Introducing: The IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar 'Boutique Edition'

April 24, 2020

Making the perpetual calendar is a point of pride for IWC. Ever since the first Kurt Klaus-designed IWC perpetual calendar, which sought to simplify and democratize this lofty high-complication, it's been an important part of the company's catalog. While IWC's perpetual calendars are no longer modules designed to fit atop the humble Valjoux 7750, as Klaus' was, its complicated movements do still enjoy a reputation for durability that fits with the a long-held reputation for making unfussy tool watches.? The watch we have here is powered by one of IWC's 52000 series of movements, which have a well-earned reputation for their robust character and long power reserve (7 days) derived from two barrels. In fact, pairing an extended power reserve (itself a complication) with other complications has long been an IWC hallmark. Movements in the 52000 series such as this one also feature the highly efficient?bidirectional Pellaton pawl winding system, which has been fitted with components made of virtually wear-free zirconium oxide ceramic. Here, it's done up in a large gold case C which, granted, isn't a very "tool watch" presentation at first glance. But even here, the choice of material is telling. Armor Gold is a proprietary alloy of 5N gold that IWC says is five to ten times as wear resistant as conventional 5N gold.? Initial Thoughts In a year that has seen lots of emphasis on the Portugieser, including a welcome new 42mm version of the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar available in three versions (though with a reduced power reserve from what we see here), it's nice to see that IWC has not abandoned the classic 44mm version of this watch, which prominently features the moon phase at 12 o'clock. This is the distinctive design that immediately springs to mind when I think of an IWC high complication. Perhaps the only thing missing is the IWC double-moonphase, with indications for the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.? The Basics Brand: IWCModel: Portugieser Perpetual Calendar "Boutique Edition"Reference Number: IW503312Diameter: 44.2mmThickness: 14.9 mmCase Material: 18-karat Armor GoldDial Color: BlueIndexes: AppliedLume: NoWater Resistance: 3 barStrap/Bracelet: Santoni alligator straps The Movement Caliber: Caliber 52610Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, perpetual calendar with displays for day, date, month, power-reserve indicator, and yearPower Reserve: 7 days (168 hours)Winding: AutomaticFrequency: 28,800 vphJewels: 54 Pricing & Availability Price: $37,900For more, visit IWC.