Technical roots with timeless form
The story of the Portugieser begins in the late 1930s with a clear mandate: a wristwatch with the precision of a marine chronometer. IWC then developed a model that impressed with its size, clarity, and technical precision – thus setting a new design standard.
To this day, the Portugieser's generous case with its slim bezel, a clearly structured dial with a railway minute track, and the characteristic feuille hands are typical. The tourbillon complements this clarity with a visible, fascinating complication – without disrupting the overall appearance. It appears like a natural continuation of the line: technically sophisticated, but never obtrusive.
The tourbillon as the mechanical heart
A tourbillon is one of the most complex complications in watchmaking. The design was originally developed to counteract the influence of gravity on the watch's rate. In the Portugieser, the delicate cage rotates in a smooth, steady motion – visible at six or twelve o'clock, depending on the model.
IWC-manufactured calibers such as the 51900 and 82905 are used – both with automatic Pellaton winding, fine regulation, and up to seven days of power reserve. The integration of the tourbillon requires the utmost precision in manufacturing, particularly in weight balance and fine-tuning. The result is a watch that not only displays technology but also makes it tangible.
Variants with an individual touch
The Portugieser Tourbillon is available in select versions. Depending on the model, the case is made of rose gold, platinum, or stainless steel. Dials range from classic silver to deep blue or shimmering gray. Depending on the reference, additional complications are integrated—such as a moon phase display or even a perpetual calendar. Each model is complemented by a hand-stitched alligator leather strap by Santoni—a fusion of technology, style, and craftsmanship.
