The IWC Portugieser Tourbillon Day and Night ref. IW545901 is a sophisticated timepiece that showcases exquisite craftsmanship and technical prowess. This watch features a one-minute flying tourbillon that graces the black obsidian lacquered dial at 6 o’clock. Then, at 9 o’clock a day and night spherical indicator —referred to as Antipodean Display by IWC— adds an artistic and intriguing touch that is somewhat reminiscent of De Bethune's spherical moon indication.
Things to Know About the Watch
The black obsidian lacquered dial is finished with a beautiful sunray pattern and with applied gold Arabic numerals, one of the usual design elements of the IWC Portugieser collection. The new IWC Portugieser Hand-Wound Tourbillon Day & Night is equipped with a 42.4 mm case in 18K Armor Gold —an innovative alloy that elevates the hardness values of gold to a whole new level and makes this comparatively soft, precious metal much more resistant to external influences such as dings or scratches.
Thanks to an improved microstructure, Armor Gold is significantly harder and more wear-resistant than conventional 5N gold. With its warm tones and generous case size, this watch makes a bold statement on the wrist while exuding elegance and refinement. Additionally, the watch is water resistant to 60 meters.
The blend of classic Portugieser elements with modern enhancements exemplifies IWC's commitment to innovation and tradition in watchmaking. The watch is relatively slender at 10.8 mm despite the intricate complications that are included in this watch with a new way of indicating night and day.
The Movement
Turning the watch over reveals the exquisitely and intricately finished manual wound movement calibre 81925. This 195-part and 22-jewel movement provides an outstanding power reserve of 84 hours —3.5 days— when fully wound while beating at a frequency of 28,800 vph. On the back, one can see the spherical day and night indicator where one half is black —nighttime— and the other half is gold —daytime. The movement is perfectly finished with circular Côtes de Genève and snailing on the mainspring barrel.
On the Wrist & Price
On the wrist, this new watch wears true to its size and with stunning wrist presence. The new Portugieser Hand-Wound Tourbillon Day & Night exudes elegance on the wrist with its classic yet refined design. The striking obsidian black dial with its sunray finish beautifully contrasts with the mirror-polished Armored Gold case and its warm tones, creating a luxurious aesthetic.
The generous 42.4 mm case size commands attention without making it appear like the watch is too much. This is a versatile timepiece suitable for both formal occasions and everyday wear. The intricately finished flying tourbillon at 6 o'clock along with the new day and night spherical indication, adds a touch of horological sophistication and mystery.
The watch is delivered on a black alligator Santoni strap —orange lined— with a folding clasp matching the metal of the case. Overall, the new Portugieser Hand-Wound Tourbillon Day & Night makes a statement on the wrist, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern style effortlessly.
Sticker Price USD 79,300. For more info on IWC click here.
