At Watches & Wonders 2024, IWC highlighted the Portugieser collection with new colors and an updated case design. Among the four versions presented featuring this magnificent “Horizon Blue” dial and its matching bracelet, focus on the IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44 (Ref. IW503703).
A redesigned Portugieser case
The changes to the Portugieser case are subtle but effective: thinner bezels and sapphire crystals with a “box” profile that allow these watches to wear a little smaller, at least for this 44mm diameter model. The new Portugiesers are very comfortable and attractive, although IWC engineers can only cope with the inherent size of the movements.
Caliber 52616, an exceptional perpetual calendar movement
Still one of the best perpetual calendar movements on the market, the IWC automatic caliber 52616 is a true powerhouse of performance and value in so many ways. However, this is not a small mechanism, and IWC needs to house it in a larger case. The IWC Perpetual Calendar 44 Horizon Blue sports an 18-carat white gold case measuring 44.4 mm in diameter and 14.9 mm thick (with 50 meters of water resistance).
A complete and readable dial
The general layout of the dial has changed little for this generation of IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar. It includes the time display, the power reserve indicator for the 7-day movement, the moon phases, and a complete perpetual calendar including a current year counter. Enthusiasts appreciate this 4Hz, 168-hour power reserve watch for its extensive list of functions, as well as its robust battery life as an automatic watch (with IWC's efficient Pellaton winding system).
A sky blue Santoni bracelet with the most beautiful effect
The 18-carat white gold case of the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44 Horizon Blue is combined with a beautiful Santoni light blue calfskin strap, fitted with a matching 18-carat white gold folding clasp. The price of this watch reflects the fact that its case is gold, and unfortunately IWC does not currently offer a new version of the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar in a steel case, at least as far as I know.
A golden price for a golden case
Other versions of the newly refreshed Portugieser are offered in steel cases, but not with that blue Horizon dial or IWC's in-house automatic perpetual calendar movement. The price of the IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44 Horizon Blue reference IW503703 is 47,500 USD. To find out more, visit the IWC website.
In conclusion, the IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 44 Horizon Blue is an exceptional watch that combines the best of traditional watchmaking and technical innovation. With its redesigned case, its exceptional perpetual calendar movement and its superb blue dial, it perfectly embodies the spirit of the Portugieser collection. A rare and precious piece that is sure to appeal to lovers of prestigious watchmaking.
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