TWO NEW MODELS GRACE PORTUGUESE COLLECTION

Nice to see something classic.

Cheers from Isobars.

LOL...LOL...LOL

So I guess all that's left to do is make your "Silver dial" decision.

New Port Chrono....or....Platinum Minute Repeater

EVIL IWC !

I just returned from the boutique where I managed to spend some quality time with the new models. Very nicely executed but the dome effect takes some getting used to.

The Santoni straps are very nice on these models but one thing I noted was that the straps appear to be cuved at the lugs slightly. I know this has been discussed before but it was evidently curved, although I could not tell if it was just the strap, which I suspect it was.

Ardoise dial is a real treat on the steel version.

David - thanks for the nice wrist shot. The 42mm is a perfect size. Can't wait to find it in a local AD.

Greetings Michael,

Yes, the Santoni strap on the new Chrono's are curved or refered to as a integrated end. Take a look at the Portuguese YC model and you will see another example of a integrated strap (in rubber). This setup eliminates the gap between the case edge and the strap end which creates a uninterrupted flow. The Santoni's we are used to seeing so far have the straight end and on the Portofino 8 day HW it looks appropriate as IMO the Porto's portray the look of the 60's and integrated ends were not the design of that era. And, who could argue how great the straight end looks paired with the 5001's.

I hope this info is correct and welcome any feedback if I'm "off base" on my reply. I have not seen the new Chrono in the metal yet so I am commenting solely based on the released pictures.

BTW, I can't wait to see the Ardoise variation in the flesh. I want ( no make that need ) a grey dial in my collection and the new Chrono is crying out to me.

Andy

Andy, the grey ardoise dial is the pick of the bunch from what I viewed today. You are half correct I think on the integration point. Unlike my YC which is fully integrated, the new 3904 shrinks the gap with the curvature but it does not close it entirely. The effect is good though. I think you will like it when you see it. Interestingly, the boutique said they have had them there for about two weeks now so they will be available most places shortly I guess.

I don't know if this is too early to ask but can anyone tell me if the strap would fit my Spitfire (3717)?

I have always suspected the silver faced Spitfire would really 'POP' on a black Santoni and I really like the way this strap 'nestles' into the 42mm case of this rather beautiful new Portuguese Chrono.

Thanks Micheal for the details and for letting me know about the "curved" end and the true fit. Things are always so different when you see them in the metal vs. a photo. That brings me to the question, do you think the straight end Brown Santoni would work well on the new Ardoise Chrono?

I'm in the U.S. so I'll check tomorrow to see if the Boutique near me has them yet. Can't wait to slap on that new Chrono. BTW...does the Ardoise dial give a sunburst effect or is it more a Matt finish ?

Thanks again Michael,

Andy

Both the chrono and the tourbillon are classics. I had the opportunity to handle the chrono and it is really special. Best new IWC since the CFI in 2005. I hope the chrono sells well so the IWC is incentivized to make more watches like this model.
Dan

I love the Chrono (and my checkbook just cried out in intense pain).

I think the brown Santoni would still work great without changing the intended look too much. WRT the ardoise dial, definitely a sunburst effect.

Alright Michael, sounds great. Called the Boutique today. Monday morning is the delivery date for the New Port Chrono's. From the pic's, the black Santoni looks great but I've always been a big fan of a brown strap paired with the Ardoise dial so is the reason for me asking about the "straight end" Santoni. My initial thoughts are not only is this a teriffic looking watch but having two Santoni strap options is "icing on the cake". Whether the final decision is the Ardoise or Silver dial variation, IMHO the Santoni colors will coordinate beautifully with either. Another thought that comes to mind is I'll bet a Dark Blue croc strap would also be stunning with the Silver dial/markers and it's "blued" seconds counter hand.

Am I sounding a bit excited ?

Regards,

Andy