Overview
The 1990s proved to be a momentous era for IWC, characterized by the revival of several historical collections and the advancement of innovative technologies that democratized the realm of fine watchmaking. Under the guidance of Günter Blümlein, Kurt Klaus, and Richard Habring, the brand achieved remarkable milestones, including the creation of notable timepieces like the Grande Complication, Portugieser Jubilee, Mark XII, and Doppelchronograph.
Amidst this renaissance period, one timepiece that remains relatively obscure, possibly due to its limited production, is the Romain. IWC introduced two variants of the Romain—a three-hand automatic version featuring a date window (ref. 3209) and a two-hand manual version without a date (ref. 2009). Both watches were embellished with the brand's finest elements, including an elegant two-tone silver dial adorned with Roman numerals, exquisitely blued leaf-shaped hands, and a case in either lustrous platinum or 18K yellow gold. Furthermore, consistent with the brand's tradition at the time, IWC chose to equip these timepieces with highly regarded JLC movements.
While both models possess captivating allure, our preference lies with the hand-wound time-only variant powered by the IWC caliber 1852. This remarkably thin movement, based on JLC's renowned caliber 839, measures a mere 1.84mm in thickness. Its incredible flatness allows for a case height of only 4.9mm, positioning it among the world's thinnest mechanical watches of its time. However, the true enchantment of this timepiece lies in the tactile experience it provides. The delicate proportions beautifully juxtapose with the substantial weight of its platinum case, resulting in a surprising sense of heft when held and an unequivocal joy when worn.
Specifications
Brand:
IWC
Model:
Romain Ultra-Thin Platinum
Reference:
IW2009-02
Year:
1997
Case Number:
2482171
Case Material:
Platinum
Diameter:
34 mm
Lug Width:
18 mm
Thickness:
4.9 mm
Lug-to-Lug:
36.8 mm
Dial:
Silver
Lume:
None
Crystal:
Sapphire
Movement:
Hand-wound
Caliber:
IWC 1852
Bracelet/Strap:
IWC black alligator strap with platinum tang buckle
Max Wrist Size:
Hand model has a wrist size of 6.2 in
Condition
Case: The platinum case is overall very clean and shows light signs of wear with a few faint hairlines, a couple micro nicks, and some very minor scratching on the case side opposite the crown. The lugs are thick, well defined, and free of any notable scratches. The case back condition is consistent with the rest of the watch with hairlines present on the outer ring. The backs of the lugs have a couple light scratches from strap changes, but nothing major. The inner brushed area shows virtually no wear and is protected by what looks to be an IWC Japan sticker. The serial number and platinum hallmark engravings remain sharp and legible.
Dial, Hands, & Crystal: The silver sunburst dial and blue'd hands are in near-mint condition. There is a small and discreet stain present at the edge of the inner dial between 6 and 7 o'clock. The sapphire crystal is perfect and free of scratches.
Bracelet/Strap: The IWC black alligator strap shows light signs of wear with some fraying at the edges. The buckle has minor hairlines consistent with the rest of the watch. The additional Veblenist marine textured strap is nearly unused and shows hardly any wear.
Performance
Functions: All functions including the crown winding and time setting are working as expected.
Service History: Unknown.
