IWC Porsche Design Ocean 2000 Ref. 3504
Dive Watch (Professional Tool Watch) · IWC Schaffhausen (Richemont Group) in collaboration with Porsche Design
Period: Tool Watch Era (1980s-1990s)
Type
Dive Watch (Professional Tool Watch)
Brand
IWC Schaffhausen (Richemont Group) in collaboration with Porsche Design
Movement
Automatic mechanical movement, based on ETA 2892-A2, operating at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) with a 42-hour power reserve
Dimensions
Case diameter: 42 mm, Case thickness: 12 mm, Lug-to-lug distance: 48 mm, Lug width: Integrated bracelet system
Description
The IWC Porsche Design Ocean 2000 is a masterclass in minimalist, functional industrial design. Born from a historic collaboration between Ferdinand Alexander Porsche and International Watch Co., this timepiece redefined the modern dive watch through its pioneering use of titanium and extreme depth rating. Its matte grey monochromatic aesthetic, integrated bracelet, and unconventional crown placement at 4 o'clock offer incredible wrist presence and uncompromised ergonomics.
Key Features
Pioneering full-titanium case construction, integrated bracelet design, high water-resistance capability without external helium escape valve, offset crown at 4 o'clock, and signature Porsche Design typography with IWC co-branding
Dial Description
Matte black dial featuring bold white luminous stick hour markers, prominent luminous baton hands, a red sweeping seconds hand, a date window at the 3 o'clock position, and dual branding 'PORSCHE DESIGN' and 'by IWC' at the top and bottom.
Case Material
Titanium with a uniform matte blasted, industrial finish
Crystal Type
Flat sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on the interior
Bezel Details
Fixed integrated titanium bezel with a distinct triangular 12 o'clock marker and notched edge profile, matching the tactical design language of the case
Crown & Pushers
Screw-down crown positioned uniquely at the 4 o'clock position, featuring fine knurling for grip and subtle integration into the case contour
Bracelet or Strap
Integrated titanium link bracelet featuring a specialized hidden clasp mechanism and unique sliding link sizing system patented by Porsche Design
Caseback Details
Solid titanium screw-down case back featuring deep engravings including the IWC and Porsche Design logos, water resistance rating, and individual serial numbers
Movement Type
Automatic mechanical movement, based on ETA 2892-A2, operating at 28,800 vph (4 Hz) with a 42-hour power reserve
Water Resistance
Rated to 2,000 meters (200 ATM / 6,560 feet), designed for extreme deep-sea saturation diving without the need for a helium escape valve due to the dense case construction and specialized crystal-mounting system.
Origin & Provenance
Swiss Made, manufactured in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, utilizing an outsourced ETA-based ebauche heavily modified and finished by IWC
Age Estimate
Circa mid-1980s to early 1990s production
Cultural Significance
A landmark timepiece in horological history that bridged the gap between avant-garde industrial design and traditional Swiss watchmaking, cementing titanium as a premier material for luxury and tool watches alike.
Condition Notes
The titanium case and integrated bracelet show minor desk diving scuffs typical of a well-maintained vintage tool watch, with crisp edges, clean matte finishing, a clear sapphire crystal, and an intact, legible dial with well-preserved tritium or early luminova plots.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value generally ranges from $4,000 to $7,500 USD depending on condition, inclusion of original box and papers, and service history.
Care & Maintenance
Recommended professional service every 5 to 7 years to ensure gasket integrity and movement health. Avoid harsh abrasives on the titanium finish and have the water resistance pressure tested annually if used in aquatic environments.
Similar Watches
IWC Porsche Design Titan Chronograph, Sinn 140/142 series, Tutima Military Chronograph, Omega Seamaster Titanium
Interesting Facts
The Ocean 2000 was originally commissioned to meet the rigorous specifications of the German Navy (Bundeswehr) combat swimmers. Its titanium construction was revolutionary for the watchmaking industry during a time when stainless steel was standard.