to the 1970s Ingenieur SL designed by Gerald Genta. The new 35 mm model retains the same styling but harks back to the smaller, 1990s model, filling out the Ingenieur line with a smaller offering.

The smaller model has the same strengths and weaknesses as its larger cousin: an appealing historical design, solid execution of the case and bracelet, but a middling in-house movement matched with a relatively high retail price of US$9,950 in stainless steel and US$37,500 in red gold.

Compact profile

With a 35 mm diameter and a thickness of 9.44 mm, the new Ingenieur is what would be described as mid size by modern standards. Beyond the smaller form factor, it remains nearly identical to its 40 mm counterpart.

It’s offered in stainless steel or 5N red gold with a matching bracelet. Notably, the gold version features a gold-plated dial with solid gold applied indices.

Distinguishing it from the 40 mm version that has a solid back, the 35 mm model features a sapphire back, providing a view of the cal. 47110.

It’s one of IWC’s entry-level in-house movements but nonetheless dressed up modestly with circular striping and a gold-plated oscillating weight. It operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), and offers a 42-hour power reserve.

Key facts and price

IWC Ingenieur Automatic 35
Ref. IW324903 (18k 5N red gold)
Ref. IW324901 (stainless steel with silver dial)
Ref. IW324906 (stainless steel with black dial)

Diameter: 35 mm
Height: 9.4 mm
Material: Steel; 18k 5N red gold
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 47110
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, and date
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 42 hours

Strap: Matching integrated bracelet

Limited edition: No
Availability: Now at IWC boutiques and retailers
Price: US$9,950 for stainless steel, and US$37,500 for 5N red gold

For more, visit iwc.com.