A Closer Look at IWC Schaffhausen History

Founder and Origins of IWC Schaffhausen

• Founder: Florentine Ariosto Jones
• Year Established: 1868
• Initial Location: Switzerland
• First Watch: A Pocket Watch
• Official Website: www.iwc.com

In the world of luxury horology, the name IWC Schaffhausen stands tall as a symbol of Swiss excellence. Renowned for its precision engineering, timeless design, and legacy of innovation, IWC has captivated collectors and watch enthusiasts for over 150 years. Yet behind each meticulously crafted timepiece lies a rich and fascinating story—one rooted in a unique blend of American vision and Swiss craftsmanship.

This article aims to take you on a journey through time, uncovering the full history of IWC Schaffhausen, from its humble beginnings to the global icon it has become today. Get ready to explore the brand’s origins, the key figures who shaped it, the pioneering innovations it introduced, and the challenges it overcame to attain legendary status.

The Dream of a Visionary from Boston: Florentine Ariosto Jones

The story of IWC Schaffhausen begins with a visionary from Boston, USA: Florentine Ariosto Jones. Born in 1841, Jones was a watchmaker and engineer with an ambitious goal—to revolutionize the watchmaking industry in the 19th century. Before founding IWC, Jones worked as a manager at the E. Howard Watch and Clock Company in Boston, one of America’s leading watch manufacturers. His experience there gave him a deep understanding of modern industrial production methods being used in the United States at the time.

Jones had a clear vision: to combine the advanced efficiency of American industrial technology with the artisanal craftsmanship of renowned Swiss watchmakers. At the time, the Swiss watch industry was largely a cottage industry, with watchmakers working independently in small workshops.

Jones saw tremendous potential in centralizing production and applying more efficient manufacturing techniques to produce high-quality watches on a larger scale. His ambitions extended beyond production—he also aimed to create high-end watches specifically for the American market. This early focus revealed a clear business strategy, likely based on his understanding of American consumer preferences and the perceived value of Swiss-made quality.

Jones’s desire to merge American industrial efficiency with Swiss craftsmanship was a unique approach for its time. It reflected a strategic understanding of the global watchmaking landscape and a determination to create outstanding products through synergy. His prior experience in a leading American watch company equipped him with the knowledge of industrial production techniques that he intended to implement in Switzerland—an essential foundation for his ambitious plan, especially given the contrast with the cottage industry still prevalent in parts of Switzerland.

Schaffhausen: The Ideal Location by the Rhine River

After extensive travels throughout Switzerland in search of the ideal location for his venture, Jones ultimately chose Schaffhausen, a city located on the banks of the Rhine River in eastern Switzerland. His choice was far from random. One of the main reasons was the abundant hydropower available from the Rhine River.

Jones envisioned a centralized, industrialized watch production facility, and the river’s energy provided a sustainable and reliable power source to drive his factory’s machinery. This decision demonstrated a practical and forward-thinking mindset, utilizing available natural resources to support efficient manufacturing. It also underscored the importance of technological infrastructure in Jones’s plan.

In addition, Schaffhausen had a strong, albeit less central, horological tradition compared to the French-speaking regions of Switzerland, which were better known for watchmaking. The presence of skilled labor, along with the local government’s interest in attracting entrepreneurs and stimulating the economy by offering facilities and affordable hydropower, played a major role in Jones’s decision. In the 1850s,

Schaffhausen faced the risk of being left behind during the Industrial Era, and local industrialist Heinrich Moser had already built the city’s first hydroelectric plant, paving the way for further industrial development. Moser met F.A. Jones in Le Locle and expressed strong support for his plans.

The backing of local industrial leaders like Moser was crucial to Jones’s ability to bring his vision to life. Choosing Schaffhausen—far from the traditional Swiss watchmaking hubs—may also have been a strategic advantage, providing more autonomy and less direct competition in IWC’s early years.

