Introducing IWC Unveils Two New Portugieser Collection Models

IWC started the new year with the release of the IWC “Pilot's Mark XX Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One”. In its latest releases, the brand further expands the iconic Portugieser collection with two new releases, the “Portugieser 40 and 42 Automatic” in two different sizes. These timepieces embody the classic spirit that defines the Portugieser collection. The Portugieser collection is one of the most famous lines produced by Swiss watchmaker IWC Schaffhausen. The collection was first introduced in 1939, taking its name from the Portuguese market that originally requested such precision timepieces. The story began when two Portuguese merchants approached IWC to create a watch with mechanical movement and maritime standards, thus marking the birth of a collection that celebrates meticulous craftsmanship and exceptional accuracy.

Both versions boast a luxurious 18k gold case and come equipped with sapphire crystal glass on both the front and back, allowing for a stunning view of the intricate mechanics within. The elegant case offers 50 meters of water resistance. However, the two models differ in their proportions. The IWC Portugieser 42 features a 42.4 mm diameter and a 12.9 mm height, making it a slightly larger choice for those who prefer a more noticeable watch on the wrist. In contrast, the IWC Portugieser 40 has a 40.4 mm diameter and a 12.4 mm height, offering a slightly more compact design that may appeal to those seeking a more understated, refined look.

Both dials feature a silver-plated surface, complemented by gold-plated hands and gold numerals. The dial manufacturing process involved 60 individual steps to achieve the exceptional depth and clarity. This optical depth is achieved by layering 15 coats of transparent lacquer, which are fine-ground and polished to a high gloss finish. The subdials are meticulously milled into both the brass blank and lacquer layer, with the appliques individually mounted by hand. Additionally, a railway track-style minute scale is printed in black around the edge of the dial, with gold indicators marking five-minute intervals, which enhance the dial’s precision and legibility.

Despite their similarities, the two dials have subtle differences. The IWC Portugieser 42 Automatic features a power reserve subdial at 3 o'clock, a small second subdial at 9 o'clock, and a date window at 6 o'clock. On the other hand, the IWC Portugieser 40 Automatic simplifies the layout with just a small second subdial at 6 o'clock, omitting the power reserve and date indicators for a more minimalist approach.

Both feature IWC's in-house manufactured movements. The IWC Portugieser 40 Automatic is powered by the Caliber 82200, an automatic winding movement with a 60-hour power reserve. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vph(4 Hz), ensuring accurate timekeeping, including 192 components.

On the other hand, the IWC Portugieser 42 Automatic is driven by the more advanced Caliber 52011, which offers a significantly extended 168-hour power reserve, thanks to its dual barrels. This longer reserve is a standout feature, ensuring that the watch remains running for an entire week without needing to be wound. Like the 40mm version, the 42mm model operates at 28,800 VPH (4 Hz). The Caliber 52011 has 249 components, reflecting its more complex structure to accommodate the additional power reserve and other features, and it is decorated with Côtes de Genève motifs.

Both watches come with a brown alligator leather strap, paired with an 18k gold buckle. They are priced at CHF 23,800, approximately AED 95,000 for the 42mm version, and CHF 16,400, approximately AED 68,000 for the 40mm version.

For more information, you can visit IWC’s official website.