IWC Portofino Perpetual Calendar: The Return of A Small(er) Mechanical Marvel
It is no secret that IWC has a thing with perpetual calendars. It was the genius of Kurt Klaus, the man who developed the legendary Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar, that this was established. Ever since, this complication has played an essential role in the brand's collections. That makes it so unique that the brand has now welcomed it back into the Portofino line.
The perpetual calendars in this collection have always been the most elegant that the brand has to offer, and the latest version is no exception. It is housed in a 40mm case, available in red gold or stainless steel, a first for the Portofino Perpetual Calendar. IWC also played a bit with the layout of the complication, displaying them on three subdials that are slightly recessed in the dial and surrounded by a gold or steel ring, reminiscent of the Portofino Perpetual ref. 3541. The right subdial displays the date, while the left indicates the day. A small window shows what year in the leap year cycle it is, while the third subdial shows the month as well as the phases of the moon through an opening.
The new Portofino Perpetual Calendar is powered by caliber 82650. This movement offers a 60-hour power reserve and runs at 28,800 VpH/ 4Hz. What is so pleasing about it is not only that it fills the case so nicely but also that all the functions can be operated via the crown. Perpetual calendars can be tricky to set, especially if you don't wear the watch constantly or have it on a winder. Correcting this IWC is as easy as setting the date. An added advantage is also that there is no need for correctors on the side of the case, which increases the visual appeal of these new IWCs.
The stainless steel version of the IWC Portofino Perpetual Calendar retails for $24,000, and its sibling in red gold is priced at $33,500.
To learn more, visit IWC, here
