Introducing recommended IWC chronographs. Explaining how to use them and their appeal.

Chronographs are a highly popular mechanism in wristwatches. They are useful for measuring time, speed, distance, quantity, and more, and are popular with a wide range of users. IWC also has attractive chronographs. Let's take a look at some of the popular classic collections and noteworthy models.

Popular watch features: Chronograph

Many users feel that they need to own a chronograph. Time measurement can be applied in a variety of situations, making it a useful function in many situations.

On the other hand, some people are attracted to the design of chronographs, and while that is one of the criteria for choosing a watch, it would be good to take a moment to review the origins of chronographs, their original functions, and how to use them.

The origin and function of the chronograph

The term chronograph can be summed up simply as a wristwatch with a stopwatch function. The name comes from the Greek words "chronos" (the god of time) and "grapho" (to write, draw, or mark).

It is said that the term came into use when its meaning of "measuring time" was applied to the stopwatch function.

Generally, a small dial called an in-dial is placed inside the dial. Usually, the minute hand makes one revolution every minute. When the time exceeds one minute, the total time hand installed inside the in-dial starts to move, indicating the accumulated time.

There are two types of subdials: a 30-minute counter that rotates once every 30 minutes, and a 12-hour counter that rotates once every 12 hours. There is also a "small seconds" dial and second hand that shows the actual time even while measuring.

How to use the chronograph

Although it may seem complicated at first glance, most models are relatively simple to use.

Let's take a look at the Portuguese Chronograph, a classic example of a watch with chronograph pushers above and below the crown. Pushing the start button at 2 o'clock connects the chronograph mechanism and movement inside the case, starting the chronograph seconds hand on the central axis.

The sub-dial (here at 12 o'clock) displays a totalizer.

In addition, when you want to stop the chronograph, in most cases you can stop the chronograph second hand by pressing the start button again. And even if you have stopped the chronograph once, pressing the start button again will restart the chronograph second hand from the position where it was stopped.

To reset the time to zero, press the reset button at 4 o'clock. Like the Portuguese Chronograph, many models have the start and stop functions assigned to the same button.

IWC's classic chronograph

IWC also has a lineup of chronographs that are both highly functional and elegantly designed.

Let's take a closer look at the company's two classic chronographs.

The beautifully designed "Portugieser Chronograph"

Among the many IWC collections, this is arguably the best-selling collection. Its history began with an order from two Portuguese watch dealers who wanted a large, highly accurate wristwatch.

The model released in 1939 brilliantly met expectations by housing the 38mm diameter pocket watch movement, Cal. 74H4, in a 41.5mm diameter stainless steel case, which was large for the time. This was the prototype of the Portugieser.

The dial layout of the chronograph has been adjusted to give an elegant finish to what would otherwise be a mechanical impression. The popular model, the Portugieser Chronograph, has a small second hand at 6 o'clock and a 30-minute counter at 12 o'clock.

The inset dial, which is nearly half the size of the index, is arranged symmetrically from top to bottom. The contrast between the sharp outer bezel and the inner bezel with quarter-second increments creates an elegant look while ensuring excellent visibility.

The Pilot's Watch Chronograph, with its roots in military watches

Being a pilot remains an aspirational profession, and this collection continues to support pilots as they take on demanding missions in the skies.

The origins of the Pilot's Watch lie in the Royal Air Force's need for a military watch that could be read while flying, and IWC was commissioned to manufacture it.

After successfully developing military watches, the company released the "Special Pilot's Watch" commercial model in 1936. Then, in 48, the company's signature model, the "Mark 11," was born.

The addition of a chronograph function to a pilot's watch dramatically improved its performance as a measuring instrument, greatly expanding the role of the pilot during flight.

If you're looking for elegance, choose the Portofino Chronograph

The Portofino was launched in 1984 and is one of IWC's most elegant and dressy collections.

The name comes from the luxury resort town of Portofino, a fishing village facing the Italian Ligurian coast. The elegant design is reminiscent of this picturesque port, which has also been used as a motif for the sets of theme parks around the world.

While many chronograph watches have a strong tool-like feel, the Portofino's elegant leaf-shaped hands, slender indexes, and not-too-large case allow you to enjoy this mechanism in a classic and timeless way.

