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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsThe IWC Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “Expedition Jacques-Yves Cousteau,” reference IW376805, is a substantial 44 mm dive chronograph distinguished by its SafeDive external/internal rotating bezel and a day-date display. IWC now lists it in past collections. Its published specifications are clear; a current retail or resale price is not established here, so buyers should check live listings and assess condition, seller and return terms.
Identify the exact watch
IW376805 is the Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “Expedition Jacques-Yves Cousteau.” It is not the similarly named Aquatimer Automatic Edition IW329005. The chronograph reviewed here has a 44 mm case and automatic caliber 79320; the Automatic is a different model and reference.
Specifications
The following are product specifications published by IWC Schaffhausen on its page accessed in 2026, not independent test results.
| Specification | IWC-listed detail |
|---|---|
| Reference | IW376805 |
| Case | Stainless steel; 44 mm diameter and 17 mm height |
| Water resistance | 30 bar |
| Movement | Automatic, IWC caliber 79320; 28,800 vph (4 Hz), 240 components and 25 jewels |
| Power reserve | 44 hours |
| Functions | Day and date; chronograph hours, minutes and seconds; small hacking seconds |
| Bezel | Mechanical external/internal rotating bezel with SafeDive system |
| Crown and crystal | Screw-in crown; convex sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides |
| Dial and strap | Blue dial; black rubber strap with IWC-patented quick-change system |
| Caseback | Standard caseback, according to IWC; the 2014 review describes a Cousteau relief engraving |
How the SafeDive bezel works
IWC identifies the system as a mechanical external/internal rotating bezel. In Frank Geelen’s 2014 Monochrome review, the external ring operates the internal dive-time bezel, which locks in one-minute increments and can move only counterclockwise. That arrangement provides a way to set elapsed dive time while reducing the risk of accidentally extending the indicated time. It is a watch feature, not a substitute for dive training, a dive plan or checking equipment.
#1 Best Overall
- Chronograph - The main advantage of a chronograph is its stopwatch function, allowing you to measure elapsed time accurately and with ease.
- Stainless-steel Case - The stainless-steel case is resistant to corrosion, rust, and daily wear and tear.
- Natural Leather Strap - The black strap is crafted of supple natural leather that is oiled, waxed, and coated to resist water and soften with wear.
- Enhanced Visibility - Luminant hands ensure readability in low-light conditions while our INDIGLO backlight makes it easy to tell time in the dark. Simply push the crown to activate it.
- Date Window - Easily track the date in a dedicated window beside 4 o'clock.
Size, finish and wear
At 44 mm across and 17 mm high, IW376805 is a large, thick sports watch. Geelen described it as too large to slip beneath a cuff, but found its shaped rubber strap comfortable despite the case’s size and weight. That is one reviewer’s experience, not a guarantee of fit; wrist shape and personal preferences matter. The 2014 review also describes brushed, satin-finished and polished surfaces on the steel case.
IWC describes the supplied black rubber strap as having its patented quick-change system. Confirm strap or bracelet compatibility with IWC or a knowledgeable seller before buying replacements; the available specifications do not establish compatibility with generic straps.
Rank #2
- VERIFY YOUR WATCH MODEL & MEASURE THE CORRECT SIZE USING A RULER – Watch Parts Are Model and Size Specific. Please Verify Compatibility Before Purchasing.
- Perfect Fit for IWC Aquatimer Models: Aftermarket rubber strap for 42mm IWC 3719, 3719-03, 3719-28, 3719-33, 371918 Dual Crown Aquatimer Automatic Chronograph. Fits 25mm lugs and 18mm buckle width. Measure your lug width for compatibility.
- High-End Rubber Quality: Made from premium black rubber for durability and comfort. Designed to enhance the look and feel of your IWC watch with superior material quality and a sleek, elegant finish.
- Accurate Measurements: Long part: 120mm (4.8 inches), Short part: 90mm (3.6 inches). Fits lugs with a 15.5mm opening and an 18mm buckle. Ensure these dimensions match your watch before purchasing to avoid returns.
- No Logo or Markings: Clean design with no logos or markings on the strap. Perfect for a minimalist look that maintains the watch's original aesthetic without additional branding.
Caliber 79320 and the chronograph
IWC lists the self-winding caliber 79320 with a 44-hour power reserve, 28,800-vph frequency, 240 components and 25 jewels. It drives the chronograph and the day-date display. Geelen called the movement robust but noted that it is not an in-house caliber. Those are the reviewer’s assessment and characterization, rather than a current independent evaluation.
What the Cousteau edition signifies
The edition ties the watch to Jacques-Yves Cousteau and marine conservation. IWC states: “The mystical blue of the ocean on your wrist: with part of the proceeds from sales, IWC supports the Cousteau Society and its projects for the protection of marine life.” The statement does not specify a percentage, contribution total or amount directed to any particular project.
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- Tachymeter Feature: Measure Speed
- Secure Case Back: Screw Type
Geelen’s 31 July 2014 review places the model among IWC’s Cousteau-related Aquatimer editions and says it commemorates Cousteau’s voyages and films. Treat that as historical context from the review; it does not establish the terms or duration of a present-day partnership beyond IWC’s current product-page statement.
Price, availability and buying checks
IWC places IW376805 in its past collections and does not list a current price on the product page. No current retail price, resale range or stock status is established here. For a pre-owned example, compare current listings rather than relying on an old launch-era or review-era figure.
Rank #4
- Adjustable black 20mm genuine leather strap fits up to 8-inch wrist circumference; quick-release spring bars
- Black dial with date window at 4 o'clock; white full Roman numerals
- 30-minute chronograph measures to 1/20th second
- Silver-tone 40mm stainless steel case with mineral glass crystal; Indiglo light-up watch dial; luminous hands
- Water resistant to 50m (165 ft): In general, suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, but not diving or snorkeling
- Check that the reference is IW376805 and that the listing describes the chronograph, not Automatic reference IW329005.
- Ask for clear photographs of the dial, case, caseback, crown, bezel, strap and any included paperwork or accessories.
- Review seller identity, condition disclosures, authenticity safeguards, service history and return policy before committing.
- Confirm that the bezel, chronograph, day-date and quick-change strap mechanism operate as expected, or ask a qualified watchmaker to inspect the watch.
The title phrase “exclusive photos” should not be read as an availability claim: images from the 2014 review are not established as reusable. Any photos accompanying a new listing or article should be owned or properly licensed.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Historical comparison: Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Chronograph
Geelen’s 2014 article compared IW376805 with the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean Chronograph of that period. He described the Omega then as more competitive on value, with higher water resistance, while also saying it wore heavier and larger. Those are dated impressions, not a current model-to-model comparison; the article’s price comparison should not be used as a present-day buying guide.
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Best Value
- Adjustable 20mm leather strap fits up to 8-inch wrist circumference
- Black dial with silver-tone subdials; date window at 4 o'clock; full markers
- 30-minute chronograph measures to 1/20th second
- Silver-tone 41mm stainless steel case with mineral glass crystal; luminous hands
- Water resistant to 50m (165 ft): In general, suitable for short periods of recreational swimming, but not diving or snorkeling
Anyone choosing between current alternatives should compare the exact references on case diameter and thickness, water resistance, movement architecture, bezel operation, strap or bracelet interchangeability and verified current price. No current Omega reference or price is established here.
What the 2014 hands-on review adds
Geelen said he wore the watch for around three weeks. He praised legibility, bezel operation and the quick-change system, while identifying the non-in-house movement as a drawback and still describing caliber 79320 as robust. These are useful historical observations from that review, not new testing or a statement about the condition of any watch currently for sale.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
