It builds on that legacy with a reworked version of the Portugieser Chronograph, adding an in-house movement and a see-through back. Its latest watch is available in six models that can be acquired through its boutique at The Galleria Al Maryah.
The iconic design, with its clean, open dial, two recessed totalisers and flange with quarter-second scale, remains unchanged. Inside the case of the much-loved chronograph, however, IWC now uses a high-quality in-house movement from the 69000-calibre family, which can be seen through the transparent back.
Not without reason has the Portugieser Chronograph proved to be one of the most popular watches ever to emerge from Schaffhausen. The open, clean, functional dial, with two recessed totalisers at 6 o’clock and 12 o’clock, appliquéd Arabic numerals and slim feuille hands, is encircled by a filigree bezel. The flange, printed with a quarter-second scale, enables precision reading of stopwatch times and gives this timeless Portugieser a subtle, sporty touch.
Externally, the iconic design of the new models, which are grouped under Reference 3716, remains unchanged. The decisive new feature is hidden away inside the watch: the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre ensures the precise display and measurement of time. The rugged, precision chronograph movement with the classic column-wheel design can be seen through the transparent back. An automatic pawl-winding system builds up a power reserve of 46 hours.
The watch is available in six models - four come in a stainless steel case, while two are presented in a 18-carat 5N gold case with gold-plated hands, 18-carat gold appliqués and a black or brown alligator leather strap by Santoni.