Just got my first IWC: Portugueser Chronograph Classic (IW390403)

Hi everybody,

My first time on a watch forum. I just figured this would be the place to share some excitement and kind words on the Portugueser Chronograph Classic. 

I have loved this watch for a while, but the steep price (at least to me) was a deterrent. I ended up connecting with an owner looking to update his collection, and the price was right, so I received the box, warranty card, cloth, and watch. (No watch-specific guide, unfortunately.)

Like a lot of people, I continued reading up on this, the in-house movement, and general watch forum thoughts for a bit of confirmation bias. Something that can happen with a big decision like this!

For all you small-wristed people out there, I am roughly 6.75, so this 42mm is bigger than I am used to since I normally wear around 34-36mm. The domed crystal does help it wear a little smaller, though it certainly has some heft. I personally found this version more attractive than the newer version with blue numbers. I guess personal preference.

I also included two photos of it on my wrist: one from a classic angle (which, in my opinion, always makes watches look huge), and one in front of my body, which I think is a fairer representation of how it looks. Still big, bit not as huge as the other pic looks.

Finally, I suppose I have a tiny request: my seller is a private watch collecter, and his warranty card does match the serial on my watch. I do believe it is legitimate, but I figured you can never be too safe. This forum seems to have a good rep for finding counterfeits, so if something seems off, please do let me know. I imagine it would be hard to replicate the flyback machanism, but maybe I'm a little naive.

For anybody considering this watch, feel free to pepper me with questions! Your insight on here has been so helpful. I'm more than happy to return the favor in any way I can.

Thanks!

Welcome!!! and Congratulations! very Very VERY nice first IWC you have there!!

Portuguese Chrono Classic is a beautiful watch - Congratulations. 
The serial number on the card and the watch must match.

Perhaps the seller put the wrong card in the box. Have you checked with the seller??

Congratulations. The IW3904 was also my first IWC, but not the white one but the one in grey/ardoise (IW390404). But I must say, the white verison also looks great. I especially like the blue hand for the chronograph seconds.

To me, your watch looks absolutley legitimate.

Greetings
Philipp

Welcome to the Forum Porchy. Great IWC choice, the 1st generation Port Chrono Classic. My preference like yours for the 3904  is based on the dial configuration. I think the "sportiness" stemming from the chapter ring layout speaks to an era when timing things like classic 50-60's race cars was prevalent. Another little dial touch that IWC does so well is a splash of color. Love that tiny bit of Red at the 60/12 marks.....Perfect!  While I like the newer Classic Chrono variation in general, the simplified dial reminds me more of the " Hand Wound " model and would go for that if I wanted a cleaner dial look. 

Regarding the 42mm size, like you too, I have a 6.75" wrist. Because of the curved lugs, step up bezel and arched domed glass, it wears visionally smaller. I find also that the straight on front view more accurately represents the truer fit.  Agree that this watch does have height and heft, but sits well on my flat wrist without feeling top heavy. Hope the same for you. The " sweet spot " size wise for me is 40mm and under. 36-39mm is ideal, but will say that I have some 42-44mm that wear smaller due to case/ dial / lug design.... mostly " diver styles ".

I say this every time I weigh in on this reference. While I understand you can't go wrong with a Black strap, in this case, the OEM Santoni Black strap is too glossy and formal. True, as the strap wears,  some of the luster will dull to a more mat look. But IMO, the stark contrast of the gloss black against the silvery-white dial is not to my liking especially since the sportiness of the dial I think calls for something more subdue/ casual. Try replacing the black with the IWC deep blue croc strap. What a subtle difference. It makes it less formal, goes with both dressy and causal attire and best of all, really makes that beautiful blued " center counter " hand just pop. Looks amazing. Playing with the idea that a " Rallye " vintage style blue or tan strap might also make for a nice pairing. 

Enjoy your new 3904. You made a great decision.........Finally, Mine says Hi !

Best,

Andy

Huge congratulations on your first IWC. It is an amazing watch and as a first you have hit a true homerun. Well done!