Not only would a larger or smaller diameter take up more or less space on the wrist, but the proportions of almost every element from the hands to the date window, sub-dials and even the indexes would change so that changes might feel too open and sparse The design turns its maximum size into something compact and balanced with a smaller diameter. Size options have traditionally been more limited in IWC’s more sophisticated collections, and the Portofino chronograph is no exception. With its new compact 39mm case, the IWC Portofino Chronograph 39 Replica gives one of the brand’s most refined chronograph designs a new compact, classic feel, as well as a cleaner overall layout.
The biggest change to the new IWC Portofino Chronograph 39 is its 39mm stainless steel case. The narrow straight lugs are the same width as the 42mm model, but the reduction in the diameter of the surrounding case gives these lugs a more planted and sporty stance than the larger models. The Swiss IWC Replica Watch softly rounded case sides also help to reinforce the refined mid-century look of the design. Perhaps the most disruptive visual change, however, will be the high-piston pusher, due to the sizing.
While these slim, brightly polished elements are quite large on the 42mm model, their brightly polished height may be a little too large for some audiophiles. In keeping with the overall classic look, the IWC Portofino Replica features a simple vintage-style solid caseback with little or no ornate engraving. Despite the depth of the caseback and the 7750-based movement inside, the Portofino Chronograph 39 has a very manageable 12.8mm thickness. IWC claims that the Portofino Chronograph 39 is water-resistant to 30 meters, but given its sophisticated connotations, that’s not nearly as impressive as its sporty design.
IWC offers three dial options for the Portofino Chronograph 39. The basic dial design of all three is a simplified variant of the 42mm model, with the day/date window removed and the sub-dial at 9 o’clock removed, replaced by a clean two-register layout with sub-dial at 12 o’clock Clock at 6 o’clock and 6 o’clock. As with the Cheap IWC Replica case, the smaller dial diameter gives these new dial designs a noticeably more balanced character in the image. Shorter stick-shaped indexes and skeletonized Roman numerals give the dial a more open, proportioned feel, while the leaf-shaped hands appear wider and more sturdy for legibility.
The silver dial style is the most traditional and reserved in the collection, featuring an understated sunburst effect in the image, and gold-plated dial hardware injects a touch of luxury into the mix. The black sunburst dial IWC Replica Watches Review share these gold-plated elements, but the more aggressive grained sunburst effect and dark charcoal grey tone in the image give this model a more sporty and modern feel. On the other hand, the green dial variant is by far the most striking of the three.
Power reserve performance is also slightly improved over the standard 7750, with a claimed 44 hours of reserve at a 28,800 bph beat rate. IWC has equipped all three variants of the Quality Portofino Chronograph 39 Replica with smooth classic alligator leather straps. The silver dial model is paired with a piano black strap, while the subtle tones of the black dial complement the deep mahogany brown strap in the image. Finally, the green dial version is paired with a dark, almost reptile hunter-like green strap. With a cleaner silhouette and a more compact size, the new IWC Portofino Chronograph 39 is one of the brand’s most clothing-focused chronograph collections, more elegant and refined.