A design instantly recognisable
When IWC introduced the Portugieser Chronograph in 1998, it quickly established itself as one of the most elegant models within the collection. Its design is built around a carefully balanced composition: a spacious dial, two vertically aligned sub-dials and a discreet quarter-second scale placed on the inner flange.
Over time, this layout has become a defining characteristic of the Portugieser Chronograph. It offers excellent legibility while maintaining a refined and harmonious aesthetic. The watch has since evolved into one of the pillars of the IWC catalogue, appreciated for its ability to combine classical elegance with a sporty spirit.
With this new edition, the manufacture offers a fresh interpretation of this distinctive silhouette. For the first time, the Portugieser Chronograph appears in a fully black execution, an approach that highlights the pure lines of the case and the architecture of the dial. In this monochrome configuration, the design feels even more focused, allowing the distinctive shape of the chronograph to take centre stage.
Ceratanium®, a signature IWC material
One of the most remarkable aspects of this new Portugieser is the use of Ceratanium®, an innovative material developed by IWC to push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking materials.
Ceratanium® is based on a special titanium alloy that undergoes a high-temperature treatment process. During this transformation, the surface of the material acquires properties similar to ceramic, resulting in a case material that combines the lightness of titanium with the hardness and scratch resistance of ceramic.
In the Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium, this material is used for the 41-millimetre case, as well as for the crown and chronograph pushers. Its dark, slightly metallic appearance reinforces the contemporary character of the watch while ensuring a cohesive and refined aesthetic throughout the design.
A monochrome dial with subtle depth
The all-black philosophy of the watch continues on the dial. IWC has chosen to maintain a fully monochromatic colour palette, where the various elements are distinguished through subtle textures and relief rather than strong contrasts.
The applied Arabic numerals, indices and hands are all executed in black, creating a refined visual harmony. This approach enhances the minimalist character of the design while preserving the legibility that has always defined the Portugieser Chronograph.
The two chronograph counters remain vertically aligned at twelve and six o’clock, a configuration that has become a hallmark of the model. Together with the delicate quarter-second scale, they immediately evoke the classic architecture of the Portugieser.
The watch is paired with a black rubber strap featuring a subtle pattern, which complements the modern aesthetic while ensuring excellent wearing comfort.
The IWC manufacture calibre 69355
Powering the Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium is the IWC manufacture calibre 69355, an automatic chronograph movement designed with reliability and robustness in mind.
The movement features a column-wheel chronograph mechanism, a traditional construction appreciated by watch enthusiasts for the precision and smoothness it brings to the chronograph operation. Each press of the pushers delivers a crisp and controlled tactile feedback.
Operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement provides a power reserve of approximately 46 hours. The automatic winding system with a double-pawl mechanism ensures efficient energy build-up during daily wear.
Visible through the sapphire glass case back, the movement adds another dimension to the technical appeal of the watch and highlights IWC’s commitment to combining engineering excellence with refined watchmaking craftsmanship.
A limited edition with strong character
The Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium IW371631 is produced in a limited edition of 1,500 pieces, enhancing its appeal among collectors and enthusiasts of the Portugieser line.
With this monochrome reinterpretation of one of its most iconic designs, IWC once again demonstrates its ability to evolve its classics while preserving their original identity. The combination of timeless design and advanced material technology gives this Portugieser a distinctive presence within the collection.
More broadly, the watch reflects the philosophy that has guided the Schaffhausen manufacture for over 150 years: creating timepieces that unite elegance, technical innovation and enduring reliability.
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