IWC Portofino Platinum Ref. 5448 Review

amanico · 2019-11-05T11:23:15Z

Explore the IWC Portofino Platinum Ref. 5448, a 46mm limited edition with Caliber 98800. Discover its pocket watch aesthetics and collector insights.

amanico

WPS member · IWC forum

26 replies4251 views3 photos

Nicolas (amanico) revisits the IWC Portofino Platinum Ref. 5448, a limited edition from 2010 that blends classic aesthetics with a substantial 46mm case. His detailed observations highlight its pocket watch-inspired design and the renowned Caliber 98800 movement. This article explores why this reference, despite its size, continues to captivate collectors with its timeless elegance and technical prowess.

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An old friend, this Portofino, unveiled in 2010, in a limited edition of 500 pieces, which is, in my opinion, too much for such a watch.

Here you have a stunning watch, very classic, looking a bit like a pocket watch with its large ( 46 mm ) but relatively thin case ( 11 mm ). So, the choice of platinum doesn't make it too heavy.

The movement is the Cal 98800, which is well known as found in other manual winding IWC such as some Portuguese time only.

It is big ( 37, 80 mm ), beats at 18, 000 vibrations per hour, with a power reserve of 46 hours, while the moon phase is accurate to one day each 122 years.

The dial is very classic and elegant. Timeless, in my opinion.

Here are the pictures I could take some months ago.

On the wrist, I would have preferred it smaller, with a 42 or 43 mm case, though...

Best,

Nicolas

Key Points from the Discussion

The IWC Portofino Ref. 5448's large 46mm size, while potentially challenging for some wrists, is integral to its pocket watch aesthetic and overall impact, making it a desirable piece despite its dimensions.
The Caliber 98800 movement is praised for its elegance and classic appeal, contrasting with newer, more 'boring' movements that may lack the same aesthetic charm for enthusiasts.
The presence of a small seconds sub-dial on the Portofino Ref. 5448 is a nod to traditional pocket watch design, prompting a discussion about the historical introduction of large central second hands in watches.
Several community members shared additional wristshots and detailed photos of the IWC Portofino Ref. 5448, showcasing its presence and finishing from different angles.
Another collector provided an additional image of the IWC Portofino Ref. 5448, further illustrating its dial details and overall design.

The Discussion

mahesh

Nov 5, 2019

i wish i had a wrist to wear this... Best, mahesh.,

halgedahl

Nov 5, 2019

A word too often employed in descriptions, here. But imho we’ll-deserved in this case. A watch many of us might buy despite our better judgement that it is simply too large. But then... Were it a truly wearable size, much of the effect would be lost. What a beauty, though. This was love at first sight for me. Have a fine day across the sea, Nicolas! And great thanks for reminding us of this classic! Fred

Bounce781

Nov 5, 2019

Stunning watch but waaay too big for me 😢

cazalea

Nov 5, 2019

More beautiful dial, and a more elegant movement. I'm afraid that for me, the newer movement is just boring. Suitable for engineers, but this isn't an engineer's watch. Alas, Cazalea

ChristianDK

Nov 5, 2019

I don’t like the movement either.

LiftAngle51

Nov 6, 2019

Normally i do not eat small seconds. But in the old days it was normal on a pocket watch i think. Then it is interesting to search when the first watch with a big secondhand introduced. Or...... can say somebody here when? greets, Weem@8 .. o’clock.

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