IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake

Quick specs IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake
Price: $ 9,700 | € 9.900 | £ 8,000 | CHF 9’000
Size: 37 mm
Reference: IW459604 – limited to 500 pieces

The IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake is quite on time when it comes to the Lunar New Year. Which is also marking a new year in China, the Year of the Wood Snake, that starts on the 19^th of January 2025. For watchmakers it is an extra opportunity to sell some thematic watches, just take a look at last year’s Year of the Dragon models.

Next year it is the first time in the Chinese calendar since 1965 that it is the Year of the Wood Snake. So, maybe that is why now, in August 2024, brands are already lining up for this new year. IWC’s contribution is this classic burgundy Portofino in 37-millimeter stainless steel, featuring a golden moon on its moon phase display. The burgundy symbolizes fire, as fire is the traditional Chinese way to welcome the Lunar New Year.

The IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake has a power reserve of 120 hours

The movement of the IWC Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake is the automatic IWC caliber 32800. It has a massive power reserve of 120 hours, and it is used in other moon phase Portofino’s as well. But here the oscillating mass has the shape of a serpent, a homage to the sixth animal in the Chinese zodiac.

This new Portofino comes with two calfskin leather straps: one in burgundy and one in black, both with a stainless steel folding buckle. More explanation about this Chinese New Year? Read this about the Chinese Year of the Wood Snake.