IWC Portofino Automatic Watch

This year, the fundamental Portofino Automatic Watch has received a new movement and a larger 40 mm case which, with the evenly rounded sides, makes it appear even slimmer. With three hands and a discreet day display, this classical looking timepiece represents the epitome of good taste.

This exquisite wristwatch, just like other Portofino models, features timeless designs which surpass short-term fashion trends. The automatic watch is powered by a solid self-winding 35110 caliber movement. The impeccable movement provides a sufficient 42 hours of power reserve when fully wound. Being only 3.60 mm thick, it is perfectly appropriate for a slim case, such as this one which is just 9.50 mm thick. The new IWC is protected with convex sapphire crystals which offer antireflective coatings on its inner and outer sides. The case is constructed to resist water pressure up to 30 meters (100 feet).

IWC Portofino Automatic Watch IW356504 Caseback

A Retro-looking Dial

Portofino Automatic wristwatch boasts a vintage-inspired dial. The uncluttered and sleek dial features thin and long hands and indices, Roman numerals 6 and 12, as well as a discrete date display. A little date window is located at the 3 o’clock position. Either silver or black dial provides superb legibility and makes a pleasantly reserved impression.

IWC Portofino Automatic Watch IW356504

As already mentioned, the case is increased in diameter for 2 mm to 40 mm, but thanks to a slimmer bezel and evenly rounded sides of the watch case, the new model now looks much sportier and even lighter.

Five New Outstanding Models

The revised Portofino Automatic is offered in 18-karat red gold and stainless steel. The red gold model IW356504 is decorated with an exceptional engraving on its case back that shows a view of the harbor at Portofino.

This luxury timepiece features a silver-plated dial and a dark brown alligator leather strap. It is priced approximately $10,000 (the retail price is $11,700).

IWC Portofino Automatic Watch IW356501

IWC Portofino Automatic Watch IW356502

IWC from Schaffhausen offered four stainless steel versions. Two of them are attached to black alligator leather straps and there is a choice between a black and a sliver-plated dial (their referent numbers are IW356502 and IW356501). These two models are the most affordable in this line. They can be purchased for about $4,000 each. Two other steel versions are available with new Milanese Mesh steel bracelets in the elegant style of the 1960s. They are made of finely interwoven metal links which combine the stability of a metal bracelet with the flexibility of a leather strap. There is also a choice between a silvered (IW356505) and black dial (IW356506). Whether you choose a black or silver-plated dial, the price is the same – about $5,000.

IWC Portofino Automatic Watch IW356505

IWC Portofino Automatic Watch IW356506

In 2011, the year of Portofino family, IWC renewed this line with two revised (Portofino Chronograph and Portofino Automatic) and one newly developed timepiece (Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days). The Swiss watchmaker from Schaffhausen also announced the fourth timepiece, yet to come, Dual Time Automatic. This exceptional model will be available in March 2012 (I will write about it very soon).

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