IWC Portugieser Automatic

History

In the late 1930s, IWC Schaffhausen received a request from two Portuguese merchants who requested a wristwatch with the precision of a marine chronometer for the captains and officers of Portugal's merchant navy. To fulfil this, Schaffhausen adapted its pocket watch movements, calibres 74 and 98, leading to the creation of a larger wristwatch, first introduced in 1939.

Design and Iterations

The Portugieser's design is distinguished by its large, round case, which offers a clear and easily readable dial. Arabic numerals, slim feuille hands, and a railway-track-style chapter ring are all elements that contribute to its classic appearance. Their watch's minimalistic design, featuring a slim bezel and an uncluttered dial, is a hallmark of IWC's commitment to functional elegance. Over the years, the Portugieser collection has expanded to include various iterations while still maintaining the original's iconic design and introducing unique elements. The Portugieser Automatic offers a balanced dial with a small seconds sub-dial at six o'clock and a power reserve indicator, powered by IWC's Pellaton winding system, ensuring a seven-day reserve. The Portugieser Chronograph enhances the collection with complications such as dual sub-dials positioned at 12 and six o'clock. Meanwhile, the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar stands out with their perpetual calendar function and IWC-manufactured 52610 calibre movement.
The Portugieser Yacht Club takes a sportier approach, incorporating a flyback chronograph and variants like the Moon & Tide, featuring tide and moon phase indicators, including special editions like the "Orlebar Brown" collaboration. Despite their differences, each iteration preserves the Portugieser's timeless elegance and horological precision. Additionally, the collection includes special editions like the Portugieser Grande Complications, combining a perpetual calendar and chronograph, and the Monopusher Edition “Laureus Sport For Good,” limited to 500 pieces. Despite their differences, each iteration preserves the Portugieser's original design while offering unique features that appeal to different watch enthusiasts.