IWC Portugieser Yacht Club, Orlebar Brown Edition, ref. IW390704, 2020

Dealer description — Vintage Watch Specialist

A Very Handsome IWC Portugieser Yacht Club 'Orlebar Brown' Edition Watch in Almost New Condition, Offered For Sale with its Original Box and Papers, 2020 The IWC Portugieser, a hallmark of sophistication and precision in watchmaking, has an illustrious history that traces back to the late 1930s. Initially conceived at the request of two Portuguese businessmen seeking precise marine chronometer wristwatches, its genesis led to the creation of a timepiece that combined navigational instrument accuracy with elegant design. The first model, the Reference 325, introduced in 1939, was powered by a pocket watch movement, embodying both the accuracy sought by its patrons and a distinctive style characterized by a large dial and Arabic numerals. Over the decades, the Portugieser has evolved while preserving its core identity. The introduction of notable complications such as chronographs, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters has cemented its status as a technical marvel. The IWC Portugieser collection remains emblematic of IWC Schaffhausen's commitment to innovation and excellence in craftsmanship. It represents not just a nod to maritime history but also an enduring legacy in luxury watchmaking. What's on Offer This IWC Portugieser Yacht Club is an Orlebar Brown Edition, a collaboration with the clothing brand that took place in 2020. Crafted from stainless steel with a marine-blue dial, rhodium-plated hands, red chronograph seconds hand, elegantly-proportioned case and a co-branded side-fastener deployment strap, the nautical chronograph, which is water-resistant up to 6 bar is in superb condition - almost mint, and offered for sale with its original 2020 box and papers. The blemish-free dial is encapsulated underneath Sapphire crystal and at 44mm is fairly meaty on the wrist, however, it is surprisingly comfortable. The IWC-manufactured calibre 89361 with flyback function displays the measured hours and minutes together on a subdial at 12 o’clock and has a power reserve of 68 hours. This watch is in superb preowned condition with no visible signs of wear, we would say it is almost mint condition, this is head-turning watch with bags of charisma which any discerning watch lover would be overjoyed to have in their collection.