The Gérald Genta Heritage Association recently made an exciting announcement that has sent shockwaves throughout the watchmaking industry.
The original hand-painted design of Gérald Genta’s IWC Ingenieur (1976) has been located and authenticated, marking a significant milestone in the history of watchmaking.
This iconic watch design was thought to have been lost in time, but thanks to the investigative work undertaken by IWC’s Museum Curator Dr David Seyffer and his team, it has been brought back to life.
An Unprecedented Discovery
Following extensive archival work, interviews, witness statements, and examinations by different industry experts, the certificate of authenticity (n°2210101) was issued by Mrs Evelyne Genta, President of the Gérald Genta Heritage Association, in central London.
The discovery of this artwork is a glorious example of how the “Picasso of Watches” put paintbrush to paper to conceptualize yet another iconic timepiece that remains cherished by the industry.
The Design Features of Genta’s IWC Ingenieur
The Ingenieur is a line of engineer watches that IWC began producing in the 1950s. Designed for those working in scientific or technical industries, it featured a soft-iron inner case to protect the movement against magnetic fields.
It wasn’t until 1976 that Gérald Genta, the most famous watch designer of all time, imagined what would become the iconic IWC Ingenieur SL Ref 1832.
Genta’s celebrated design traits shone through the newly refreshed watch: large cushion case, screw-in bezel similar to the Royal Oak, and an integrated stainless steel bracelet.
Authentication of Genta’s Design
The newly discovered design is a testament to the originality and creativity of Genta’s work.
This artwork features all of the distinguishable characteristics of a Genta original: the paper upon which Mr Genta painted, the scale and shading of the drawing, the (slightly subtle) octagonal crown, and even the rare “GENTA” signature on the watercolour – one that is less known by watch enthusiasts, but more than familiar to those who knew Mr Genta and how he signed many of his canvas paintings.
Mrs Evelyne Genta, President of the Gérald Genta Heritage Association, commented on the discovery saying: “In line with the aim of the Association to shine a light on my late husband’s contribution to watchmaking, it is a great joy for us to have discovered and authenticated this design signed by him.
Another piece of watchmaking history has been found, and the Association is as honoured as always to be a part of it. It has been a pleasure to work on this project with the amazing team at IWC.”
The Thrilling Rediscovery of Gérald Genta’s Famous Steel Sports Watches
Dr David Seyffer, Curator of the IWC Museum in Schaffhausen, added: “We discovered this drawing a few months ago in the estate of a well-known IWC collector.
With the help of Evelyne Genta and the Gérald Genta Heritage Association, we were able to successfully verify its authenticity. The whole team at the IWC Museum in Schaffhausen is thrilled about this sensational find.
Almost 50 years after it was created, the last missing drawing of Gérald Genta’s famous steel sports watches from the 1970s has finally reappeared.”
This rediscovery is not only a momentous occasion for the Gérald Genta Heritage Association and IWC but for the entire watchmaking community.
It is a rare insight into the mind of one of the greatest watch designers of all time, whose innovative and iconic designs continue to inspire and influence the industry today.
The authentication of Genta’s original artwork is a testament to the meticulous work of IWC’s Museum Curator Dr David Seyffer and his team, who went to great lengths to locate and verify the painting’s authenticity.
The discovery highlights the importance of preserving and studying the history of watchmaking, and the significant role that museums and associations play in this regard.
The Gérald Genta Heritage Association’s dedication to shining a light on Genta’s contributions to watchmaking is commendable. The Association has been instrumental in preserving Genta’s legacy and ensuring that his groundbreaking designs continue to inspire future generations of watchmakers.
The rediscovery of Gérald Genta’s IWC Ingenieur (1976) design is a reminder of the immense impact that he had on the world of watchmaking.
His designs, characterized by their boldness and originality, continue to be highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike. It is a fitting tribute to his immense talent and a testament to the enduring appeal of his work.
In conclusion, the rediscovery of Gérald Genta’s IWC Ingenieur (1976) design is a monumental triumph that showcases the brilliance of Genta’s work.
It is a celebration of the enduring legacy of one of the greatest watch designers of all time and a testament to the importance of preserving and studying the history of watchmaking.
This discovery is a significant moment in the world of watchmaking and one that will be remembered for years to come.
