IWC SCHAFFHAUSEN LAUNCHES NEW TIMBERTEX PAPER-BASED WATCH STRAPS
Schaffhausen, 11 March 2021 – IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled new TimberTex straps, made from a low-impact paper-based material. This pioneering creation is the result of in-depth research and development and reflects IWC’s ongoing commitment to innovation and responsible watchmaking.
IWC has long led the luxury watch sector in the development of cutting-edge materials and is now proud to introduce new watch straps made primarily of paper from responsible sources. Conscious of the importance of offering alternatives to its responsibly sourced leather, the Swiss brand already provides bracelets in steel, textile and rubber. Today, the Manufacture is broadening this existing collection further with the addition of TimberTex straps. By focusing on the production process and lifecycle, IWC has ensured reduced environmental and social impacts from start to finish, while providing customers with another high-quality and stylish choice.
“Throughout our 153-year history, IWC has led the way in product design, material invention and manufacturing methods. From our formative years, using hydropower provided by the River Rhine, to our early adoption of titanium, ceramics and the creation of Ceratanium®, our pursuit of innovation has yielded remarkable advances. Naturally, we wanted to apply this same pioneering spirit to finding further high-quality alternatives for our clients who don’t wear animal leather,”
A PREMIUM, ECO-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVE
Luxurious in look and feel, the TimberTex straps have a soft and supple texture. Unlike synthetic leathers, which are often plastic or petroleum-based, the material is composed of 80% natural plant fibres. The cellulose used comes from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified trees grown in the non-profit organisation’s sustainably and responsibly managed European forests. It is then manufactured in Italy, using traditional papermaking techniques and coloured with natural plant-based dyes. The material’s irregular grain makes every strap unique.
HERITAGE CRAFTSMANSHIP LED BY ENVIRONMENTAL PRINCIPLES
The creation of TimberTex straps includes over 60 different stages, with craftsmanship playing a key role. Padded with recycled microfibre for extra comfort and expertly finished with recycled thread, they are another highly wearable and luxurious leather-free option. Tested both internally and externally, the straps meet all of IWC’s quality criteria. Very durable, they are also water-resistant and won’t show signs of wear after a dip in the pool.
The TimberTex straps currently complement four models: the Portugieser Chronograph, Portugieser Automatic 40, Portofino Automatic and Portofino Chronograph. They are available in blue, brown and black.
IWC Schaffhausen is the Engineer of Watchmaking. In 1868, the American watchmaker and engineer Florentine Ariosto Jones established the ‘International Watch Company’ in Schaffhausen in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. By combining the best of human craftsmanship and creativity with cutting-edge industrial technology and processes, he laid the foundation for IWC’s unique engineering approach to watchmaking.
IWC’s distinctive and pure design is brought to life through collections ranging from elegant dress watches to sports and luxury sports watches, notably the Portugieser, Portofino, Pilot’s Watches and Ingenieur. Over its more than 150-year history, IWC has earned a reputation for creating professional instrument watches and functional complications, especially chronographs and calendars, which are ingenious, robust and easy to use.
A pioneer in the use of titanium and ceramic, IWC specializes in performance materials such as Ceratanium®. IWC’s advanced engineering division XPL develops technologies that enhance the durability of mechanical watches and extend their applications to environments with extreme conditions such as jet aviation and human spaceflight.
IWC is a leader in luxury watchmaking, crafting timepieces built to last for generations and continuously improving every aspect of how it manufactures, distributes and services its watches responsibly. Empowering the next generation of engineers, the brand also partners with organizations that work globally to support children and young people. IWC. EngineeredTM.