IWC Portugieser Chronograph IW371605 Review
Monday - 24 August 2020
The IWC Portugieser Chronograph reference: IW371605 is one of the most classic-looking wristwatches from the company’s line of 6 models launched at the start of 2020. It belongs to one of the most loved collections of all time, inspired by a pocket watch design equipped with marine chronometer accuracy.
The Portugieser Chronograph first launched during the 1990s and equipped wrists with a large-sized steel case and a calibre supplied from a third party. Later on, the Calibre 89000 series was used in the Portugieser Chronograph, but this particular IW371605 model beats to the rhythm of a movement from the Calibre 69000 series. The timepiece remains remarkably true to the original Portugieser Chronograph with nothing to add or take away from its design.
In 2018 IWC Schaffhausen launched the IWC Portugieser Chronograph Edition “150 Years” powered by the Calibre 69355. Alongside a raft of other commemorative editions. It marked a poignant moment for the manufacture and their gradual move towards crafting their own in-house movements. Fast forward a couple of years later and this very same movement is still in use - this time in the form of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph watch reference: IW371605.
IWC has now called time on sourcing third party movements. What does this mean for you as the wearer? Well, a movement that is manufactured from the ground up makes for a pretty authentic timepiece. It remains similar in architecture to the 75320 movement, modified from the ETA 7750, and comes with an appealing price tag considering the level of work required behind the scenes by expert craftsmen at the company’s Schaffhausen-based facilities. Providing a 46-hour power reserve and a performance of 28,800 vibrations per hours, the sunburst pattern applied to its bridges, along with polished screws can be admired through an exhibition caseback. This viewing lens grants a generous view of the movement whilst in motion.
One of the most intriguing elements of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph is its slim bezel which not only opens up the dial to promote straightforward timekeeping but also creates the impression of a larger case size. The 41mm stainless steel instrument features a bi-compax dial positioned on a 12-9 layout. The sub-dials are balanced beautifully by the “Chronograph” and “IWC Schaffhausen” lettering emblazoned onto the surface of a silver-plated dial at 9 and 3 o’clock respectively. The pushers at 2 and 4 o’clock on the case facilitate easy handling over the chronograph features, thanks in some respects, to the column wheel which promises an overall smoother operation.
At a glance:
- Model number: IW371605
- Case material: Stainless steel (polished bezel / brushed caseband)
- Case diameter: 41mm
- Case width: 12mm
- Dial design: Silver plated with blued Arabic numerals and Feuille hands
- Features: 30-minutes at 12 o’clock / seconds at 6 o’clock / minutes and seconds track around dial periphery
- Water resistance: 30 meters
- Strap: Blue alligator leather with a polished steel IWC-engraved pin buckle
- Movement: Calibre 69355
- Power Reserve: 46 hours
- Frequency: 28,800 V.P.H
- Jewels: 37
- Movement type: Column wheel and pawl winding system
On the whole, this IWC Portugieser Chronograph is a go-anywhere kind of tool that looks classic enough to pair with formal attire but sporty enough to enjoy on the weekend. Its reliability, guaranteed by an in-house manufactured movement, feels extra special when admired through the watch’s transparent caseback. The polished mushroom push-pieces, feeling butter-smooth under the fingertips, contrast superbly against the brushed finishes of the watch’s caseband. You can check out more details on the model IW371605 by visiting the following product page or calling a member of our team to secure a timepiece over the phone.
