Black IWC Sticker...

A seller just told me that the black IWC sticker on the case back means it was
serviced. Is this true? I have seen this on many IWCs, but never understood
why it was there.

correct, if back from SPA it usually is on the back and probably some plastic
at/on the bracelet too.

but beware if not directly returned from serviced (at an AD it would be no
problem) but from any other seller I would ask for the service sheet (what has
been done and when!)

a sticker is easy to get (copy) and place and if you do not trust it actually
does not mean that is has been serviced..

good luck

Thanks for the quick reply. Is it possible to verify with IWC that a specific
watch has been serviced? Do they keep records?

The story from the the dealer (not sure if I am allowed to mention names) is
that he bought the watch from the original owner recently who purchased the
watch in 2005 (has papers, card, etc.) and was serviced in 2013. The original
owner did not have service papers to give to the dealer.

Whenever I've had one of mine serviced, it came back with an invoice
describing the work done and the cost. If it's important to you, I'd hang on
to that.

You should consider removing this sticker from the case back at some point. I
have heard of cases where the sticker, over many years, discolors the
stainless steel permanently. Heard this from my AD.

Nelson

Some NOS watches have the old authentic stickers as well.