The Portuguese is IWC’s most popular and most recognizable collection which dates back to the late 30s. The first model, reference 325, was introduced in 1939 and used the IWC Hunter pocket watch movement, caliber 74 because of its reliability and precision.
In 1995 IWC introduced the split second chronograph reference 3712 which was the world’s first mass production split seconds complication. This model served as inspiration for IWC reference 3714 which became not just the most popular IWC model but also the best selling timepiece of their entire catalog.
The Portuguese reference 3716 is essentially the same in design as the 3714 but with a huge improvement under the hood. This timepiece features the very first IWC’s In House Chronograph movement, caliber 69355. This automatic movement is adjusted in 5 positions and delivers up to 46 hours of power reserve.
The caliber works at 4 hertz using 27 jewels and time can be precisely adjusted thanks to the hacking seconds function. Another great feature of this movement is the chronograph that is equipped with column wheel and vertical clutch.
The case is crafted in 18k rose gold with satin and polished finish and measures 41mm in diameter and 13mm in height. Under the large sapphire crystal is a silver dial with 18k rose gold applied numerals and minute markers along with rose gold hands and eyed catching blue colored chronograph hands. Over the dial is very easy to read and that’s primarily thanks to the the famous IWC chronograph layout that consist of a 30 minute counter at the 12 O’clock position and small running seconds at the 6 O’clock. It’s a well balance dial.
The case comes paired with a very handsome brown alligator leather strap which has a semi gloss finish and on the back an orange calfskin that compliments the brown leather. To give it the final touch, IWC used an 18K rose gold pin buckle.
It is the perfect formal dress watch that comes packed with the latest technology in horology movements.