Introducing The IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic, An Aesthetic Offering With 8-day Power Reserve

January 05, 2015

More often than not, we expect to cover IWC of the sporty variety. Of the handful of IWC watches that weve covered this year, theyve mostly been Pilots models, Ingenieur racers, or the astronomically complicated Sidrale Scafusia. As great as those offerings may be, IWCs latest release of its Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic is a solid offering that further establishes balance to the manufactures lineup.IWC offers the Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic in two metals C 18 carat red gold (ref. IW511101) and stainless steel (ref. IW511102). The case is polished, and has a thin bezel and even thinner lugs. The feuille-design of the hands is slightly more rounded than usual (and, therefore, perhaps more refined). Applied batons and sans-serif numerals are aimed at pleasing purists, and do a good job of complementing the ever-so-slightly off-white, silver-plated dial. Finally, the printed minute markers along the perimeter seem to add a touch of functional grace C especially given the lack of a second hand. Most purists may have a problem with the 43.5 mm diameter of this Classic-themed watch, but its front glass has an arched edge, which we hope will make the model look/wear smaller than its spec sheet. Around the back, an expansive sapphire crystal reveals IWCs caliber 59060. This manually wound manufacture caliber has an impressive 192 hours (8 days) of power reserve. And speaking of power reserve, the indicator is located on the back at about 4 oclock. To focus on robustness, the movement is hidden almost in its entirety by two large bridges, leaving only the balance unconcealed. The upper bridge bears the barrel, winder and differential, and the lower bears the power reserve indicator and hides the train-wheel bridge. Without a doubt, theres solid chamfering, Geneva Stripes are applied throughout, and perlage is found below. The gold and stainless steel versions are offered on brown and black-leather straps with orange inner-lining that are made by the distinguished Italian shoemaker Santoni. The IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic is an aesthetic, but nevertheless robust addition to IWCs dressy lineup. The US pricing is $10,400 in stainless steel, and $19,900 in 18k red gold.For more information, visit IWC online.