IWC Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon

IWC has introduced a special watch called the Portugieser Chronograph “Year of the Dragon” to honor the upcoming Year of the Wood Dragon in 2024. This watch is a limited edition version of the classic Portugieser Chronograph Ref. 3716, featuring a unique burgundy dial with gold-colored numbers and hands. Burgundy dials have previously made a statement in watches like last year’s Portugieser Automatic 40, so it's no surprise to see it on the Portugieser Chronograph now. The 41 mm diameter case with a height of 13mm is made of stainless-steel with a polished surface and contrasting brushed case sides finish. Mounted to the case is a very thin steel bezel with an equally mirror-like polished finish.On the flip-side is a sapphire exhibition caseback that allows a view into the inner workings of the mechanical movement. The steel rim is engraved with an inscription to mark the occasion “2024 YEAR OF THE DRAGON” and its numbered limited edition. But, the main attraction appears as a gold-plated rotor shaped like a Dragon.It comes equipped with two piston style pushers to operate the chronograph functions, while in-between them is a knurled setting crown embossed with the IWC logo. This model shares a close resemblance to the "Portugieser Automatic," just in a more compact form factor. All topped by a convex sapphire glass with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. Water-resistance can reach up to 30 meters (98 feet).Time is exhibited on a burgundy red dial with gold-plated Arabic numerals followed by a ring of golden dotted hour index markers. Circling around the periphery of the dial on a sloped flange is a gilt printed 60-minute track, keeping a cohesive color scheme.There are two burgundy sub-dials with a snailed interior for a subtle contrast: a hacking small-seconds at 6 o’clock, and a 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock. In Chinese tradition this burgundy hue can symbolize happiness, success, or longevity.All qualities that contribute towards people experiencing good luck. The juxtaposition of burgundy and gold imbue this watch with elegance. The central gold feuille style hands offer the final touch to tie it all together. 

IWC Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon

The “IWC Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon” (Ref#: IW371629) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 69355 with 27 jewels, 212 components, and 28,800 Vph. Power reserve can last up to 46 hours, when fully wound.Mounted on the watch is a black calfskin leather strap with tone-on-tone stitchings, secured to the wrist by a steel pin buckle. It also comes with an additional burgundy rubber strap.This is a limited edition of only 1000 manufactured pieces. For more up to date information visit the official IWC Schaffhausen website here.

IWC Schaffhausen, IWC, Portugieser, Chronograph, Year of the Dragon, Luxury Watches