IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled a new version of the Portugieser Automatic 40, with an aesthetic that is both modern and classic. The first Portugieser Automatic 40 was added to the collection in 2020 and brings back a puristic design of the original Portugieser from the late 1930s. However, the movement of the latest model has been housed in a more compact and lighter case than its predecessors.
The new Portugieser Automatic 40 (Ref. IW358313) features a robust stainless steel-case. The case measures 40 mm in diameter and 12.4 mm in height, making this Portugieser is one of the more manageable and compact variants compared to its complication-laden predecessors. This wearable case size represents a refreshing reimagining of the original Portugieser design from the late 1930s, which was a larger diameter of 43 mm.
Furthermore, the watch is equipped with a curvaceous scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, which is anti-reflective on both sides. The caseback is transparent, allowing a view of the IWC-manufactured 82200 calibre. Overall, the design of the case corresponds to a modern yet timeless design. The case is also water-resistant to 30 m.
In 2020, a new dial composition was introduced on the Portugieser Automatic 40. Ever since then, IWC has made the design decision to opt for small seconds at 6 o’clock rather than 9 o’clock. In addition, the rhodium-plated hands and accents of the dial give the watch a classic but sophisticated look, while the salmon-coloured design of the dial is the most eye-catching detail of the new version. The sleek design of the Portugieser and the striking sunburst look accentuate the modern colour beautifully well.
Powering the Portugieser Autmatic 40 is the resilient IWC manufacture 82200 calibre. The movement is based on the IWC 82110 calibre, which has also been put in previous models of the Portugieser as well the Da Vinci collection. This automatic movement features the winding system developed in the 1950s by former IWC-Maison technical director Albert Pellaton, with a pawl winding mechanism. These winding pawls are made of virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic, which protect the movement from wear and tear over the years. Last but not least, the movement is operated at a frequency of 4 hertz and offers a power reserve of 60 hours.
The salmon-coloured Portugieser Automatic 40 comes with a black alligator leather strap with butterfly folding clasp. Under the `My IWC Care Program`, customers can benefit from a six-year extension of the standard two-year international limited warranty. This programme offers owners an exclusive range of services, including regular maintenance and servicing by IWC.
The IWC Portugieser Automatic 40 will initially be available exclusively in the United Arab Emirates from February, before being offered worldwide from April. The watch can be purchased exclusively in IWC boutiques, from authorized retail partners, or online at the IWC-Homepage. The price of the salmon-coloured Portugieser Automatic 40 ( Ref. IW358313) is 7,700 euros.
