WATCH & JEWELRY /
WATCH NEWS
March 30, 2026
A Portuguese Chronograph in obsidian, crafted from our proprietary material, Ceratanium®.
IWC Schaffhausen | Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium®
IWC has introduced the Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium®. Since its debut in 1998, this iconic chronograph, which has added a sporty elegance to the brand's Portugieser collection, has been reborn as a limited edition in an all-black specification.
Text by WASEDA Kosaku
Advanced Material Redefines a Classic Chronograph
This model features IWC's proprietary material, Ceratanium®, used for the 41mm case, crown, and push-buttons. Ceratanium® is an advanced material based on a special titanium alloy, fired at high temperatures. It offers the lightness and robustness of titanium, combined with the hardness and scratch resistance of ceramic. Furthermore, its dark, metallic texture, created through firing, imparts a unique material feel unlike any other.
The all-black design is meticulously applied to the dial, applied Arabic numerals, indices, and hands.
Traditional design elements of the Portugieser Chronograph, such as the inner bezel with 1/4-second markings and the vertically arranged sub-dials, subtly emerge against the black background, further accentuating the beauty of its silhouette. The square-patterned black rubber strap complements the overall chic impression.
Christian Knoop, Creative Director, commented, "The all-black execution emphasizes the chronograph's shape, drawing the eye to its distinctive silhouette." The combination of timeless design and innovative material expands the possibilities of this heritage chronograph.
The movement is IWC's in-house Calibre 69355, a robust and reliable chronograph mechanical movement designed with a column-wheel control mechanism that provides clear tactile feedback for button operation. It features a double-pawl automatic winding system and boasts a power reserve of 46 hours.
IWC continues to push the boundaries of chronographs by venturing into material development. This timepiece is a testament to that commitment, showcasing the evolution of the Maison's iconic model.
IWC Portugieser Chronograph Ceratanium®
Case Material | Ceratanium®
Case Size | Diameter 41 mm, Thickness 13 mm
Movement | Calibre 69355, Automatic winding
Power Reserve | 46 hours
Water Resistance | 3 bar
Case Back | With synthetic sapphire crystal
Strap | Black rubber strap
Limited Edition | 1500 pieces
Price | ¥2,203,300 (incl. tax)
Contact
Frequently Asked Questions about IWC Schaffhausen Watches
Q. What is the brand story of IWC?
IWC was founded in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, in 1868 by American watchmaker Florentine Ariosto Jones. It began with the establishment of a factory in this location, which could utilize hydropower from the Rhine River, based on the ambitious vision of merging America's advanced manufacturing technology with Switzerland's exceptional craftsmanship. In 1903, the motto "Probus Scafusia" (Excellent Schaffhausen Craftsmanship) was established, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to quality. The "Portugieser" was born in 1939 from an order by a Portuguese merchant, and along with the Pilot's Watches, it grew into a collection that represents the brand. IWC is also known for its innovation in early adoption of advanced materials such as titanium and ceramic. Even after joining the Richemont Group in 2000, it continues to uphold its over 150-year tradition of watchmaking in Schaffhausen.
Q. What kind of material is Ceratanium®?
Ceratanium® is an advanced material developed by IWC. It is based on a special titanium alloy and fired at high temperatures. It offers the lightness and robustness of titanium, combined with the hardness and scratch resistance of ceramic. Additionally, its dark, metallic texture, created through firing, imparts a unique material feel unlike any other, and in this model, it is used for the entire case, crown, and push-buttons.
Q. What kind of collection is the "Portugieser Chronograph"?
The Portugieser is one of IWC's signature iconic collections, and this chronograph has embodied sporty elegance since its introduction in 1998. Traditional design elements, such as the inner bezel with 1/5-second markings and the vertically arranged sub-dials, are well-known. In this model, these elements subtly emerge against the all-black background, further accentuating the beauty of the chronograph's silhouette.