IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 40 iN Gold

IWC expands its refined Portofino line with the new Automatic Moon Phase 40mm Ref. IW459403, the first full-gold version of the 40mm model without any diamond embellishments. Previously, the only gold-cased moon phase reference in the collection came in the smaller 37mm format with a diamond-set bezel. This new release brings precious metal to the larger case size in a clean, unisex presentation that leans into classic dress watch proportions while maintaining modern wearability.
This new IWC Portofino features a round 40mm case crafted from 18-carat 5N gold, with a refined profile measuring 11.1mm thick. Its fully polished finish enhances the model’s understated elegance, staying true to the Portofino line’s classic dress watch proportions while offering a slightly more contemporary wrist presence.The watch features a solid gold caseback engraved with essential specifications, maintaining a clean aesthetic while offering a traditional alternative to the more common display casebacks found on modern automatics. The overall design language reinforces the collection’s emphasis on timeless simplicity.At 3 o’clock, a fluted push-pull crown provides easy access for winding and time-setting. All topped by a domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides. Water-resistance can reach up to 30 meters (100 feet).
Time is exhibited on a silver-plated dial and presented in a layout that reflects classic dress watch sensibilities. It combines applied gold-plated Roman numerals at 12 and 6 o’clock with slim baton markers for the remaining hours, all framed by a fine minute track printed in black. The hands are leaf-shaped and also gold-plated, harmonizing with the case and indices for a unified aesthetic.At 12 o’clock sits the moon phase complication, set into a blue night sky disc with a golden moon and scattered gold stars. The color contrast draws immediate attention while still feeling cohesive with the dial’s warm metallic tones. It’s a purely decorative complication but one of horology’s most romantic, and here it adds a subtle sense of poetry without disrupting the symmetry of the layout.Notably absent is a date window, which helps preserve the dial’s clean, symmetrical design. The result is a minimal yet refined presentation that prioritizes visual harmony. Combined with the muted luster of the silver plating and the rich tones of the gold accents, the overall effect is one of quiet luxury, unmistakably elegant without being overstated.

IWC Schaffhausen Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 40

The “IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 40” (Ref#: IW459403) is powered by the in-house self-winding mechanical movement, caliber 35800 with 25 jewels, 163 components, and 28,800 Vph. This caliber includes a moon phase complication displayed at the 12 o’clock position. Power reserve can last up to 50 hours when fully wound.Mounted on this watch is a black alligator scaled leather strap with tone-on-tone stitchings, secured by an 18k 5N gold pin buckle. It offers a classic contrast to the warm gold tones of the case, reinforcing the model’s refined character and dress-watch identity. For more up to date information visit the official IWC Schaffhausen website here.