IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar Complications

MTR · 2023-10-19T11:12:54Z

Explore the IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater Ref. IW5242-02. MTR shares his journey, insights on the Calibre 95290, and why this platinum minute repeater is a collector's gem.

MTR

WPS member · IWC forum

21 replies3241 views1 photos

MTR's deep dive into the IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater Ref. IW5242-02 offers a rare glimpse into a highly coveted and technically fascinating timepiece. His personal journey of acquiring this watch, even leading to the sale of a Patek Philippe, underscores the profound connection collectors can form with specific references. This article explores why this particular IWC model, with its unique Calibre 95290, continues to captivate enthusiasts despite its platinum case's acoustic properties.

The original Portugieser Minute Repeater Ref. IW5240 was introduced in 1995.

In 2006 (my) second generation Ref. IW5242-02 was born.

The newer Ref. IW5242-02 has the same 54-jewel Calibre 95290 that also was implemented in the first Portugieser Minute Repeater in 1995.

The Calibre 95290 is inspired from an old IWC Calibre 95 pocket watch movement.

The Platinum case gives a nice substantial feeling but is not the best transmitting material for minute repeaters. Who cares? ☺️

It took me a lot of efforts to find and catch this beauty a few years ago.

I have no regrets about this purchase, which even led to the sale of my Patek Philippe annual calendar.

Have a nice and successful day, my dear watch friends!

Thomas

Key Points from the Discussion

The IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater's Calibre 95290, inspired by an old IWC Calibre 95 pocket watch movement, features a modular construction for its minute repeater mechanism. This design allows the strike function to be perfected independently before being integrated with the timekeeping movement, simplifying fine adjustments for optimal sound.
Despite initial reservations influenced by critical sound reviews, one collector expressed a shift in perspective, now appreciating the IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater Ref. IW5242-02 primarily as a gorgeous three-hand watch, with less emphasis on its acoustic performance.
The original author shared a link to a sound recording of his IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater, allowing others to experience its chimes directly and form their own opinions on its acoustic quality.
While acknowledging that some other minute repeaters might offer a 'better' or 'louder' sound, the author firmly believes the IWC Portugieser Minute Repeater represents one of the most convincing overall concepts in horology.

The Discussion

ZSHSZ

Oct 19, 2023

This reference is hunting me for over a decade, and wanted one badly, but I let myself be influenced by the critics sound reviews, however as of late I became more flexible and I see this model as gorgeous three hand watch and I’m way less interested in the sound. A true gem as far as I’m concerned. Wear and enjoy that beauty!🥂

Watchonthewrist

Oct 20, 2023

I hope to add a great MR like this one day 🤗

Cardio

Oct 21, 2023

This is truly a very beautiful reference and it is always good to know that you are enjoying and appreciating it!

MTR

Oct 22, 2023

There are some MRs that may sound better or louder. But for me it’s one of the most convincing overall concepts.

MTR

Oct 22, 2023

It’s an everlasting love affair!

MTR

Oct 23, 2023

At the end of 2019, right after purchasing the watch, I recorded its sound. Here is the link to it: I hope, the link works! ☺️ Cheers Thomas

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the IWC forum with 21 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →

IWC Portugieser Perpetual Calendar Complications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

More from this Forum