Why is it that some people underestimate the Portofino chronograph?

Greetings from Greece.
Let me start by saying that my first encounter with the IWC brand, and I use the term in its full meaning as an advertising professional, was with the Portuguese family of watches. Elegant and sporty at the same time, it immediately entered my wish list. Years later, and having owned some watches, sold some to acquire others, read about horological history et.c., I have come to the conclusion that the beauty of it all is in the journey.

Recently I bought an IWC Portofino chronograph IW391008, in stainless steel, caliber 75320. When A friend saw it frowned and said:. "I expected you'd go for something better." I replied that in this phase of my life reliability and understated class are more important.

I would welcome your reaction and ofcourse your comments

Greetings to all

I am not sure that "underestimate" is the right term here. Certainly when you compare the Portuguese and Portofino families, and the chronographs using the 75320 movement, most will choose the Portuguese because of the looks and the image of the Portuguese family. That is, the Portofino is not underestimated but less liked. When compared to other chronographs using the in-house 8936x movement, that movement is valued higher, although it is not necessarily more reliable or accurate than the 75320. The 8936x watches are more expensive, which adds to the higher image. The Portofino family is generally regarded as the entry-level family of IWC, maybe this is what your friend is referring to. I personally don't like the term, as the watches in themselves are quite good and beautiful, but supposedly should not be taken too seriously as you might upgrade to something better, like to a watch from the Portuguese family. IWC introduced a Portofino watch with an in-house movement a few years ago, the 8 Days Handwound. A very sophisticated new movement in a beautiful watch: I bought one, very nice. That movement was subsequently used, with a minor alteration, in the new Portuguese 8 Days Handwound.

In short: to me there is nothing wrong with the Portofino family, it is of the same high standards as other IWC watches, it boils down to whether you like the watches or not.

Kind regards,
Paul

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Agreed wholeheartedly. Yes, given the choice that are many other watches (especially IWC's) to choose from. However, it is often the choice a person made for himself/herself that counts the most. IWC designed all these different kinds of watches for different tastes. Had no one ever wanted a particular model, it would never have been released (or will die a very quick death).

In my book, a not-so-common IWC is a good IWC. I don't necessarily have the IWC's that everyone else has. I purchase watches that I like, and I certainly don't need approval from others. Of course, I don't mind exchanging stories with those who share a similar taste. Yes, there were times when I purchased a not-so-popular model, when I could have afforded a more popular model... but as long as it puts a smile on my face, why the heck not. :-)

Truly greatful for taking the time to participate.

That's exactly how I feel Paul. But to be more precise my Portofino is a keeper as it is quite elegant.

Thanx

I absolutely aggre ABS0. Other people's approval is not Important to me anymore.