The Pros and Cons of Choosing a Chronograph

Chronographs can be used in a variety of situations in real life, but while they have their advantages, they also have disadvantages.

The beauty of a mechanical watch that lets you experience its true essence

The appeal of chronographs lies not only in their functionality as measuring instruments, but also in their mechanical design, which can be said to be the true essence of mechanical watches.

The dial is adorned with distinctive details such as the inset dial and chronograph second hand. In addition, the crown and buttons, which also function as switches, give the watch a precision mechanical feel.

The passage of time can be measured

The ability to measure time down to the second is the chronograph's greatest strength. The Portugieser was developed for Portuguese merchants, and the Pilot's Watch for the air force, and both were developed with the ability to accurately keep time in the harsh environment of the battlefield as a major advantage.

Furthermore, with advances in technology, wristwatches began to be equipped with functions such as a tachymeter, which measures speed in kilometres, a telemeter, which measures distance from the time difference between the speed of sound and the speed of light, and a pulse meter, which can measure pulse rate.

Overhaul costs will be higher

Overhauls are essential to ensure your beloved watch lasts a long time. Regular maintenance will ensure that your watch continues to function accurately.

Chronographs tend to be more expensive to overhaul than standard three-hand models because of the intricate structure inside the case.

In comparison, maintenance costs are about 1.5 times higher than for a three-hand type.

Introducing Popular IWC Chronograph Models

Throughout its history as a luxury brand, IWC has produced watches suitable for use in the air, sea, and land, and in the process has met the demand for chronographs to a high standard.

We have carefully selected and introduced some of the most popular models from the company's collection, which has supported activities in a wide range of fields.

Portuguese Chronograph, Ref. IW371605

The Ref. IW371605 is one of IWC's most iconic models. With a compact case diameter of 41mm, it fits perfectly on any wrist, and the slim bezel makes it appear larger than it actually is when worn.

The dial features Arabic numerals and slender leaf hands, creating a bold yet functional look. The inner ring, marked with quarter-second increments, is a design reminiscent of the origins of the Portugieser.

The see-through case back allows you to see the movement of the robust and accurate in-house movement, Cal. 69355, with its traditionally designed column wheel.

Pilot's Watch Chronograph 41, Ref. IW388102

Until now, the blue dial has only been available on the "Le Petit Prince" model, which is based on Saint-Exupéry's "The Little Prince," but the fact that it has now been adopted for regular models as well, is a point that has been welcomed by many fans.

The dial has a sunray finish, which gives it a dazzling shine when strong light hits it. Conversely, in places with poor light, it takes on a deep blue appearance. This change in color is what makes the blue dial so appealing.

The white display is all coated with luminous paint for high visibility even in dark places. This consideration, with pilots in mind, creates both a military atmosphere and elegant functional beauty.

Pilot's Watch Chronograph Spitfire, Ref. IW387902

This model was the first in the history of IWC's pilot's watches to have a case size reduced to 41mm in diameter.

The compact case is equipped with the Cal. 69380 movement.

Despite its small case, the chronograph movement, with its traditional column wheel design, boasts extremely high robustness.

The dial is colored olive green. It is equipped with a unique brown calfskin strap. The bronze case will develop a patina over time, giving it a more refined appearance.

Portofino Chronograph 39, Ref. IW391503

IWC offers a wide variety of watches within each collection, and this characteristic is still alive and well in the Portofino.

The chronograph collection is available in 39mm (Cal. 69355) and 42mm (Cal. 79320) diameters, and this model is the more minimalist 39mm model with a basic white dial, making it suitable for both formal and casual wear.

Additionally, in 2024, the Portofino Chronograph 39 will be available for the first time on a stainless steel bracelet. The flexible five-link bracelet will provide a comfortable fit.

IWC chronographs are highly acclaimed

Since its founding in 1868, IWC has consistently produced timepieces that are durable, robust, and stylish, and its technical capabilities are also demonstrated in the development of chronographs.

Backed by history, tradition, and skilled craftsmanship, the company's chronographs have earned high praise worldwide. Try one on your wrist and experience its superior performance.