IWC Tank Onyx black Diamonds UAE 18k Solid gold Clous de Paris guilloche 1980s

A wide rectangular case crafted in solid 18k gold, measuring 30mm across the case and 36mm from lug to lug. Its commanding presence is further elevated by the combination of black onyx, diamonds, and the distinctive emblem displayed on the dial.

The emblem depicts the Hawk of Quraish, also known as the Arab Falcon—the national emblem of the United Arab Emirates. A symbol of authority, courage, and the nation’s cultural heritage.

At its center appears the traditional dhow with twin sails, representing the rich maritime trading history of the Arab world and the enduring relationship between the UAE and the sea.

Although the case measures only 30mm excluding the crown, the extended 36mm lug-to-lug dimension gives the watch remarkable wrist presence. The elongated proportions of the tank case create an impression far larger than its nominal size.

Once on the wrist, the substantial weight of the solid 18k gold construction immediately becomes apparent, reflecting the quality of its carefully crafted case.

Inside, the case incorporates two spring elements positioned between the movement and the caseback, preventing direct contact while maintaining constant pressure. This thoughtful engineering also enhances the sealing performance of the snap-back construction, providing improved resistance despite its elegant profile.

Powering the watch is the in-house Caliber 1852, manufactured by Jaeger-LeCoultre and adopted during IWC’s new chapter following its integration into the Jaeger-LeCoultre group in 1978.

Its architecture traces directly back to the celebrated Caliber 838 of 1962, one of Jaeger-LeCoultre’s landmark ultra-thin movements. Evolving into the higher-frequency Caliber 839, the movement increased its beat rate from 18,000 to 21,600 vibrations per hour while preserving the refined construction that made its predecessor legendary.

For this special UAE-commissioned model, IWC Schaffhausen further refined the movement with adjustment in five positions.

The UAE emblem is only one part of its story.

The case construction, the movement, and the chronometric adjustment together reveal a watch created as a true special-order commission—an exceptional timepiece whose significance extends far beyond its appearance.

- wrist size in our picture is 17cm circumference -