HANDS-ON: The IWC Portugieser Chronograph Edition “150 Years”
Felix ScholzIWC’s Portugieser line is, in Australia at least, one of their most popular — and, of all the models, one of the perennial favourites is the classically handsome Portugieser Chronograph.
Which is why we’re particularly interested in the Portugieser Chronograph Edition “150 Years”. Quick recap in case you’ve been living under a rock for the last week or so: This year, IWC turns 150 (and we don’t mind saying that they’re looking quite good for their age), and one of the ways they’re celebrating the big occasion is with watches. Specifically, 27 special limited editions, released across five key lines.
Now, the Portugieser Chronograph may lack the high-end clout of the Constant Force, or the novel display of the Pallweber, but it is, nonetheless, an important model. Like all the models in this jubilee collection, the chrono is offered in two special, heavily lacquered dials in blue or white that do a fine job of evoking the look of enamel. There are not precious metal options; only steel, and both come on a black alligator strap.
So, nice dial aside, what makes this watch special? Well, the movement. Typically, Portugieser Chronos have closed caseback, as they’re powered by a Valjoux. Not so here. The IWC Calibre 69355 is on full display, with a nice commemorative gold medallion on the skeletonised rotor. This movement is a column wheel chrono, good for 46 hours, and some of the high-wearing components have been made from ceramic, for increased durability.
Each dial variant is a generous limited edition run of 2000 watches, though we suspect these models will be quite popular, as they combine the versatility of the 41mm steel chrono, with its leaf-shaped hands and exceptionally legible design, with a dial that’s a cut above, and a superior movement to boot. All for a price that’s very much in keeping with the regular production Portugieser Chronographs. Here’s hoping that this movement upgrade is rolled out into the general collection soon.
IWC Portugieser Chronograph Edition “150 Years” Australian pricing and availability
IWC Portugieser Chronograph Edition “150 Years”, in steel with blue or white dials, each limited to 2000 pieces, $11,300.
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