IWC Pre Hermet 14k Black Gilt – 1937

A Rare Survivor from the Golden Era of Watchmaking

Elegant, oversized, and nearly impossible to find — this 1937 IWC Pre “Hermet” is a remarkable artifact from the golden age of Swiss horology. With a large-for-its-time 36.5 mm solid 14k yellow gold case, it was designed with both innovation and aesthetics in mind.

The Hermet name reflects its patented dust- and moisture-resistant construction, a technical advancement well ahead of its era and our model seems to be a Pre Version of the 1938-40 release Hermet. The gilt dial, untouched and evenly aged, radiates vintage warmth with crisp Arabic numerals and original hands, framed by a partially recessed crown — a discreet nod to the thoughtful engineering within.

Originally made for the U.S. market, this watch features a case by Les Fils de Jules Blum, and houses the IWC Caliber 61, recently serviced and running strong. Few watches from the pre-war era combine design, rarity, and preservationquite like this one.

A collector’s time capsule — built with purpose, worn with elegance.

- wrist size in our picture is 18cm circumference -

DIAL:

• original never touched gilt dial in great condition
• developed slight and even patina throughout the dial 
• original hands & crown
  

STRAP & BUCKLE:

• brown aftermarket leather bracelet fitting up to 20 cm wrist size / 2 mm thick
• gold plated aftermarket buckle
• fixed lugs

CASE:

• excellent overall condition, showing minor traces of use
  
• 3- body 14k yellow gold case with snap-on case back from case maker Les Fils de Jules Blum
• 36.5 mm (without crown) / 43 mm (lug-to-lug) / 17.5 mm (between lugs) / 10 mm thick
• Year: 1937
• total weight: 45 g

MOVEMENT:

• International Watch Co Cal. 61
• 16 jewels, 18000 A/h, 41 hours power reserve
• professionally serviced in 09/2025
• -5 sec/d / 290°

BOX & PAPERS:

• GOLDAMMER certificate of authenticity & service documentation card
• GOLDAMMER box

GOLDAMMER REFERENCE: #1160