Introducing The IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

Introducing The IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

Arthur Touchot
By Arthur Touchot January 15, 2015

Perhaps the most creative watch brands are those that make the complicated simple. If that is true, none are more creative than IWC Schaffhausen.

SIHH 2015 Preview: IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

Following the launch of the Portofino Midsize collection, an incredible endeavor that put the brand’s star line on the wrist of those in Hollywood, IWC returns with a modest design worthy of an Oscar-winning speech.

SIHH 2015 Preview: IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

In fact, the Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic is sure to make a lot of purists very happy, as minimalism and discreet elegance take center-stage.

SIHH 2015 Preview: IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

Two hands and a winding crown. That’s what the Pure Classic offers, and after all, that is all one needs in a watch. That and a large power-reserve, which the IWC hand-wound 59060 calibre has in spades; running continuouslty for precisely 192 hours or 8 full day, similar to the IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Eight Days.

SIHH 2015 Preview: IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

Otherwise, there is little to distract from the model’s clean lines. In fact, the only sign of its contemporary edge is the size of the watch. At 43.5mm, it measures quite a bit more than vintage pieces, although the case is rather slim at 12mm and wears smaller than one might imagine.

SIHH 2015 Preview: IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

The Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic is available in an unlimited edition exclusively at selected IWC boutiques in stainless-steel with a black leather strap (Ref. IW511102) for approximately $11,000; or in red gold with a brown leather strap (Ref. IW511101).

SIHH 2015 Preview: IWC Portofino Hand-Wound Pure Classic

As with the Portofino Midsize collection the straps are made exclusively for IWC Schaffhausen by Santoni, and bear the renowned Italian shoe manufacturer’s signature orange leather lining.

Photo Credit: Haute Time. For more information, please visit the official IWC website.