IWC Schaffhausen has unveiled the Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph, a limited edition of just 100 pieces. This sophisticated timepiece features several complications, including a flying minute tourbillon, retrograde date display, and flyback chronograph. Its 43.5 mm case, pushers, and crown are made from 18-carat Armor Gold®, a proprietary alloy with superior hardness. The Obsidian-coloured dial, achieved through a 60-step process and 15 layers of lacquer, creates remarkable visual depth. Gold-plated hands, solid gold appliques, and a black alligator leather strap from Santoni complete the look
The flying minute tourbillon, positioned at 6 o’clock, is made up of 56 parts and weighs just 0.675 grams. Housed in a rotating cage, it reduces the impact of gravity for improved precision. It also features a stop mechanism for exact time-setting. Key components like the escape wheel and pallet lever are crafted from silicone and coated with IWC’s friction-reducing Diamond Shell® technology, supporting the movement’s 68-hour power reserve.
Additional functions include a retrograde date display at 9 o’clock, which resets at the end of each month, and a flyback chronograph at 12 o’clock that instantly restarts timing with a push of a button. The in-house 89900 calibre movement contains 375 parts, with Geneva stripes and circular graining, and is visible through the sapphire case back.
