1970's Porsche Design By Orfina Chronograph I Ref. 7176S "1 Mile" Rehaut
Released in the throes of the Quartz Revolution, this chronograph had a number of things going for it that helped set it apart from your conventional sport watch of the period. First, it's regarded as the first watch with a case to receive a blacked-out PVD coating, a trend that has become more and more popular as time passes. Second, the watch wasn't born from the hands of a traditional watchmaker, instead it came from the mind of Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, who founded his eponymous design studio in 1972, and released this watch soon after in collaboration with the Orfina watch brand. Later, Porsche Design would partner with IWC on the production of its watches, but its very first partner was Orfina, and today's example dates to the initial years of their partnership. This watch is also accompanied by its original presentation box, instruction manual, and a blank guarantee.
This Porsche Design by Orfina is in overall good, honest condition. The case and bracelet have a nice, consistent worn look. Occasionally, when we come across these early black-PVD watches in mint condition, it can be difficult to wear them in fear of damaging the PVD coating. With this example, you won't have to worry about it too much, since the signs of wear are consistent and attractive. This example just came back from a full service, so it's ready to rock and roll.
Model seen on the wrist of Lt Pete "Maverick" played by Tom Cruise in the hit movie "Top Gun"
Information:
Pre-owned: Porsche Design By Orfina Chronograph I Ref. 7176S
Reference: 7176S
Circa: 70's
Dial/hands: Tritium
Bracelet: Black-PVD coated stainless steel Orfina bracelet
Case Size: 38mm x 12.5mm Thickness
Lug Width: 20mm
Case Metal: Stainless steel with black-PVD coating
Movement: Valjoux 7750 - Automatic
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds, Day-Date, Chronograph
Box and Papers: no box or Papers - Watch only
Crystal: Mineral Glass
Bracelet size: 7.5”
Condition: Excellent pre owned condition
Case has light normal wear with nothing notable. Bracelet has light normal surface wear. Dial, hands, and crystal have no wear. Bezel has light wear. Watch is running within spec.
About IWC
The International Watch Company (IWC) has a rich history dating back to 1868 when American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones founded the company in Schaffhausen, Switzerland. Jones aimed to combine advanced American manufacturing techniques with the skilled craftsmanship of Swiss watchmakers. Despite initial challenges, IWC quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality pocket watches and, later, wristwatches.
Throughout the 20th century, IWC was a force of innovation and expand its repertoire accordingly. In the 1930s, they introduced their first pilot's watches, which would become an enduring part of their identity. During World War II, IWC produced these watches for both civilian and military use. The post-war period saw the introduction of iconic collections like the Ingenieur in 1955 and the Aquatimer in 1967. In the 1970s, IWC collaborated with Ferdinand A. Porsche to create the first watch with a built-in compass. The company's commitment to technical innovation and classic design has persisted into the 21st century, with IWC remaining a respected name in luxury watchmaking.
