A Tale of Two Straps: My IWC Calibre 85 Journey

A Tale of Two Straps: My IWC Calibre 85 Journey

When I first laid eyes on the IWC Calibre 85 at an online auction, I knew I had found something special. As someone constantly juggling office work and casual outings, I was searching for a versatile timepiece that could keep up with my lifestyle. The date function, prominently displayed with a cyclops lens, immediately caught my eye - a feature that has proven invaluable in my day-to-day tasks.

The IWC Calibre 85 Family: A Horological Milestone

The IWC Calibre 85 family holds a significant place in horological history. Introduced in the 1950s, these movements were among the first automatic calibers produced by IWC. They gained renown for their reliability and precision, becoming the beating heart of the iconic Ingenieur line. The 85x series, spanning from the 852 to the 8541, represented a leap forward in watchmaking technology, with features like antimagnetic properties and improved shock resistance.

An IWC watch with a silver dial and date window at 3 o'clock, featuring stick hour markers and dauphine hands. The watch has a stainless steel case and is mounted on a light brown leather strap with white stitching. The watch is resting on a dark textured surface.

Elevating the IWC Experience with Premium Quick Release Straps

While the IWC Calibre 85 is impressive on its own, I've discovered that the right strap can transform its character entirely. That's where my two favorites come in: a sleek black Alran leather strap and a soft grey nubuck option.

An IWC cal. 85 resting in the pocket of a linen suit jacket. The IWC is paired with a alran black leather strap with quick release spring bar from the collection of quaint & collectible

What makes these straps truly convenient is their quick-release spring bars. This allows me to swap between looks in seconds, without the need for tools.Whether I'm dressing up for a meeting or down for a weekend brunch, my IWC is always perfectly styled.

An IWC watch with a silver dial and date window at 3 o'clock, featuring stick hour markers and dauphine hands. The watch has a stainless steel case and is mounted on a light brown leather strap with white stitching. The watch is resting on a dark textured surface

Alran Leather vs. Nubuck Leather: Tailoring Your IWC's Style

Choosing the right strap is an art form in itself. The grey nubuck gives my IWC a relaxed, weekend-ready vibe that pairs perfectly with a light-colored t-shirt for casual outings. On the other hand, the black Alran leather elevates the watch to boardroom-worthy status, complementing crisp shirts and more formal attire.

An IWC cal. 85 resting in the pocket of a linen suit jacket. The IWC is paired with a alran black leather strap with quick release spring bar from the collection of quaint & collectible

These two straps have breathed new life into my beloved IWC Calibre 85, I've expanded its versatility tenfold. The combination of IWC's timeless design, the practicality of quick release spring bars, and the style options offered by Alran leather and nubuck straps has made my watch the perfect companion for any occasion. Whether I'm checking the date through the cyclops lens during a meeting or admiring my IWC's casual charm at a weekend gathering, these straps ensure my timepiece is always perfectly suited to the moment.

Shop the Black Alran Watch Strap, available in 16-20 mm lug widths. 

Alran Leather - Midnight Colour Name - Black Colour - - Stitch - Quick Release Spring Bar - 17 mm - 18 mm - 19 mm Lug Width

 

Shop Nubuck Granite Grey Watch Strap, available in 16-20 mm lug widths.

Nubuck Leather - Granite Colour Name - Elephant Grey Colour - - Stitch - Quick Release Spring Bar - 17 mm - 18 mm - 19 mm Lug Width
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