IWC Schaffhausen’s latest release, the Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse, serves as an apt celebration of both tradition and innovation. Marking the beginning of the Chinese Lunar Year of the Horse, this limited edition is restricted to 500 pieces and distinguishes itself with characteristic sophistication and distinct nods to auspicious symbolism. As ever with IWC, engineering prowess aligns beautifully with cultural homage, culminating in a timepiece that’s both technically compelling and aesthetically enthralling.
The dial unfolds a striking presence, directed by a deep burgundy tone evocative of the rich reds so integral to Lunar New Year festivities. Here, IWC exercises restraint with balance: golden hands glide elegantly above the dial, punctuated by Roman numerals and appliques that lend both warmth and depth. The small seconds sits at 9 o’clock, harmonising opposite the power reserve indicator at 3, a design layout rooted in early Portugieser Automatic references. At 6 o’clock, a discrete date window is integrated seamlessly, maintaining the uncluttered visage. The dial’s presence is undeniably celebratory, with its colour and detailing inviting closer inspection and appreciation, especially as the light plays across the domed, anti reflective sapphire crystal.
Within, the movement commands respect for both its architecture and technical features. The IWC-manufactured calibre 52011 operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), with 31 jewels set into its structure. Pivotal to its performance is the Pellaton automatic winding system. It is efficient, wear-resistant components made from ceramic facilitate bidirectional winding and feed energy into twin barrels. The result is a robust power reserve of 168 hours, supporting seven days of autonomy. Visible through the sapphire display back, the gold-plated rotor, realised in the shape of a galloping horse, not only commemorates the Lunar New Year but serves as a dynamic focal point for the movement’s festivities. Hacking seconds, a useful date display, and a power reserve underscore the movement’s practicality and refinement.
The case is resolutely substantial yet assuredly refined, executed in stainless steel with a diameter of 42.4 millimetres and a height of 13 millimetres. The design is enhanced by a slender side profile, granting wearability without sacrificing presence. Box-shaped sapphire crystals on both the front and back accentuate the watch’s sense of clarity and space, whilst ensuring durability. Water resistance is rated to 5 bar, ensuring suitability both for everyday and more adventurous occasions. Owners have the flexibility to alternate between a classic black alligator strap and a burgundy counterpart, each fastened with the robust stainless steel folding clasp provided with the watch. The material palette conveys both luxury and versatility: stainless steel, burgundy dial, gold-plated hands, and alligator leather.
To close, the Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse is a fitting tribute to its inspiration, executed with the hallmarks of engineering and finishing that define IWC Schaffhausen. The movement, rotor design and dial colour composition come together in a singular vision that celebrates both watchmaking and culture. The brand continues its trajectory of sustainable practice, employing responsible material sourcing and minimising environmental impact across its portfolio. As it steps into the new lunar cycle, IWC crafts a piece that both commemorates and looks forward. The IWC Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse is a collector’s delight with poise, technical acumen, and undeniable charm. It comes with a price tag of 15’300 €.
