Manufacturer: IWC Year: Circa 1996 Reference No: 3712 Case No: No. 088/250, 2'669'948 Model Name: Portuguese, Chronograph Rattrapante Material: Platinum Calibre: Manual, cal. 76240, 27 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Black IWC crocodile strap Clasp/Buckle: Platinum IWC buckle Dimensions: 41mm diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: With IWC undated International Guarantee, instruction booklets and presentation box.
Catalogue Essay
The Portuguese is a watch that draws attention with its oversized case and clean modern dial, and is one of the most recognizable watches one can wear. Its story dates to the 1930s when two Portuguese businessmen approached the firm and requested they make a large size stainless steel watch that could house a marine chronometer movement. IWC accepted the challenge and used a pocket watch movement as their starting point. Its large size, while avant garde for the day, is the perfect size for the 21st century.
Number 88 of 250 examples, the present watch is in excellent condition and has a clean modern look on the wrist.
With a clear focus on technology and development, the Swiss watch manufacturer IWC Schaffhausen has been producing timepieces of lasting value since 1868. The company has gained an international reputation based on a passion for innovative solutions and technical ingenuity. One of the world's leading brands in the luxury watch segment, IWC crafts masterpieces of haute horlogerie at their finest, combining high precision with masculine design. Vintage wristwatches such as the oversized Portugieser, Aquatimer, Ingenieur and the B-UHR pilots watch are especially desirable for collectors.