Grace In Gold: IWC’s Latest Portofino Automatic 34 Day & Night
IWC Schaffhausen has introduced a warm and luxurious new addition to its refined Portofino Automatic 34 Day & Night collection. The new Ref. IW459805 arrives in an elegant 18k 5N gold case, expanding the line beyond its current mix of diamond-set and smooth-bezel steel models. With this latest release, IWC offers a purist’s take on luxury—quiet, timeless, and effortlessly sophisticated.
A New Take on the Classic Gold Dress Watch
The 34 mm case, now in precious 18k 5N gold, maintains the signature slim profile of the collection at just 8.90 mm thick, making it perfect for smaller wrists or those who prefer discreet proportions. Unlike the two existing diamond-bezel models, this reference opts for a smooth, polished bezel, mirroring the design language of the steel variant already in the collection.
Finishing touches such as the straight lugs, fluted crown, and solid caseback held by 4-screws blend refinement with everyday practicality. The case is protected by anti-reflective sapphire crystal and offers 50 meters of water resistance.
A Dial That Blends Romance and Function
True to the spirit of the Portofino collection, the silver-plated dial is a picture of harmony and balance. Gold-plated leaf hands and applied baton hour markers, along with a Roman numeral at 12 o’clock, lend a sense of vintage elegance. A dotted minute track frames the dial, while 12 small diamonds delicately mark each hour—so discreetly integrated they nearly disappear, a detail sure to appeal to lovers of restrained luxury.
At 6 o’clock, the defining feature of this reference subtly takes center stage: a day and night indicator. The rotating disc features a golden sun and moon motif set against a starlit sky. Every 24 hours, the sun and moon alternate at the top of the display to indicate noon and midnight, bringing a poetic and functional complication into the mix.
Caliber 35180 – Elegant and Efficient
Powering the watch is the IWC Caliber 35180, an automatic movement running at 28,800 vph with a 50-hour power reserve. With 24 jewels and a reputation for reliability, it’s an ideal movement for a daily wearer with refined style.
Finished with a Taupe Leather Strap
The timepiece is matched with a taupe calfskin leather strap, giving the gold case a soft, contemporary contrast. The strap features IWC’s quick-change system for easy versatility and is fastened by an 18k 5N gold folding clasp—a detail that completes the luxurious but practical execution.
Final Thoughts
With the Portofino Automatic 34 Day & Night IW459805, IWC continues its mastery of elegant simplicity. By bringing the smooth-bezel aesthetic to its gold offerings—previously seen only in steel—the brand provides an elevated yet restrained option for collectors and enthusiasts alike. It’s a graceful tribute to classic watchmaking, softened by romantic details and powered by modern mechanical precision.
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General Specifications:
Brand: IWC
Model: Portofino Automatic 34 Day & Night
Reference: IW459805
Dial: Silver-plated
Lume: No
Case Material: 18k 5N gold
Case Dimensions: 34 mm Diameter, 8.90 mm thickness
Crystal: Sapphire glass
Case Back: 18k 5N gold
Water Resistance: 50 Meters
Strap: Taupe calskin leather strap with quick-change system and 18k 5N gold folding clasp
Calibre: IWC 35180
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 4 Hz (28,800 Vph)
Jewels: 24
Power Reserve: 50 Hours
Price: Upon request
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: No
