IWC Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph
About This Watch
The IWC Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph IW390701 bridges the gap between the collection's traditional dress-watch identity and a more sporting, nautical character. Powered by the in-house caliber 89361, this chronograph features a flyback function — allowing the chronograph to be reset and restarted with a single push of the button at 4 o'clock, an invaluable feature in yacht racing where timing sequential legs is essential. The distinctive dial layout places the hours and minutes totalizer in a combined subdial at 12 o'clock, while running seconds occupy the 6 o'clock position. This unusual arrangement, with the chronograph seconds indicated by the central hand, gives the Yacht Club a unique appearance within the Portugieser family. The 44.6mm case is larger than the standard Portugieser Chronograph, reflecting its sportier mission, while the 60-meter water resistance provides additional confidence around water. The blue rubber strap with a textile effect reinforces the nautical theme while offering superior comfort and durability compared to leather. With 68 hours of power reserve and the efficient Pellaton winding system, the caliber 89361 is one of IWC's most accomplished chronograph movements. This is the Portugieser for the active gentleman who values performance alongside elegance.
In-Depth Review
# IWC Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph Editorial
The Portugieser collection has long represented IWC's interpretation of the classic chronograph, and the Yacht Club variant (ref. IW390701) refines this formula for a specific audience: serious sailors and water sports enthusiasts who demand both precision and durability. Introduced in 2020, this 44.6mm stainless steel chronograph pairs a vibrant blue dial with a matching rubber strap—a practical choice that signals its maritime purpose without sacrificing refinement. The in-house Caliber 89361 delivers a commanding 68-hour power reserve and flyback chronograph functionality, allowing sailors to reset and restart timing with a single pusher action. At 15.3mm thick and water-resistant to 60 meters, it strikes a balance between wrist presence and everyday wearability that larger sports watches often struggle to achieve.
This watch targets the affluent collector who actually uses their timepiece in demanding environments rather than treating it as a safe queen. Yacht owners, regatta participants, and professional mariners form the natural constituency, though the blue dial's versatility and the chronograph's utility appeal broadly to those seeking a luxury sports watch with legitimate credentials. The current market price of approximately $11,500—roughly 19 percent below MSRP—reflects realistic pricing in a crowded segment.
Against competitors like the Breitling Superocean Chronograph or TAG Heuer Aquaracer, IWC's offering occupies middle ground: less overtly aggressive than Breitling, more nautically purposeful than TAG Heuer's fashion-conscious approach. The Portugieser's heritage and restrained styling ultimately justify its position as a refined alternative to more generic luxury chronographs.
Specifications
Movement
| Movement Type | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 89361 |
| Power Reserve | 68 hours |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph |
| Jewels | 35 |
Case
| Case Diameter | 44.6mm |
|---|---|
| Case Thickness | 15.3mm |
| Case Material | Stainless Steel |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Bezel | Fixed, polished |
| Dial Color | Blue |
| Lug Width | 22mm |
| Lug-to-Lug | 53.0mm |
Features
| Water Resistance | 60m / 197ft |
|---|---|
| Bracelet/Strap | Blue rubber strap |
| Clasp | Folding clasp |
| Weight | 130g |
| Complications |