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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Compass watch

Porsche Design by IWC Compass Watch reference 3510

Partially verified

This Porsche Design by IWC Compass Watch, identified by reference 3510, is a specialized timepiece designed for navigation. The watch features a black dial with cross-hair markings, aged luminous indices, a date window at the 3 o'clock position, and a red running seconds hand. The case is constructed from PVD-coated aluminum and measures 38mm to 39mm, housing an automatic movement. A distinct feature of this model is the hinged case design, which includes integrated buttons at the 5 and 7 o'clock positions that allow the case to flip open, revealing a compass and mirror. The bracelet is made from lightweight Delrin plastic with a titanium clasp and includes quick-release buttons. The watch is noted for its lightweight construction, weighing 78 grams. It is accompanied by its original box and a handmade leather watch pouch.

Porsche Design by IWC Compass Watch reference 3510 viewed from the front, showcasing the black dial and PVD-coated finish.
Porsche Design by IWC Compass Watch reference 3510 viewed from the front, showcasing the black dial and PVD-coated finish. — Bulang & Sons. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.bulangandsons.com
Category
Wristwatch · Compass watch
Maker / attribution
IWC
Reference
3510
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
1980s
Source-reported place
Not established
Source-reported serial
225xxxx

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Navigation Features

The timepiece utilizes a PVD-coated aluminum case which serves as both a housing for the automatic movement and a functional navigation tool. The case construction incorporates a hinge mechanism that allows it to flip open by depressing buttons located at the 5 and 7 o'clock positions. Once opened, the interior reveals a compass and a mirror intended for navigation and signaling purposes.

The watch is paired with a bracelet composed of Delrin plastic, which is secured by a titanium clasp. This bracelet design includes specific links measuring 0.5 cm, allowing the watch to be flattened against a map to serve as a measurement device for calculating distances. The entire assembly, including the bracelet, weighs 78 grams.

Evidence for this section
  • “The lightweight 39mm PVD-coated aluminum case is in fantastic condition”
  • “buttons on the 5 and 7 o'clock sides for flipping open the case, revealing a compass and a mirror”
  • “The bracelet made from Delrin lightweight plastic with a titanium clasp links are exact 0.5 cm”

Dial and Movement

The black dial is marked with a distinctive cross-hair design and features a date display located at the 3 o'clock position. The hour markers are treated with aged yellow luminous material, and the seconds hand is rendered in a high-visibility red. The dial displays the International Watch Co. logo along with the Porsche Design signature.

The watch is powered by an automatic movement. The construction of the housing is specified to be anti-magnetic, a requirement included to maintain the accuracy of the internal compass while the watch is being worn.

Evidence for this section
  • “The dial features a cross-hair design, super nice aged yellow luminous markers, a red running seconds hand”
  • “the anti-magnetic movement ensures the compass's accuracy”
  • “Black dial signed IWC and Porsche Design”

Provenance and Condition

The watch is described as being in an untouched state and is accompanied by its original box along with a handmade leather watch pouch. According to the auction description, the item has not been serviced or opened, and it is presented as a complete set from the 1980s based on the provided serial number.

While the auction description reports that the watch is currently running, it also suggests that a professional service is recommended should the purchaser intend to use the timepiece for regular daily wear.

Evidence for this section
  • “As this watch is in completely untouched condition, we have decided to not even open this time capsule.”
  • “Serial 225xxxx dates to 1980s”
  • “The watch is running fine, but for everyday wear a service is recommended”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific manufacturer or patent holder for the Delrin bracelet used on the reference 3510?
  • How does the anti-magnetic shielding in the 3510 compare to standard IWC anti-magnetic movements of the 1980s?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Porsche Design by IWC Compass Watch reference 3510
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Reference3510“Reference 3510”
MakerIWC“Vendor: IWC”
Case MaterialPVD-coated aluminum“lightweight 39mm PVD-coated aluminum case”
Movement TypeAutomatic“Automatic movement”
Bracelet MaterialDelrin plastic with titanium clasp“bracelet made from Delrin lightweight plastic with a titanium clasp”
Weight78 grams“78 gramms !!”
Date1980s“Serial 225xxxx dates to 1980s”
FeaturesCompass and mirror“flipping open the case, revealing a compass and a mirror”

Visible details

  • Cross-hair dial pattern with aged luminous markers
  • Hinged case design containing an internal compass
  • Black PVD-coated aluminum casing
  • Bracelet links designed for measuring distances

Research qualifications

  • The exact serial number is partially obscured in the source data as '225xxxx'
  • The long-term functional accuracy of the internal compass is not verified

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Porsche Design by IWC Compass Watch رفرنس 3510

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 0150b2fb71

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.