Early Collaboration and Founding Vision

In 1868, together with a friend and fellow American watchmaker, Charles Kidder, Florentine Ariosto Jones officially established what would become the International Watch Company (IWC) in Schaffhausen. His partnership with Kidder reflected a collaborative approach, drawing on shared expertise to bring his vision to life. Starting a company was a significant undertaking, and having a partner likely offered both practical and moral support, along with complementary skills. During the 1868–1869 period, the company was launched—though one document lists its original name as F.A. Jones & Co. Jones’s primary goal was to produce high-quality watch movements for export to the United States, where a parallel company run by his American partners would handle casing and marketing. This initial focus on movement production for the U.S. market reflected a well-defined strategy and suggested a separation of responsibilities, likely aimed at managing costs and leveraging expertise in different geographic regions.

The Jones Calibre: IWC’s First Quality Benchmark

The first movement produced by IWC was named the “Jones calibre” in honor of its visionary founder. This movement quickly set the standard for IWC’s reputation, known for its exceptional quality and robust construction. Naming the movement after the founder was a strategic move, creating a personal association between the brand’s identity and its commitment to excellence. These early movements were built with sturdy construction and exemplified the best of American watchmaking systems: precision engineering paired with skilled handcraftsmanship.

A key feature of the Jones calibre was the use of a three-quarter plate. Unlike most Swiss movements at the time, which employed separate bridges, the Jones calibre used a single plate covering most of the movement. This offered greater stability and simplified the production of small parts.

The three-quarter plate was a hallmark of the Jones calibre, distinguishing it from typical Swiss designs and showcasing the influence of American manufacturing systems. This structural difference likely contributed to its durability and ease of maintenance, aligning with America’s emphasis on practical engineering. Many of these movements also featured long, thin index regulators for precise adjustment—a characteristic still associated with Jones-era movements today.

The Digital Pocket Watch Era: The Revolutionary Pallweber System

In 1885, IWC once again demonstrated its innovative spirit with the introduction of the Pallweber pocket watch. This breakthrough featured a revolutionary digital display for hours and minutes—well ahead of its time. The Pallweber system was based on a patent by Austrian inventor Josef Pallweber. Instead of traditional hands, the watch displayed hours and minutes as large numerals on rotating discs, visible through windows on the dial. IWC’s adoption of the Pallweber system demonstrated an early commitment to technological advancement and a willingness to explore unconventional time display methods. While the technology was not immediately successful commercially, it highlighted IWC’s forward-thinking approach and desire to stand out in the market through innovation.

Despite producing around 20,000 units, the Pallweber pocket watch had a short market lifespan and was discontinued by 1890. However, its historical significance and unique design have made it a highly sought-after collector’s item today. This shows how innovations that may not succeed commercially at first can gain recognition and value over time, particularly in the collector’s market. In 2018, to mark its 150th anniversary, IWC paid tribute to this early innovation by launching the IWC Tribute to Pallweber Edition—its first wristwatch with a digital hour display.

The First Steps Toward Wristwatches: Creations for Women and Men

In line with evolving fashion trends and the growing demand for more practical timekeeping, IWC became one of the first companies to produce wristwatches. These early models appeared at the end of the 19th century, around 1899—well before wristwatches became popular among men. IWC’s first wristwatches often used small ladies’ pocket watch movements, such as the calibre 64, housed in smaller cases fitted with lugs for straps. The calibre 63 was also used in other early wristwatch models.

IWC’s early move into the wristwatch market demonstrated its ability to adapt to changing trends and its foresight in understanding the future of personal timekeeping. At a time when pocket watches still dominated, recognizing the potential of wristwatches signaled both innovation and market awareness. The use of small pocket watch movements for early wristwatches reflected a practical approach to developing this new form factor. Leveraging existing smaller calibres was a logical first step before designing movements specifically tailored for wristwatches.

Johannes Rauschenbach: Continuing the Legacy

Although Florentine Ariosto Jones was the founder of IWC, the company’s history was also heavily influenced by the Rauschenbach family. In 1880, after Jones returned to the United States due to financial difficulties, the Rauschenbach family, industrialists from Schaffhausen, took over the company. Johannes Rauschenbach-Vogel was the first family member to acquire IWC. The acquisition marked a turning point, providing the company with the stability and leadership needed to overcome its early financial troubles. This transition from American to Swiss ownership was crucial for IWC’s long-term establishment in Schaffhausen.

