For IWC, the Doppelchronograph represents a key moment in the brand's modern history. Introduced during a period of renaissance in mechanical watchmaking after the quartz crisis, the model embodies IWC's engineering approach, which focuses on functionality, legibility, and technical substance rather than decorative elements.
The Doppelchronograph line played a decisive role in reaffirming IWC as a benchmark for professional complications, particularly in the aviation segment. The ability to industrialize a split-seconds complication in a reliable, mass-produced watch set a new standard for high-function complications.
Today, the ref. 3713 is considered by collectors to be a milestone in IWC's production from the 1990s: a watch that epitomizes the brand's pragmatic vision of fine watchmaking and remains one of the most respected steel chronographs of the late 20th century.
The IWC Doppelchronograph reference 3713 is one of the most technically advanced pilot's chronographs produced in the 1990s. Its defining feature is the split-seconds complication, which allows for the measurement of intermediate times via the additional pusher at 10 o'clock—a complex function rarely associated with a watch with such a distinctly instrumental design.
The 42 mm stainless steel case features satin-brushed surfaces and a screw-down caseback engraved with "Doppelchronograph," underscoring its status as a true tool watch. The matte black dial promotes maximum readability, with large Arabic numerals, luminescent hands, and the signature triangle at 12 o'clock. The subdials are well-balanced, while the day-date window at 3 o'clock adds everyday functionality. This piece features a day disc in Italian, consistent with production at the time. The crown features a fish symbol, indicating increased water resistance.
The movement is the IWC caliber 79230, derived from the Valjoux 7750 and significantly modified to integrate the split-seconds mechanism. Prized for its robustness and reliability, it makes the ref. 3713 one of the most usable and long-lasting split-seconds chronographs of its generation.
