IWC Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph Lewis Hamilton
A collaboration between IWC Schaffhausen and the seven-time Formula One world champion, this timepiece is a fusion of sophisticated watchmaking artistry and motorsport elegance. Share
In a celebration of motorsport and watchmaking prowess, IWC Schaffhausen introduces the Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph Lewis Hamilton. This collaborative masterpiece, brought to life with the influence of the seven-time Formula One world champion and IWC ambassador, boasts a lustrous platinum case paired with a teal dial and corresponding textile strap. The sophisticated IWC-manufactured 89900 calibre animates a flying minute tourbillon, a chronograph feature, and a retrograde date indicator. Limited to a symbolic 44 pieces, this watch pays homage to Hamilton’s iconic racing number, a testament to his unparalleled journey in Formula One.
Known not only for his motorsport prowess but also for his sartorial elegance, Lewis Hamilton has carved a niche for himself in the fashion domain. His penchant for distinctive and avant-garde attire is evident. The Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team’s prized driver has consistently showcased his flair for audacious colours, intriguing patterns, and groundbreaking designs. Teaming up once again with IWC’s Chief Design Officer, Christian Knoop, Hamilton crafts his third signature timepiece.
Elegantly encased in a 43.5-millimetre platinum frame, the Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph resonates luxury. The metallic sheen is enhanced by the deep teal dial, graced with 12 radiant diamonds. The artfully recessed displays give the dial a multi-dimensional appearance, adorned with the champion’s signature panther-eye logo. This creation elegantly wraps around the wrist with a harmonizing textile strap, secured by a folding clasp.
Dominating the dial is the mesmerizing flying hacking minute tourbillon. This intricate feature, symbolizing the chaos of a “whirlwind,” counteracts gravitational impacts on the oscillation system, augmenting the watch’s precision. Enabled with a tourbillon stop, it allows meticulous time setting. Comprising 56 individual components, this feather-light mechanism, weighing just 0.675 grams, poses a complex assembly challenge for watch artisans.
Driving this sophisticated timepiece is the in-house IWC 89900 calibre, which integrates a chronograph function. Time is effortlessly recorded with the counter at 12 o’clock, accompanied by a retrograde date display. Advanced features like the silicone pallet lever and escape wheel, fortified with a diamond coating, and the pioneering Diamond Shell® technology, improve energy transmission, culminating in a substantial 68-hour power reserve. For the first time since the illustrious “Il Destriero Scafusia” in 1993, IWC incorporates a gold-plated movement, visible through the transparent sapphire back.
This latest creation marks the third collaboration between IWC and Lewis Hamilton. Their inaugural venture in 2014 birthed the Ingenieur Chronograph Edition Lewis Hamilton, boasting a titanium ensemble. In a nostalgic gesture, its case back showcased a sliver of carbon fibre from an authentic race car. Their partnership blossomed further in 2019, leading to the Big Pilot’s Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition “Lewis Hamilton”, an exquisite blend of a black ceramic case, a burgundy dial, and 18-carat 5N gold accents.