Unfortunately, Johannes Rauschenbach-Vogel passed away just a year later in 1881. Leadership then passed to his 25-year-old son, Johannes Rauschenbach-Schenk. Under his leadership, IWC continued to grow and build its reputation for quality and innovation. The Rauschenbach family owned IWC for four generations, highlighting their deep commitment to the brand and their significant influence on its development. This continued family ownership likely fostered a sense of tradition and long-term vision for the company. Johannes Rauschenbach-Schenk successfully ran the company until his death in 1905.

Ernst Jakob Homberger: Leading Through Difficult Times

After the death of Johannes Rauschenbach-Schenk in 1905, IWC’s leadership transitioned to his son-in-law, Ernst Jakob Homberger. Homberger, an industrialist from Schaffhausen, played a vital role in guiding the company through turbulent times, including the economic crisis of the 1930s. His leadership was instrumental in navigating IWC through the early 20th-century economic challenges, demonstrating resilience and strategic decision-making. This period was marked by significant global economic instability, and Homberger’s ability to steer IWC through it showcased his strong business acumen. In 1929, Homberger became the sole owner of IWC after buying out his brother-in-law, Carl Gustav Jung.

Under Homberger’s leadership, IWC saw the birth of two iconic watch collections still highly regarded today: the Pilot’s Watches and the Portugieser. The launch of the Pilot’s Watches collection in 1936, inspired by the aviation interests of his two sons, marked the beginning of IWC’s legacy in crafting timepieces for aviators. Then, in 1939, at the request of two Portuguese importers, the Portugieser collection was born, known for its large size and marine chronometer-like accuracy. The launch of these iconic collections under Homberger’s leadership cemented IWC’s reputation in niche watch segments. These collections have become synonymous with the IWC brand, reflecting the lasting impact of Homberger’s product development vision.

Albert Pellaton: Timeless Technical Innovation

In 1944, IWC welcomed Albert Pellaton, a key figure who would leave an indelible mark on the company’s technical history. Joining as Technical Director, Pellaton was responsible for several crucial technical innovations that remain relevant today. His arrival marked a new era of technical innovation for IWC, leading to the development of key movements and technologies that are still significant. His inventions, particularly the Pellaton winding system and anti-magnetic inner case, reflected a deep understanding of horological engineering and a commitment to enhancing watch performance.

One of Pellaton’s most famous contributions was the development of the highly accurate caliber 89 movement. This movement, featuring a central seconds hand, became known for its reliability and formed the foundation for many future IWC watches. Additionally, Pellaton developed the highly efficient Pellaton automatic winding system, a bidirectional pawl-winding mechanism patented by IWC in 1950.

Another key innovation was the introduction of the soft iron inner case in the Pilot’s Watch Mark 11 in 1948. This feature provided outstanding protection against magnetic fields, which became increasingly important with the rise of electronic technology in daily life and in aircraft cockpits. The development of the anti-magnetic inner case was a crucial response to the growing prevalence of magnetic fields, showcasing IWC’s proactive approach to real-world challenges and their commitment to reliable timekeeping in various environments.

Other Key Figures in IWC’s History

IWC’s history has also been shaped by other influential figures. Hans Ernst Homberger, son of Ernst Jakob Homberger, became IWC’s last private owner in 1955 and continued the company’s modernization until his death in 1986. Under his leadership, IWC launched the Ingenieur collection in 1955, known for its magnetic resistance. This era also saw IWC’s involvement in the development of the Beta 21 quartz movement in the late 1960s.

The involvement of various key figures throughout IWC’s history demonstrates the brand’s evolving leadership and expertise, with each contributing to its growth and innovation. From Jones’ entrepreneurial spirit to Pellaton’s technical genius and later design collaborations, each leader and innovator played a crucial role in shaping IWC’s identity.

