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We ship worldwide and also offer private viewings for watch lovers visiting Tokyo.
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No. 759 / IWC Automatic - 1978
No. 759 / IWC Automatic - 1978
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IMPORT DUTIES AND ASSOCIATED COSTS may apply and are the buyer’s responsibility. In most countries, these are typically just a few percent. FedEx usually collects the charges from the recipient after delivery.
FOR OUR U.S. FRIENDS: There is a 15% reciprocal tariff on Japan, and total import duties and fees are typically around 20%. We’re happy to help offset this. (See US Duty)
Please kindly read our policy below.
Item information ↓
IWC
Automatic
Box Set / Double Signed Dial / 1978
Intro
This refined IWC automatic wristwatch from 1978 embodies the mechanical artistry and restrained elegance that define vintage IWC. The silver sunburst dial is beautifully preserved, and most notably, it features a rare double-signed dial—combining the applied “IWC” logo with the traditional script signature.
This piece was originally purchased at the renowned Japanese watch retailer Shellman, located inside the historic Isetan department store in Tokyo. It is accompanied by Shellman’s original box set and certificate, making it an especially desirable example for collectors.
Story
Housed in a tonneau-shaped stainless-steel case, the watch strikes a harmonious balance between modernist geometry and understated luxury. One of its most intriguing and collectible features is the original signed fish crown, a detail highly prized among IWC enthusiasts.
The fish symbol engraved on the crown was used by IWC throughout the mid-20th century to indicate that the crown was designed as part of a water-resistant case construction. Although not a screw-down crown, the fish emblem signified that the watch met IWC’s internal standards for water resistance—an important assurance during the 1960s and 1970s, when durability and everyday practicality were becoming increasingly valued in luxury watchmaking.
Today, the presence of an original fish crown is especially sought after, as many examples have had theirs replaced with unsigned or generic service crowns over the years. Its survival suggests that the watch remains close to its factory-original configuration, enhancing its appeal as a well-preserved and historically correct example of IWC craftsmanship from this transitional era.
Detail
MODEL
Automatic
REFERENCE
R 1819 (2196201)
YEAR
1978
SERIAL
2219501
CASE
36mm (excluding crown), Stainless Steel
MOVEMENT
Automatic,
C.854B
LUG
19mm
INCLUDES
Watch with inner and outer boxes from Shellman, an antique watch specialty store, a certificate from the fame Mitsukoshi Isetan department store (Shinjuku Store), and a brand-new faux leather strap
Condition
OVERALL A Rank
CASE Small Scratches
CRYSTAL Small Scratches
DIAL Little Patina
HANDS Little Patina
MOVEMENT Great Condition, checked and oiled
ACCURACY 12 Sec. / day (12 Hr. Timegrapher Test)
Shipping & Duties
Courier
We ship all our packages via FedEx International Priority, which includes full insurance coverage. This means they can reach most places in 2-3 days, excluding time required for customs clearance.
Custom Duty and Associated Cost
Import duties and associated costs may apply and are the buyer's responsibility. In most countries, these are typically just a few percent. FedEx usually collects the charges from the recipient after delivery. The buyer will receive an invoice from FedEx after delivery and has 60 days to pay. After 60 days, the fee will be sent to a collection agent.
Shipping Cost
(All prices are in USD. Costs are per order which can included multiple items)
US & Canada
$90 (Order under $1000)
$100 (Order under $2000)
$110 (Order under $3000)
$150 (Order over $3000)
East Asia (China, Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong…etc)
$70 (Order under $1000)
$90 (Order under $2000)
$100 (Order under $3000)
$130 (Order over $3000)
Rest of Asia (Australia, ASEAN, Middle East..etc)
$100 (Order under $1000)
$120 (Order under $2000)
$130 (Order under $3000)
$160 (Order over $3000)
Rest of the world (Europe, UK, Latin America…etc)
$130 (Order under $1000)
$140 (Order under $2000)
$160 (Order under $3000)
$190 (Order over $3000)
Insurance
All packages will be fully insured via the courier.
Ship Out Time
Items will be shipped out within 2 days after payment confirmation.
Preparation
As part of our preparation for shipment, we go through the watch to ensure that everything is in working order. Also, for your peace of mind, we will provide a video explaining the functionality and condition of the watch.
Rejected or Returned Delivery
If, for any reason, the delivery is rejected upon delivery or returned to the seller due to issues on the buyer's side (e.g., being unable to provide information for customs clearance when asked or unable to receive delivery, etc.), the total shipping fees, customs duty, and a 15% restocking fee of the item's value will apply.
Special Arrangements
Other shipping options are also possible based on customer's request.
Return Policy
From Time To Times wants you to love your purchase! If, for any reason, you are not happy with your purchase, we offer a flexible return policy.
From Time To Times accepts returns up to 7 days from delivery. To be eligible for returns, items must:
- Return in original condition
- Include all accessories
Please notices:
- To start a return, please contact us via email with your order #
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Customer is responsible to ship the item back based on seller’s instruction
(in order to avoid customs duty) - Refund will be issued once the item is received and condition confirmed
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If we make a mistake (like sending the wrong item or missing parts), you'll get a full refund. Otherwise, we'll deduct 10% from your refund to transaction fees and handling fees.
- Please be aware that we cannot refund any shipping, duties and associated costs, as we are not the ones collecting them.
Please kindly let us know if you have any questions!
Please note
Care
Vintage watches were made many decades ago — some even over a century old. The technology and materials used back then are quite different from what we see in modern watchmaking today. What’s standard for contemporary watches may not apply to vintage ones, and certain activities — like high-intensity exercise — are best avoided while wearing them.
Understanding these differences and handling your vintage watch with a bit of extra care allows you to enjoy it more deeply, and for many years to come. These timepieces have quietly endured the passage of time — think of caring for them the way you might treat a beloved elder: gently, respectfully, and with appreciation.
Research
Vintage watch collecting, unlike acquiring modern timepieces, inherently involves a degree of uncertainty. Both research and personal experience play crucial roles in this journey. If doubts persist even after thorough research, we always advise our friends and clients to refrain from making a purchase. After all, unless one is completely confident in their decision, any lingering doubt can diminish the joy of owning these timepieces—which would be a great pity.
Authenticity
All our watches are inspected by a certified Japanese watchmaker (時計修理技能士1級). To the best of our knowledge, they are authentic and retain their original parts (including the untouched dial), unless stated otherwise. While we do our best, vintage watches naturally carry a level of uncertainty, and opinions on originality can differ even among professionals—so there is always a possibility of error in assessment. To account for this, buyers have one week after delivery to inspect the item and return it if necessary. (see return policy).
Size
Vintage watches are generally smaller than modern watches. Although our measurements are approximate, they provide a good indicator for the buyer to assess whether the smaller size will be an issue.
Water resistance
We suggest treating all vintage watches as having no water resistance, as micro-cracks can develop over time in the case or crystal, even if they are not visible. To preserve their condition, we recommend keeping vintage pieces away from moisture.
Servicing
If a watch is not specifically indicated as "Serviced", we do not have its service history and cannot guarantee its accuracy. We highly recommend it to be serviced by a watchmaker for regular use.
Accuracy
The accuracy indicated in the Condition section is based only on a 12-hour timegrapher test in one position (movement up or dial up). This serves as a reference to help the buyer understand the condition of the movement. We cannot guarantee its actual accuracy, and based on our experience, real-world performance may vary.
Original Accessory
Watch does not included original bracelet / strap / buckle / box / paper unless specifically stated.
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