IWC Just Dropped a Limited-Edition Portugieser to Celebrate Chinese New Year
In one month, we’ll celebrate the Lunar New Year—an annual event that often sees a slew of new watches being released with the theme of the Chinese calendar year. This time, we welcome the Year of the Wood Dragon, a combination that only occurs every 60 years. The dragon symbolizes strength and confidence in a way that perfectly aligns with IWC and its iconic Portugieser Chronograph. This dynamic model fully embodies the spirit of the dragon, without (like many others) using a figurative dragon on the dial—a wise choice for this special, but versatile limited edition.
Each year, IWC creates a commemorative watch to honor the Chinese New Year. This limited-edition Portugieser features sweet spot 41 mm sizing and a classic stainless-steel build. In contrast, it showcases a rich burgundy dial that’s beautifully accented by gold-plated hands and indices for a subtle two-tone appearance. The color is another nod to the Lunar New Year, representing the vibrant nature of fire and the promise of longevity and luck for the year to come.
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Inside, you’ll find the IWC-manufactured 69355 caliber with a classic column-wheel design. The movement is fully visible through the exhibition caseback, which includes a final homage to the Chinese New Year. Here, IWC has added a gold-plated rotor that takes the form of an intricately detailed dragon that is discreetly place on the back of the watch rather than the dial for a less ostentatious Chinese New Year nod. In addition, the caseback ring is etched with an engraving reading “2024 Year of the Dragon.” Inside, you will find the IWC-manufactured 69355 caliber with a classic column-wheel design.
The Portugieser Chronograph Year of the Dragon, Ref. IW371629 is complete with the choice of two straps: one in black calfskin and the other in burgundy rubber. The classic black offers a more refined look while the burgundy rubber offers a sporty yet monochromatic alternative. This special edition model is limited to just 1,000 pieces and is priced at $8,450. It’s available today through IWC boutiques, authorized retail partners, or online at IWC.com.
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