In 1978, IWC partnered with renowned designer Ferdinand A. Porsche, resulting in several innovative watches, including the first timepiece with an integrated compass. This partnership lasted for two decades and further strengthened IWC’s reputation for bold design and innovation. Then, in the 1980s, IWC became a pioneer in using materials like titanium and ceramic in watchmaking, setting it apart from its competitors. In 1985,

IWC launched the Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar, a mechanical masterpiece designed by master watchmaker Kurt Klaus. This watch featured a perpetual calendar mechanically programmed until the year 2499 and could be adjusted simply by turning the crown. IWC’s involvement in developing the Beta 21 quartz movement reflects their willingness to embrace new technologies, even as they remained committed to mechanical watchmaking. This demonstrates a pragmatic approach to the evolving watch industry landscape—exploring new possibilities while preserving core values.

Key Figures Summary Table

Name	Active Period at IWC	Main Role / Contributions
Florentine Ariosto Jones	1868–1876	Founder of IWC; envisioned combining American production techniques with Swiss craftsmanship; introduced Jones caliber.
Johannes Rauschenbach-Vogel	1880–1881	Acquired IWC after Jones’ financial troubles.
Johannes Rauschenbach-Schenk	1881–1905	Continued his father’s leadership; successfully managed the company.
Ernst Jakob Homberger	1905–1955	Son-in-law of Rauschenbach-Schenk; led through economic crises; launched Pilot’s Watches and Portugieser collections.
Albert Pellaton	1944–1966	Technical Director; key innovations including caliber 89, Pellaton winding system, anti-magnetic inner case.
Hans Ernst Homberger	1955–1978	Last private owner; modernized company; involved in Beta 21 quartz movement development.
Kurt Klaus	1980s–1990s	Master watchmaker; created Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar.

Identifying IWC’s First Watch

Although IWC is known for its pilot watches and the Portugieser collection, identifying their very first watch requires analyzing various sources of information. Historical records indicate that one of the earliest known watches to leave IWC’s factory in Schaffhausen was in 1899. This watch was a ladies’ wristwatch using a small women’s pocket watch movement, caliber 64, placed in a smaller case with lugs for a wrist strap. Caliber 63 was also used in some of these early wristwatches.

However, it is important to note that some sources also reference the “Special Pilot’s Watch” launched in 1936 as IWC’s first watch purpose-built for a specific function—aviation. There may be a distinction between the first watch produced by IWC and the first watch specifically designed for a certain application. The 1899 model was adapted from a pocket watch movement, while the 1936 Pilot’s Watch was engineered from the ground up for pilots. This nuance is important in accurately representing IWC’s history.

The Birth of the Pilot’s Watches Collection: A Legacy in Aviation

Regardless of the debate around the first watch, there is no denying that the launch of the “Special Pilot’s Watch” in 1936 marked the beginning of IWC’s enduring legacy in aviation timepieces. This watch was designed to meet the extreme demands of civilian aviation at the time, featuring shatterproof glass, a rotating bezel with an arrow index for tracking flight time, anti-magnetic escapement, and luminous hands and numerals for maximum readability in low-light conditions.

The Pilot’s Watches collection became a cornerstone of IWC’s identity, cementing their reputation for producing durable and reliable tool watches. The specific features tailored for pilots highlight IWC’s focus on functionality and precision in demanding environments.

After the “Special Pilot’s Watch,” IWC continued to develop timepieces for aviators, producing other iconic models such as the Big Pilot’s Watch in 1940 and the Mark 11 in 1948. The Mark 11, developed for the British Royal Air Force, became a standard military timepiece due to its accuracy, durability, and magnetic resistance thanks to its soft iron inner case. The Mark 11’s long service life with the British Royal Air Force underscores its outstanding quality and durability, further solidifying IWC’s status as a premier manufacturer of military-grade watches.

The Portugieser Collection: Maritime Precision on the Wrist

The Portugieser collection has a unique origin. In the late 1930s, two importers from Portugal approached IWC with a request for large wristwatches that could offer marine chronometer-level accuracy. To meet this request, IWC watchmakers in Schaffhausen decided to use the highly precise caliber 74 pocket watch movement and install it in a wristwatch case. The large size of the pocket watch movement resulted in the Portugieser’s unusually large case size for that time. The Portugieser collection exemplifies IWC’s ability to meet specific customer demands and translate maritime chronometer precision into a wristwatch format. It highlights their engineering capabilities and responsiveness to market needs.

