2025 new IWC Ingenieur Automatic 42 Black Ceramic & 40 18k Gold Watches IW338903/IW328702: Going Dark and Going for Gold
As a full-time editor here at watchi.co, I’ve followed the trajectory of the IWC Ingenieur closely since its polarizing revival in 2023. When Gérald Genta’s 1970s icon returned, it was a steel-focused affair that played it safe. But for 2025, Schaffhausen has taken the gloves off. The latest drop isn't just a color update; it’s a material science flex. We are looking at two very different beasts: the opulent Ingenieur Automatic 40 in 18k 5N gold and the menacing, tech-forward Ingenieur Automatic 42 in full black ceramic.
Let’s start with the heavyweight—literally. The Ingenieur Automatic 40 in 18k 5N gold (Ref. IW328702) retains the wearable 40mm chassis of the steel core collection but elevates it to pure luxury. Paired with a black dial, the red gold case and integrated bracelet exude a "John Player Special" vibe that is undeniably handsome. Under the hood beats the Caliber 32111, offering a massive 120-hour power reserve. However, unlike the original tool watches of the past, this model opts for a sapphire display back, allowing you to admire the mechanics at the cost of the traditional soft-iron inner cage.
Then there is the Ingenieur Automatic 42 Black Ceramic (Ref. IW338903), a watch that feels like the collection’s dark horse. This is the first Ingenieur to feature a fully ceramic bracelet, a notoriously difficult engineering feat. The case size has bumped up to 42mm—a necessary adjustment to maintain structural integrity with the ceramic material—and it houses the upgraded Caliber 82110. This movement features IWC’s Pellaton winding system with wear-free ceramic components, a significant technical step up from the movement found in the 40mm models.
The market reaction, as seen across the enthusiast community, has been a mix of awe and purist skepticism.
On the positive side, collectors are praising the sheer audacity of the finishing. The ceramic model, in particular, is being hailed as the "best Ingenieur in the current lineup" by those who value modern material innovation over vintage accuracy. The switch to the Caliber 82110 in the ceramic version has been warmly received, with many noting it’s the movement the Ingenieur "should have had from the start," given its superior winding system and pedigree.
However, the comments section is never without its thorns. The omission of the soft-iron inner cage—the very feature that gave the "Ingenieur" (Engineer) its name by providing magnetic resistance—has ruffled feathers. Purists have labeled these display-back models as "Ingenieurs for those who don't know anything about watches," arguing that form has officially overtaken function. Furthermore, the pricing remains a sticking point; with the ceramic model commanding nearly €21,500 and the gold significantly higher, the "value proposition" is a heated debate. The size increase to 42mm for the ceramic version also split the room; while some understand the technical necessity, others mourn the loss of the "perfect" 40mm proportions.
My take? IWC has successfully transitioned the Ingenieur from a utilitarian tool watch into a high-horology luxury sport object. If you can forgive the lack of a Faraday cage, you’re looking at two of the most impeccably crafted integrated-bracelet watches of the year.
Regarding the high price of luxury goods, for those who truly love this watch and have the financial means, price is not an issue, as long as they like it.
However, for ordinary watch enthusiasts, if you don't need it to be gold, nor do you need it to have a genuine 82110 movement, but simply need a watch with this excellent design that can tell time and perform basic watch functions, why not try your luck at our top replica Iwc watches online store: Watchi.co? Not all models are available, so send an email to customer service; they will get you an answer.
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