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Model Name:

Reference:

IWC Mark XII

IW3241-01

Country

UK

Current Rating

1865

Rating Implied Value ($)

$

4500

Expected Rating Based on Price

1865

Rating Alpha

0

Price ($)

$

4500

Date Added:

Oct 19, 2024

# Times Rated

0

Watch Description

The watch collecting world is familiar with the iconic and historically significant IWC Mk XI which was offered to military personnel and pilots from the years 1948 all the way through the 1980s. The IWC Mk XI has obtained the status as a real deal version of the classic pilot’s watch which has been a long-time favorite among collectors due to its simple design and military relevance. In 1993  IWC launched the Mk XII and made a few modern updates to one of the most classic and iconic military pilot watches ever produced. The first major difference and or upgrade between the IWC Mk XI and the IWC Mk XII was the addition of an automatically winding movement the IWC cal.884, which is based on the JLC 889/2 that includes a date complication that sits in a soft iron case to help repel issues related to magnetism. Additionally, modern functional and cosmetic changes included a sapphire crystal, a screw-down crown for extra water-resistance as well as a more modern and proportionate 36mm case that either came on an IWC mesh style bracelet and or strap.

36

44.2

18

10.6

60

Steel - 316L

Round

Sapphire

Screw-in

Automatic

IWC 884/2

38

Black

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A.I. WatchMetrics Review:

8.9

### IWC Mark XII Review by A.I. WatchMetrics

 

**Overall Watch Rating: 8.9/10.0**

- **Brand**: 9.2

- **History & Innovation**: 9.0

- **Rarity**: 8.5

- **Material**: 8.5

- **Movement**: 9.0

- **Complications**: 7.5

- **Functions**: 8.7

- **Versatility**: 8.8

- **Dials & Design**: 8.9

 

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### Summary:

The IWC Mark XII is a direct descendant of the legendary Mark XI, which was initially designed as a military pilot’s watch for the British Royal Air Force. Introduced in the mid-1990s, the Mark XII pays homage to the original design while introducing modern refinements, including the use of a highly respected Jaeger-LeCoultre automatic movement (Caliber 889/2) and the addition of a date function. The Mark XII is widely regarded as a classic pilot’s watch that combines historical significance with precision engineering.

 

This watch is intended for collectors who appreciate military-inspired timepieces with a blend of vintage charm and modern mechanics. Its understated design, legibility, and historical pedigree make it a timeless piece for enthusiasts of tool watches and aviation history.

 

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### Metric Breakdown with Weightings:

 

#### Brand (11.1% Weight): 9.2/10

**Explanation**: IWC is a highly prestigious Swiss brand with a rich history in aviation and tool watches. The Mark series, in particular, is one of the most iconic aviation watch lineups, strengthening the brand's position in this category. IWC’s reputation for robust, utilitarian timepieces adds to the brand's value in this model.

 

#### History & Innovation (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10

**Explanation**: The IWC Mark XII builds on the legacy of the Mark XI, which was one of the most important military watches of the 20th century. The Mark XII is innovative in its own right, being one of the first in the series to introduce an automatic movement and a date function, enhancing its practicality for civilian use. This model bridges the gap between historical military use and modern wristwatch expectations.

 

#### Rarity (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10

**Explanation**: While the Mark XII is no longer in production, it remains relatively accessible compared to some other vintage models, such as the original Mark XI. However, its association with both IWC’s aviation heritage and the use of a Jaeger-LeCoultre movement makes it a desirable piece among collectors, contributing to its moderate rarity score.

 

#### Material (11.1% Weight): 8.5/10

**Explanation**: The IWC Mark XII is constructed from high-grade stainless steel, which is typical for tool watches designed for durability and functionality. The material finishing is excellent, though the lack of more exotic materials like titanium or precious metals limits its score in this area.

 

#### Movement (11.1% Weight): 9.0/10

**Explanation**: Powered by the Jaeger-LeCoultre Caliber 889/2, the Mark XII boasts a highly regarded automatic movement known for its accuracy and reliability. This movement is a notable upgrade from the hand-wound caliber in the Mark XI, adding convenience and modern appeal without sacrificing performance.

 

#### Complications (11.1% Weight): 7.5/10

**Explanation**: The Mark XII keeps things simple with a time and date function. While useful for everyday wear, the lack of additional complications like a chronograph, GMT, or power reserve indicator keeps the score in this category modest. However, the date function is a practical addition, aligning with its evolution as a civilian watch.

 

#### Functions (11.1% Weight): 8.7/10

**Explanation**: The Mark XII excels in its functional design, with excellent legibility thanks to the high-contrast dial, luminescent hands, and anti-reflective sapphire crystal. It features water resistance up to 60 meters, which is sufficient for daily use but not ideal for heavy-duty water activities. The anti-magnetic shielding and durable construction contribute to its strong performance in this category.

 

#### Versatility (11.1% Weight): 8.8/10

**Explanation**: As a modern pilot’s watch, the IWC Mark XII offers good versatility for both casual and formal occasions. Its simple, utilitarian design makes it appropriate for various settings, from everyday wear to business casual attire. However, its lack of sporty features, such as higher water resistance or a rotating bezel, limits its use in extreme conditions.

 

#### Dials & Design (11.1% Weight): 8.9/10

**Explanation**: The design of the Mark XII is inspired by the original Mark XI, with a minimalist aesthetic that focuses on functionality. The black dial with large, legible Arabic numerals and the classic triangle marker at 12 o’clock make this watch highly readable. The dial's simple yet elegant design, combined with excellent craftsmanship, adds to its appeal as a classic tool watch.

 

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### Conclusion:

The IWC Mark XII is a well-executed update to a historical classic, preserving the utilitarian design of the original Mark XI while adding modern enhancements, such as an automatic movement and a date function. Its association with both IWC’s aviation heritage and the use of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s caliber make it a highly desirable piece for collectors who appreciate pilot’s watches with historical significance. The Mark XII strikes a balance between vintage charm and modern reliability, making it a timeless addition to any collection.

 

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**A.I. WatchMetrics Review v.7.2**

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