RADIANT BEAUTIES
For 30 years, the classic elegance of the Portofino Automatic with three hands has held its own in times of ever-changing, short-lived fashion trends. With its new 37-millimetre Portofino Midsize Automatic, IWC Schaffhausen has made the company’s silent star more attractive to watch lovers with slimmer wrists. The ten models with their diamond-set bezels or dials will appeal to buyers seeking puristic design combined with timeless elegance. Three slightly larger Portofino Automatic models, also set with precious stones, perfectly complement the current collection.
When in 1984 a smaller version of the Portofino was pres ented to the public alongside the impressive “pocket watchstyle wristwatch” (Ref. 5251), it had what by today’s standards could certainly be described as modest dimen- sions, with a case diameter of just 34 millimetres. The Mid- size models were highly sought after, especially in Latin Europe, and sold successfully until 2007. Seen in this light, the new 37millimetre Portofino Midsize Automatic models (Ref. 4581) launched in 2014 mark a return to a fine tradition for the Swiss watch manufacturer. The much coveted threehand timepiece now looks perfect on a slimmer wrist – all the more so when it is set with precious stones.
TEN MODELS TO CATER TO EVERY TASTE
The Portofino Midsize Automatic comes in four redgold and six stainlesssteel versions, each of which is available with a diamondset bezel or a slightly more understated variation with 12 jewels on the dial. The sparkling stones are of remarkable clarity and give the watches an exquisite feel, while the design remains sleek and simple. The meticulously finished mirrorpolished case surfaces also lend these timepieces a real air of exclusivity, as does the sunpattern finish on the dials, which makes the light ap- pear to move around in circles when the watch is tilted from side to side. Another eyecatching feature on the new Midsize models is the slightly raised inner circle on the dial – as seen on some members of the Ingenieur family – which adds structure and depth to the watch face. In add ition to the hour, minute and seconds hands, the Portofino Midsize Automatic also features a rapidadvance date display. All of these functions are powered by the 35111 calibre mechanical automatic movement. Pulling out the crown stops the central hacking seconds hand, and the sapphire glass has antireflective coating on both sides to guarantee a clear view of the display. All Portofino watches are tested for waterresistance to 3 bar. Alligator leather straps from Santoni in delicate nuances of colour comple- ment the dial and case of nine of the models perfectly, while reference IW458110 features a Milanaise mesh bracelet. Each timepiece is also available with an elegant 1960s style Milanaise bracelet in highquality stainless steel or 18carat red gold. “Milanaise” is the name used to de- scribe bracelets woven from fine wire that fit snugly around the wearer’s wrist.
DIAMONDS FOR THE BIG PORTOFINO AUTOMATIC
Launched in 2011, the Portofino Automatic (Ref. 3565) with a 40millimetre case and date display will now be joined by three additional models in the new collection, each one featuring a bezel set with precious stones and an alligator leather strap from Santoni. With the redgold model, the buyer has the choice between a silverplated (Ref. IW356515) or slatecoloured (Ref. IW356516) dial. The Portofino Automatic in white gold (Ref. IW356514) is available exclusively with a silverplated dial. The mech anical 35111calibre automatic movement has a power reserve of 42 hours. The case, which is waterresistant to 3 bar, is decorated on the back with an exquisite engraving showing a view of the harbour at Portofino.
