The first Portugieser chronograph with a Ceratanium composite case.
IWC has introduced a new model in the Portugieser collection. This novelty is notable for being the first chronograph in the collection with a case made from the high-tech material Ceratanium.
Until now, chronographs in the Portugieser collection were offered exclusively in steel, gold, and (rarely) platinum. IWC has avoided innovative materials in this line. This model breaks with that tradition, although the design and proportions of the watch remain the same as in the classic version - Ref. 3716.
With a diameter of 41 mm, the case thickness is 13 mm, and the lug-to-lug distance is 48 mm. The watch retains such features of the Portugieser models as the wide bezel, mushroom-shaped pushers, and convex sapphire crystal. Water resistance remains symbolic - 30 meters.
Recall that Ceratanium is a titanium alloy fired in a furnace at high temperatures. It combines the lightness and strength of titanium with the hardness of ceramic and its scratch resistance. In this watch, not only the case but also the crown, pushers, and caseback are made from Ceratanium. To match the dark surface of the composite, the sapphire insert in the caseback is partially tinted.
The restrained design of the model is supported by a matte black dial with black hands. Fortunately, the hands and hour markers are polished, which, at certain angles, creates a semblance of contrast. Nevertheless, in terms of readability, the dial will be problematic, as there is clearly a lack of color accents for the owner's convenience.
The watch is powered by the IWC 69355 in-house caliber. This is an automatic chronograph with a column wheel, providing a 46-hour power reserve at a balance frequency of 4 Hz. The novelty is offered with a textured rubber strap with a Ceratanium buckle.
The IWC Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium (Ref. IW371631) will be released in a limited series of 1500 pieces. The estimated price of the watch is €14,800.