IWC Schaffhausen announced three new models of the Aquatimer family that will be presented at the 2016 SIHH. First of all, the new Aquatimer Chronograph will be limited to 500 pieces and it was named after “La Cumbre Volcano” of the Galapagos Islands. The Auquatimer Automatic 2000 is will be wearing yellow this year, and finally, there will be a special edition model dedicated to the famous French scuba-diver Jacques-Yves Cousteau, the Aquatimer Automatic Edition “Expedition Jacques-Yves Cousteau”.

Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “La Cumbre Volcano” (Ref. IW379505)

IWC Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “La Cumbre Volcano” (Ref. IW379505)

Since 2009, IWC Schaffhausen has partnered with the Charles Darwin Foundation to help preserve the fragile ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands. Every year, they unveil a limited edition model where part of the proceeds go to the Foundation. This year’s model is dedicated to the La Cumbre volcano on the island of Fernandina.

The internal rotating bezel, central seconds and minute hand of the chronograph display are dark red in colour to symbolize seething magma. The engraving on the case back shows the volcano erupting. The stainless-steel case is coated with matte black rubber, which gives the watch its singular feel. Every case is individually pressure- and heat-bonded with the rubber.

On the Inside, there are no changes, just as the last year’s model, the movement is still the automatic IWC-manufactured 89365 calibre.

Aquatimer Automatic 2000 (Ref. IW358001)

IWC Aquatimer Automatic 2000 (Ref. IW358001)

The 2016 version of the Aquatimer Automatic 2000 will be easily recognized because of its yellow hands and numerals on a black dial. With a diameter of 46 mm and 20.5 mm thick, it is built from titanium. As the name tell is it, it can go as deep as 2000 m. It is powered by the automatic 80110 movement, beating at 28,800 vph and with a power reserve of 44 hours.

Aquatimer Automatic Edition “Expedition Jacques-Yves Cousteau” (Ref. IW329005)

IWC Aquatimer Automatic Edition “Expedition Jacques-Yves Cousteau” (Ref. IW329005)

IWC Schaffhausen continues its series of special editions in honour of the French diving pioneer and oceanographer. As a partner of the Cousteau Society, the Schaffhausen-based watch manufacturer contributes to the restoration of Cousteau’s famous research vessel, the Calypso, among other things.

Measuring 42 mm in diameter, 14 mm in height and with a water resistance of 300 meters, compared to the Aquatimer Automatic 2000, this is a more reserved diver. It is not just because of its size, but the overall design is more toned down. The stainless steel case combined with the deep blue dial is a superb combo.

The back of the watch features an engraving of “le Commandant” Jacques-Yves Cousteau with his trademark beanie.

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