The story behind this IWC Portuguese Jubilee
In 1993, the Schaffhausen-based watchmaker celebrated its 125th anniversary with an unexpected stroke of boldness by reviving a forgotten design from the 1930s. Originally, two Portuguese merchants had demanded wristwatches possessing the absolute precision of marine chronometers. The result was an oversized watch housing a pocket-watch movement. With the reference 5441 included in this commemorative series, the brand masterfully revives this classic aesthetic. This unique timepiece literally saved the Portuguese collection from oblivion and sparked the global trend for generously proportioned watches that dominated the industry in the decades that followed. The strictly limited run of 1,000 stainless steel examples worldwide makes this edition a fundamental milestone in contemporary watchmaking.
Case, movement and strap of this Portugaise Jubilee
The design of this timepiece centres on a spectacular 42 mm stainless steel case. The full mirror polish subtly catches the light and highlights the extreme finesse of the bezel. Beneath the domed Plexiglas crystal lies a sublime cream-coloured opaline dial. The applied rose gold Arabic numerals complement, with rare elegance, the majestic leaf-shaped hands that glide over the pearled minute track. The back of the watch offers a striking mechanical spectacle thanks to the transparent caseback, which reveals the legendary hand-wound Calibre 9828. This movement beats at the slow, nostalgic rate of 18,000 vibrations per hour. It features 19 jewels set in sumptuous gold settings and a swan-neck micro-adjustment screw. The watch is mounted on a black alligator leather strap with square scales, fitted with a traditional pin buckle.
Why this IWC watch
Acquiring this anniversary edition represents far more than a mere addition to a prestigious collection. It is a rare opportunity to own a pivotal moment in the modern history of the Schaffhausen-based manufacture. The combination of the vintage dial with cursive lettering and rose gold accents lends this piece an unrivalled visual warmth. Connoisseurs of fine watchmaking particularly seek out this configuration for its perfect balance between the noble heritage of pocket watches and a surprisingly modern wearability. Finding a well-preserved example from this era is becoming a real challenge on the current market.
Contents and condition
This fascinating timepiece comes with its original wooden case and period documents, including a booklet and a warranty dated 1994. Time has left its mark on the interior lining of the box, which has naturally flaked away, as is common with many IWC cases from that decade. The watch itself is in very good cosmetic condition for its age. The steel case shows very slight micro-scratches from wear, evidence of careful use, without altering the clean lines of its original design. Its elegant appearance remains intact and will delight even the most discerning enthusiasts.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece with a 24-month mechanical warranty. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Very good condition – watch has been worn and polished. Slight signs of external wear. Case and strap in excellent overall condition.
