I've been looking for one for several years and was delighted when a buddy sent me a link for this one. A 1971 model most probably, with case #20120xx and 8541B calibre # 20377xx. The years of patiently hunting have paid off. And "mille grazie" to that same friend for warning me off of several other, lesser examples in the past, and dampening my often impulsive nature.
In my haste to purchase, I forgot to ask the seller if the mu-metal movement cover was present, as it was not seen in his ad. And so was greatly relieved when I opened the back and found it. And the near mint 8541 ticking away beneath.
I've seen several beautiful Inge 866's on this forum in the past, and now am happy to add this one to the herd.
And I've been collecting 866 parts over the last few years in anticipation of one day acquiring one. So my NOS crown (the crown on this watch has a major ding in it) and crystal will soon be put to good use. I was also fortunate enough to find an original IWC case back opener.
The minute hand will eventually be relumed to match the hour hand. I've become pretty adept at this. But these days have neither the time nor patience to start the often time-consuming process of color matching. It's on my wrist "as is" for the time being, and I could not be happier!
Cheers,
Todd
p.s white dots on the dial are actually on the inner crystal surface. the dial appears to be pristine..
