IWC Caliber 58 – Vintage Manual-Winding Movement for Ladies’ Watches
The IWC Caliber 58 is a small, manual-winding mechanical movement produced by IWC Schaffhausen during the mid-20th century, primarily designed for ladies’ wristwatches. This caliber reflects IWC’s focus on precision and elegance in compact form, suitable for delicate and refined timepieces.
Key Specifications – Caliber 58
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Movement Type | Manual-winding mechanical |
| Diameter | Approximately 16.0 mm |
| Thickness | Around 3.0 mm |
| Frequency | 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz) |
| Power Reserve | Approximately 36–40 hours |
| Jewels | Typically 15 |
| Functions | Hours and minutes (time-only) |
| Shock Protection | Early models may lack; later models include Incabloc |
| Production Period | 1940s–1950s |
Design and Engineering Highlights
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Designed as a compact and thin movement to fit into smaller ladies’ wristwatch cases.
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Simple two-hand layout emphasizing minimalism and legibility.
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High-quality finishing with traditional Swiss watchmaking techniques such as perlage and polished components.
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Reliable manual winding suitable for daily use.
Common Applications
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Utilized mainly in gold or steel ladies’ dress watches.
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Paired with elegant, slim cases to suit the fashion of the era.
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Often found in watches designed for formal occasions or refined everyday wear.
Collectibility and Servicing
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Appreciated by collectors interested in vintage ladies’ IWC watches for its historic significance and mechanical reliability.
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Requires careful servicing due to the small size and delicate parts.
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Spare parts may be sourced from vintage movement suppliers or through restoration projects.
Conclusion
The IWC Caliber 58 is a representative example of IWC’s dedication to crafting precision manual-winding movements for ladies’ watches. Its compact size, elegant simplicity, and robust engineering make it a valued movement among collectors and restorers of vintage Swiss timepieces.