The iconic design of the Portugieser—with its large, clean dial, elegant Arabic numerals, and “chemin de fer” minute track—quickly became a favorite among watch enthusiasts. This collection has become one of the most renowned and respected in IWC’s portfolio, known for its classic elegance and mechanical precision. The enduring popularity and iconic status of the Portugieser collection demonstrate the timeless appeal of its design and its significance in IWC’s history. Its continued presence in IWC’s lineup for decades proves the success of its design and the strength of the brand’s recognition.

Expanding Other Collections: Ingenieur, Aquatimer, Da Vinci, and Portofino

Over time, IWC continued to expand its offerings, introducing other important watch lines that have become icons in their own right. The Ingenieur collection, first launched in 1955, was designed for engineers and scientists, featuring high resistance to magnetic fields thanks to its soft iron inner case.

The Aquatimer collection, introduced in 1967, marked IWC’s entry into the dive watch segment, with models offering unprecedented water resistance and featuring rotating bezels for tracking dive times. The diversification of IWC’s collections reflects their ability to cater to a wide range of tastes and needs in the luxury watch market. By offering watches for different purposes and with varying aesthetics, IWC broadened its appeal and solidified its position as a major player in the industry.

The Da Vinci collection, which debuted in 1969, is known for its technical innovations and complex designs, often featuring complications like perpetual calendars and chronographs. The Portofino collection, launched in 1984, exudes timeless elegance with its simple and classic design.

Throughout its history, IWC has also pioneered the use of innovative materials such as titanium (first used in 1978) and ceramic (first used in 1986) for its watch cases. The use of these advanced materials has become a hallmark of IWC watches, setting them apart from many other luxury watch brands. This focus on material science has enabled IWC to create watches that are both durable and aesthetically distinctive.

Overcoming Obstacles in the Early Days

The early days of IWC were far from smooth. Although Florentine Ariosto Jones was a visionary, he faced numerous challenges—including financial difficulties, high import tariffs, and technical issues with factory machinery. The costs of establishing the factory and training staff proved to be much higher than anticipated. Furthermore, Jones struggled to sell his watches in the American market due to the steep tariffs. IWC’s early years were marked by significant financial and operational hurdles, underscoring the risks of pioneering new industrial methods within a traditional industry. Jones’s ambitious plans encountered many setbacks, demonstrating that innovation does not always yield immediate success.

As a result, in 1876, the company went bankrupt, and Jones was forced to return to the United States. Nevertheless, the foundation he laid proved solid enough for the company to survive and eventually thrive under new ownership. This stands as a testament to the quality of his initial vision and the dedication of those who carried it forward. In 1880, the Rauschenbach family took over the company, marking the beginning of a new era for IWC.

Material Innovation: Titanium and Ceramic

IWC has long been recognized as a pioneer in material innovation within the watchmaking industry. In 1978, it became one of the first manufacturers to introduce titanium as a watch case material. Known for its strength and lightweight properties, titanium offered several advantages over traditional materials like stainless steel. IWC’s early adoption of titanium reflected its commitment to material innovation and its willingness to explore cutting-edge technologies in watchmaking. The material provided notable benefits in terms of durability, weight, and aesthetics, positioning IWC as a leader in this field.

Then in 1986, IWC once again made waves by introducing the first wristwatch with a black zirconium oxide ceramic case. Ceramic, celebrated for its exceptional hardness and scratch resistance, became a favored choice for watches requiring extreme durability. The use of advanced materials like these has become a hallmark of IWC timepieces, setting the brand apart from many other luxury watchmakers. This focus on material innovation has played a crucial role in shaping IWC’s unique brand identity and appeal to tech-savvy consumers.

