IWC Ingenieur SL 18K YG (Ref. 9230) Black "Graph Paper" Dial, 1980s

Dealer description — Craft & Tailored

Founded more than 150 years ago, International Watch Company has grown into one of the most recognizable names in Swiss watchmaking. While the brand is widely associated with pilot’s watches, dive watches, and elegant dress pieces, the Ingenieur was conceived as something entirely different: a purpose-built, anti-magnetic tool watch designed for scientists and engineers. The first Ingenieur debuted in the 1950s with the ref. 666, presenting a restrained, almost dress-like aesthetic while housing a movement protected against magnetic fields, an essential feature for technical professionals of the era. The model’s defining moment arrived in 1976, when legendary watch designer Gerald Genta reimagined the Ingenieur into the now-iconic Ingenieur SL. Featuring Genta’s unmistakable integrated bracelet architecture and a bold, industrial case design, the SL transformed the Ingenieur into a true luxury sports watch while preserving its technical roots. The ref. 9230 presented here elevates that formula further with an 18K yellow gold case and bracelet, paired with a striking black “graph paper” dial whose finely gridded texture adds both visual depth and a distinctly technical character. Bridging tool-watch heritage with the refined design language of the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Ingenieur SL remains one of the most compelling expressions of Genta’s influential design era. SPECS Stock # IIWCI9230 Brand IWC Style Ingenieur Model 9230 Serial 23XXXXX Size Men's Material 18K Yellow Gold Dial Black "Graph Paper" Millimeters 34 Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold Integrated Bracelet CASE & BRACELET The wonderful 18K yellow gold tonneau case remains in excellent condition, showing light evidence of prior polishing and signs of minor use. The case retains its original screw-down crown adorned with the IWC fish logo. The case back exhibits nominal wear and is in excellent overall condition; the serial number on the outside of the case back is still faintly present and readable under magnification. The integrated 18K yellow gold bracelet retains 20 links that exhibit minimal stretch and will fit up to a 7-inch wrist. DIAL & HANDS The original and charismatic black "graph paper" dial is in simply exceptional, near-perfect condition, with no notable damage or age present within the dial itself. The tritium lume plots featured a subtle eggshell patina and all remain intact, though some degradation is present throughout the plots. The hands appear to be early luminova service units, but match the overall aesthetic perfectly. ACCESSORIES None. The watch is keeping time perfectly, though the service history is unknown. A movement service can be purchased upon request.