IWC Portugieser Chronograph Rattrapante
About This Watch
The IWC Portugieser Chronograph Rattrapante IW371215 in 18k red gold is one of the most technically impressive watches in IWC's current catalog, featuring a split-seconds (rattrapante) chronograph complication. The rattrapante mechanism uses two chronograph seconds hands stacked on top of each other — one can be stopped independently to record an intermediate time while the other continues running, allowing the measurement of two simultaneous events. The in-house caliber 76240 is a hand-wound movement, chosen because the additional complexity of the split-seconds mechanism leaves little room for an automatic winding rotor. The 41mm red gold case provides a luxurious setting befitting the complication's status in watchmaking hierarchy. The silver dial with its vertical bi-compax layout is clean and legible despite the mechanical complexity beneath. A slim pusher in the crown operates the rattrapante function, distinguished from the standard chronograph pushers at 2 and 4 o'clock. The split-seconds chronograph is one of the most challenging complications to manufacture, requiring extreme precision in the coupling and braking mechanisms. IWC's execution at this price point represents remarkable value in the world of haute horlogerie chronographs, where rattrapante models from competitors often cost significantly more.
In-Depth Review
# IWC Portugieser Chronograph Rattrapante Editorial
The split-seconds chronograph represents one of watchmaking's most demanding mechanical complications, and IWC's execution in the Portugieser reference IW371215 demonstrates why the Schaffhausen manufacture commands respect among serious collectors. Introduced in 2020, this 41mm red gold chronograph houses the caliber 76240, a manually wound movement featuring 35 jewels and a respectable 44-hour power reserve. The rattrapante function—allowing independent timing of two simultaneous events via a second chronograph hand—remains a rare complication outside of haute horlogerie collections. The dial's clean silver finish and restrained design aesthetic eschew the fussy complications that plague many contemporary luxury chronographs, instead letting the mechanical sophistication speak through function rather than visual noise. The dark brown alligator strap completes a watch that feels equally at home in a boardroom or behind museum glass.
Ownership of this timepiece appeals primarily to collectors with established horological knowledge and the means to appreciate mechanical complexity beyond marketing narratives. The 30-meter water resistance appropriately reflects its positioning as a dress and desk chronograph rather than a sports instrument. This watch serves those seeking a contemporary addition to their collection without compromising on heritage or complication count, individuals who recognize that rarity and mechanical integrity command premiums regardless of case metal or dial color.
Against competitors like the Zenith El Primero Chronomaster Sport or the Patek Philippe Chronograph 5170, the Portugieser Rattrapante positions itself as the intellectually rigorous choice—less fashionable than the Zenith, considerably more accessible than Patek's offering at current market prices near $27,000, and arguably more refined in execution than either alternative.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Manual |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 76240 |
| Power Reserve | 44 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 35 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 41.0mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 14.5mm |
| Case Material | 18k Red Gold |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Fixed, polished |
| Dial Color | Silver |
| Lug Width | 21mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 51.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 30m / 98ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Dark brown alligator leather strap |
| Clasp | Folding clasp |
| Weight | 125g |
| Complications |