Facing the Quartz Crisis and Making a Comeback

Like many Swiss watchmakers, IWC faced serious challenges during the quartz crisis of the 1970s and 1980s, when affordable electronic watches flooded the market. Many traditional watch companies struggled to survive amid these technological shifts. However, IWC took a strategic approach, choosing to stay committed to producing high-quality mechanical watches and complications. The company’s decision to remain faithful to mechanical watchmaking, rather than fully embracing quartz technology, turned out to be a wise long-term move. By focusing on its core expertise in mechanical engineering, IWC positioned itself to benefit from the resurgence of interest in traditional watchmaking in later years.

A major milestone in the revival of mechanical watches came with the launch of the Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar in 1985. This groundbreaking timepiece, featuring a mechanically programmed perpetual calendar accurate until the year 2499, showcased IWC’s technical prowess and marked a renaissance for complex mechanical watches in the industry. The launch of the Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar was a pivotal moment, demonstrating IWC’s technical excellence and symbolizing the rebirth of intricate mechanical timepieces in the world of horology.

Philosophy and Core Values that Endure

For over 150 years, IWC Schaffhausen has upheld a philosophy rooted in entrepreneurial spirit, exceptional craftsmanship, and technical innovation. The brand remains committed to producing timepieces of the highest quality, combining precision engineering with timeless design. IWC’s long-standing philosophy emphasizes the fusion of technical innovation with traditional watchmaking expertise, resulting in sophisticated and reliable timepieces. This consistent approach to watchmaking has been a key factor in the company’s success and lasting reputation.

IWC’s Contributions to the Watchmaking Industry

IWC has made significant contributions to the watchmaking industry. It has been a pioneer in material innovation, movement development, and watch design. IWC is widely recognized as a leading brand in the field of pilot’s watches and played a crucial role in popularizing the use of titanium and ceramic in watchmaking. Additionally, IWC has developed several important complications, including the perpetual calendar and split-seconds chronograph. The brand has made a lasting impact through its pioneering work across various areas, setting benchmarks for innovation and quality. These contributions have not only advanced IWC’s own legacy but have also inspired progress across the wider landscape of horology.

IWC in the Modern Era: Innovation and Sustainability

In the modern era, IWC continues to push the boundaries of innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development of new materials and technologies, such as Ceratanium®—a revolutionary material that combines the lightweight strength of titanium with the scratch resistance of ceramic. Furthermore, IWC has deepened its commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. The brand strives to source materials ethically and adopt environmentally friendly manufacturing practices. IWC’s focus on sustainability reflects a growing awareness of environmental and social responsibility within the luxury industry. This commitment not only aligns with contemporary values but also enhances the brand’s image and appeal to a more conscious customer base.

Year	Innovation	Brief Description
1868	Jones Caliber	IWC’s first watch movement, establishing the brand’s standard of quality.
1885	Pallweber System	A revolutionary digital pocket watch displaying hours and minutes on rotating discs.
1899	First Wristwatch	One of the first known IWC wristwatches, utilizing a ladies’ pocket watch movement.
1936	Special Pilot’s Watch	IWC’s first watch designed specifically for pilots, featuring a rotating bezel and anti-magnetic escapement.
1939	Portugieser Collection	A large wristwatch developed at the request of Portuguese importers, offering marine chronometer-level precision with a pocket watch movement. Its iconic design remains one of IWC’s most revered collections.
1978	Titanium Usage	IWC became one of the first manufacturers to use titanium for watch cases, offering superior strength and lightness.
1986	Ceramic Usage	IWC introduced the first watch with a black zirconium oxide ceramic case, renowned for its hardness and scratch resistance.
1985	Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar	A mechanical masterpiece featuring a perpetual calendar programmed until the year 2499, adjustable via the crown alone. Its launch marked a key milestone in the revival of mechanical watches after the quartz crisis.

IWC Schaffhausen – More Than Just Time

The story of IWC Schaffhausen is a remarkable tale of vision, innovation, and unwavering dedication to excellence. From its humble beginnings under the leadership of Florentine Ariosto Jones to its current status as one of the most respected luxury watchmakers in the world, IWC has left an indelible mark on the world of horology.

Through pioneering innovation, the contributions of key figures, and the resilience to overcome challenges, IWC Schaffhausen continues to inspire watch enthusiasts across the globe with timepieces that not only tell time—but tell a story.