IWC has released two new Portugieser Automatic pieces in a svelt 40mm with two new colours to match, giving the 42mm, 7-day power reserve a little sister!
At Watches and Wonders 2024, the Richemont brand showcased its unique approach to timekeeping design with four new Portugieser Auto 7-Day Power Reserve models and two updated references, embracing its Bahuaus origins once more. However, there’s one question on every small-wristed person’s mind – ‘Do they come in my size?’ Well, worry not, as IWC has you covered.
- White Gold and Light Blue
Rose Gold and Obsidian Black
Ever since making the Portugieser line into a more wearable 40mm back in 2020, IWC has been working tirelessly to further expand its dress watch lineup. This ranged from the original four references to more elegant examples such as the drool-worthy green dial rendition or even the salmon dial drop from a year ago. Now, they look to bring two new wonderful watches into the 40mm fold.
As previously mentioned, IWC’s designers drew inspiration from the principles of Bauhaus, effectively shunning the trendy Art Deco of the 1930s. They prioritized functionality, adopting design elements from traditional watches. The minimalist dial, Arabic numerals, railway-track style chapter ring, and discreet small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock became the iconic silhouette of the Portugieser as we know it today.
The Portugieser Auto 40 encapsulates the essence of this design within the titular 40mm case, standing at about 12mm thick. These two new references have also been given a full redesign, slimming down the case profile to enhance the lightness and elegance of the timepieces. They retain the hallmark elements of the collection, with the clean dial, Arabic numerals and small seconds sub-dial. Additionally, the absence of a date window, whilst somewhat controversial, also helps to maintain the elegance of the watch.
While the Portugieser Auto 7-Day Power Reserve models thematically represent the four stages of the day, IWC has opted to remaster just two of the models, the Horizon Blue and the Obsidian. However, it’s a choice that was made on account of their rapid popularity. Ref. IW358402, the Horizon Blue model, sports an 18kt white gold case and clasp with a light blue dial, whilst the Ref. IW358401 Obsidian model sports an 18kt 5N rose gold case and clasp with a black dial. Both watches do come with leather bracelets, but the Horizon Blue is outfitted with a colour-matching calfskin, with the Obsidian model decked out in black alligator.
The Portugieser Auto 40 is also powered by the IWC Cal. 82200, which not only enables the small seconds sub-dial but also boasts a 60h power reserve. The re-engineered case back allows for an unobstructed view of the movement, but inside the movement is where the mechanical know-how of the Schaffhausen-based company shines through. In the same vein as the larger Portugieser, the Auto 40 is equipped with a Pellaton winding system and a bi-directional rotor, and also comes with vital gears crafted in wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. This results in not only a more efficient winding system but also a greatly reduced wear and tear on the system, reducing servicing intervals and saving the user money – presumably to buy more watches!
Final Thoughts
At Watches and Wonders 2024, IWC has once again underscored its commitment to Bauhaus-inspired design and engineering excellence, evident in the sleek profiles and mechanical precision of these new Portugieser Auto 40 models. While the Portugieser Auto 7-Day Power Reserve models deserve individual merit with their thematic representations, the Portugieser Auto 40 models offer a refined alternative for those with smaller wrists, marking another thoughtful step towards size inclusivity in the world of luxury timepieces. IWC continues to set the bar high in its horological feats, and effectively commands the dress watch crowd – no matter what wrist size you are!
References: IW358402 (Horizon Blue) / IW358401 (Obsidian)
Specifications:
- Case Size: 40.4mm diameter
- Thickness: 12.4mm thickness
- Case Material: 18kt White Gold (IW358402), 18kt 5N Rose Gold (IW358401)
- Case back: Sapphire display Case back
- Dial: Sunray Brushed Light “Horizon” Blue (IW358402), Black “Obsidian”(IW358401)
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal, double box, antireflective coating on both sides
- Water resistance: 50m / 5bar
- Movement: IWC Calibre 82200 Automatic Movement, 4Hz/28,800bph
- Power reserve: 60 Hours
- Strap/Bracelet: Light Blue Calfskin with 18kt White Gold Folding Clasp (IW358402), Black Alligator with 18kt 5N Rose Gold Folding Clasp (IW358401)
Australian Recommended Retail Pricing:
IW358402 (Horizon Blue) – AU $28,000 / IW358401 (Obsidian) – AU $26,500
Prices set out are recommended Retail Prices (incl. all applicable taxes) Price recommendations are indicative and subject to change
