Hallmarks of the Portofino collection from IWC Schaffhausen include sophisticated moonphase displays, GMT functions and the stunning 8-day power reserve. The very first model from the family, named after a quaint fishing village in Italy, was launched in 1984 and featured a timeless design which soon became a staple timepiece among the brand’s core collection, and one of the most popular innovations from the Swiss watchmakers by far. Some of the very first IWC Portofino watches spanned a diameter of 43 millimetres, a size considered rather significant for the wristwatch culture of its time.
Both the ladies' and gentlemen’s range of IWC Portofino watches capture the desirability of the Gulf of Tigullio near Genoa in Italy. The destination is a magical attraction which combines a Mediterranean flair with the tranquillity of the quiet backstreets that line the peaceful harbour with delicate-looking red terracotta houses. The collection welcomed the launch of the IWC Portofino Hand-Wound watch in 1993, which featured an ultra-slim dial that graced the design with an authentic contemporary feel. The mechanical chronograph later joined the Portofino collection in 2007, followed by a line of IWC watches powered by the 8-day 59000-calibre.
In 2014, IWC Schaffhausen decided to downscale the size of its Portofino watches, with a men’s and ladies' version that appealed to those with smaller wrists. The watches were not only comfortable for everyday wear, but they also displayed the same beautiful characteristics that were, by now, so respected within the IWC watch culture. The 37mm Moonphase watch was also welcomed into the collection in the same year, which boasted a beautiful cloud scene, hovering on top of a star-studded night sky.
As mentioned earlier, many IWC Portofino watches are embellished with a glistening diamond-encrusted bezel. The feature adds opulence and a rich, luxurious feel to the design, teaming beautifully with diamond dot hour markers and elegant rose gold central hands, accompanied by blue steel sweeping second hands. It is, however, the IWC Hand-Wound Eight Days watch that many enthusiasts consider the star of the show. The blue dial version for example, exhibits stunning deep midnight blue and lustrous silver aesthetics. With a small seconds sub dial at 6 o’clock enhanced by a vibrant red “60” index, a date aperture at 3 o’clock and a proper power reserve display at 9 o’clock, the wearer needs desire very little else. IWC Schaffhausen stamps its authenticity on the finished masterpiece, with the proud brand lettering positioned at the centre of the dial, glistening in a crisp silver hue.
