I am big iwc fan and have 2 portifinos. I looking forward to buy the 3714 portugese And I have 2 questions in regards to the same. 1- when was 3714 model launched? 2- and I heard that 2013 will be year of portugese model relaunch ?
It would be great help if someone can clarify these for me. Thanks in advance Jeetendra.
Jeetentra, I've also got a portofino -3565- but really want the Portuguese Chrono. I'm not sure if it will change much in 2013. I've heard that IWC is looking into revamping the Ingenieur line (corrections welcome).
The Portuguese Chrono 3714 may well be altered with new size and the movement from the Potuguese Yacht Club which is in house and has a date. The 3714 has been around for over a decade, this may decide its had it's day as although popular it is getting on. If you like it grab it and some have added the Portofino mesh bracelet to it, ideal for sweaty conditions. 2013 will not include a revamp of the Portuguese family in general.
Oh, if you ask what what I like most..... It's picking up your new IWC you have long been thinking about. Opening up the box for the first time.... It's yours!
Greetings Jeetendra and welcome to the Forum. Your interest in the 3714 is totaly understandable as it is truly a design marvel. The "flared" dial, vertical sub-dials and "blued" counter hands ( depending on variation ) make this a very stunning piece.
I believe the 3714 was introduced back in 95/96 and has been quite the success story. I acquired this model ( SS w/RG markers ) in April of this year and enjoy the fit and size since my wrists are a bit on the smaller side. When first introduced, it's 40.9mm diameter was considered large. What I can tell you is that while it's diameter by today's standards is no longer considered large, because of the dial design, it wears bigger than it actually is. For 2012, the 3714 was upgraded to a deployant strap. In addition, your Boutique/AD can show you in their workbook, numerous shades of croc straps unique to the 3714 ( pin buckle only ).
Hope this information is of help and wish you all the best in acquiring the Portuguese Chrono. BTW, which variation are you considering?
Hi Melchior , Quite right about the feeling of opening the box.
And dear Andy. Thanks for your time and comments I plan to pick either the one in gold case or in steel , Fortunately I am in a position of picking up the gold case one. But I am little scared whether it would look little flashy. As I maintain a low profile. What do u think. ? Thanks jeetendra.
I didn't think the portuguese line was due for another revamp. Didn't they have one several years ago with the changed dial (applied numerals) and new strap/clasp?
edit: just saw the ingenieur. the titanium looks like a tank but doesn't it resemble too much like an AP or Hublot?
First, I must tell you that I am not much of a "gold guy" for the very reason you bring up, being to flashy. IMO, gold cases in general border on being a attention getter. That said....Gold as in "Yellow Gold" , definetly flashy/blingy . Rose Gold and Red Gold are better choices and fortunately IWC uses those gold options. Now if we're talking White Gold, count me in.
I do however like a bit of RG in combination with a steel case and that is why I went with the 3714 Steel/RG markers. Again, IMO, a steel case presents the piece as more casual and the touch of gold handles semi-dress occasions perfectly. I wanted to bring out the blued counter hands on mine, so I swapped out the OEM Black croc strap for the deep Navy Blue croc and that subtle change made for an amazing look. Best I can tell you Jeetendra, bottom line for me is that when considering the Portuguese Collection, the Chrono model suggests "sportiness" and for me that calls for a stainless case. Just seems like the right fit. The YC is another example of a Portuguese Chrono model that I think looks best in the stainless case and WOW, what a beauty that one is.
Whichever variation you choose, the 3714 is a great choice. Being in a position to have the choice of Gold or steel allows you the opportunity to pick the one that makes the heart skip a beat.
If you are more comfortable staying below the radar, steel is probably the answer. Have lots of fun making your decision and let us know how it turns out with a nice wristshot.