The IWC Portuguese is an iconic watch amongst collectors worldwide. Many years after its initial debut, this watch has become the archetype for one of the most successful contemporary IWC watch families ever produced.
In the late 1930s, IWC tried to develop further its business in various markets. During that time, a wholesaler from Lisbon, Portugal, believed to be Messrs. Rodrigues and Antonio Teixera, approached IWC. The demand of the Portuguese market was not only for pocket watches and women’s dress watches, but also for men’s wristwatches with the precision of marine chronometers.
Years later, following strong demand, especially from Germany, a small series was re-made between 1977 and 1981 and consequently became known as the ‘German Edition’ amongst collectors. This 3rd series model used the same case but utilized the IWC Caliber 982-17'''.
The rarity of the present watch is further enhanced by its original condition and IWC Extract from the Ledger confirming the sale of the present watch on 7 July 1981 by IWC, Frankfurt, Germany.
Lot 140 sold for 18,750 CHF at the Geneva Watch Auction: TWO.












