Just when we thought IWC had hit its stride with its Ingenieur relaunch two years ago, they’ve gone and raised the bar again. And now, with the introduction of the Ingenieur Automatic 35, they might just have outdone themselves.
Let’s rewind for a moment. Ingenieur, the word used in German and French for ‘engineer’, began its story in the 1950s, originally crafted as a tribute to post-war engineers—those unsung innovators quietly reshaping civilian life through technology. But it was the 1976 Ingenieur SL, dreamed up by Gérald Genta, that gave the collection its unmistakable integrated-bracelet stride. That industrial yet refined look became the benchmark, and IWC has been cleverly reworking that DNA ever since.
Fast forward to this year, and we are presented with the 35mm edition. The smaller case size isn’t just a ‘ladies’ version’ or a scaled-down afterthought. We’re saying this is purpose-built with impeccable proportions, ergonomic comfort, and all the visual punch of the 40mm flagship—but with a fresh sense of wearability that speaks to a growing market. By introducing the Ingenieur in a 35mm size, they’re making a bold move into a space long overlooked, catering to both women and men who prefer a more compact fit. It’s a clever recalibration that not only broadens the appeal of the Ingenieur but also gives IWC a new, more versatile identity for today’s consumers.
The new model comes in three iterations. Two in stainless steel—one with a crisp silver-plated dial, another in classic black—and one standout in IWC’s signature 18-carat 5N gold that suits, quite possibly, every skin tone. And yes, it’s been spotted on the wrists of Kerry Condon, Simone Ashley, and Ines de Ramon at the F1 movie premiere. It has a quiet confidence that we love.
From the bezel’s five functional screws to the integrated bracelet’s satin-finished H-links and polished centre links, the finishing here is nothing short of obsessive. The dial continues the theme with its trademark “Grid” pattern, with those tiny lines and squares adding texture and depth. Indices are applied by hand, filled with Super-LumiNova®, and framed by a beautifully detailed date window. Flip it over, and you’re greeted by a sapphire caseback showcasing the 47110 calibre movement, complete with Geneva stripes, circular graining, and a gold-plated rotor. All of this is housed in a case that’s just 9.44mm thick—yet still delivers 100 metres of water resistance.
This is, quite frankly, IWC at its most considered. The Ingenieur 35 isn’t just about making something smaller, but getting it exactly right. With the Ingenieur marking its 70th anniversary this year, it feels like the perfect moment to reintroduce this classic to a new generation of collectors. Is it their best version yet? We’re tempted to say yes. And if this is the direction IWC is headed in, we’re more than happy to follow.
READ MORE
2025 GPHG Awards: See All of the Nominees This Year
The New Neutral: Why Pistachio Green Is the Hottest Watch Colour of the Year
Taylor Swift’s Engagement Watch Is Just as Significant as Her Ring