Originally, IWC was an American company producing watches in Switzerland for the US market. In 1868, the company moved to Schaffhausen, Switzerland. IWC really made a name for itself in World War II by making intricate Pilot?s Watches. IWC has long been regarded amongst the finest Swiss manufacturers of watches and they have continued to produce spectacular complicated pieces to maintain and expand their reputation. Minute repeaters, Perpetual Calendars and the Grand Complication are amongst the most admired pieces made. In 2000 IWC was purchased by Luxury giant Richemont (Cartier, Baume & Mercier, Le Coultre, Piaget, Mt. Blanc and Vacheron Constantin) and the new management is enjoying significant growth.