IWC is once again under the spotlight with the Portugieser Chronograph, the model family that blends sportiness with elegance. The model we selected for review, Ref. IW371482, attracts attention with its 18K gold case and tastefully arranged color palette.
Considered one of the most successful representatives of the classic IWC style, Portugieser has long preserved its place among the brand's best-seller product groups. The model we selected for review, Ref. IW371482, comes from the sporty-themed chronograph sub-group of the model family.
The stylish model comes in a sporty case designed with a diameter of 40.9mm and a height of 12.5mm. The case, which is mainly designed with polished surfaces, is made of 18K 5N gold alloy. A pair of piston-style chronograph pushers and an IWC signed crown accompanies the case, which stands out with its thin bezel and short lugs. The case, preserving its sporty character with its thick textured matte surface form used on the sides, can withstand water pressure up to 30 meters.
Without a doubt, one of the most striking parts of the model is the tastefully put together dial. Designed with a dark slate ground color and sunray pattern, the dial takes on various color tones under the light coming from different angles. There are two chronograph counters on the dial, accompanied by Arabic numeral indices and leaf style hands suitable with the case material. The dial comes in the Bi-Compax chronograph layout with sub-dials located at 12 and 6, rarely seen nowadays, also refers to the history of the model family with this feature.
The model is powered by the manufacture Caliber 79350. Automatic chronograph movement, operating at a frequency of 4Hz (28.800vph), offers up to 44 hours of power reserve when fully wound. The movement, which is wound by an IWC signed perforated rotor, draws attention with its Côtes de Genève decoration as well as hand-beveled components. The 31-jewels / 272-part caliber can be viewed through the sapphire crystal case back.
This stylish model, which I think has the most successful color theme of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph model family, is accompanied by a matte black alligator strap and an IWC signed 18K 5N gold pin buckle. Various versions of the same model family with different color and material options are also included in the collection.
