Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake
The Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake features a 18-carat 5N gold oscillating mass in the shape of a snake, a reminder of the lunar new year.
ABOUT THE WATCH
Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake
Following a time-honored tradition, IWC Schaffhausen welcomes the Lunar New Year with a special edition. The Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 Year of the Snake features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 37 millimeters and a burgundy dial. This unique shade of red symbolizes the vibrant color of fire, typically used to welcome the Lunar New Year in China. Situated at 12 o’clock, the moon phase display works so precisely that it only deviates from the actual orbit of Earth’s satellite by one day after 122 years. The golden moon and stars stand out against the burgundy backdrop and harmonize beautifully with the gold-plated hands and appliques. The watch is powered by the IWC-manufactured 32800 caliber with automatic winding and a power reserve of five days. A special highlight is hidden on the back: the oscillating mass, made of solid 18-carat 5N gold, is crafted in the shape of a snake, a nod to the Lunar New Year. For added versatility, the Portofino Automatic Moon Phase 37 comes with two straps. One is crafted from black calfskin and one from burgundy calfskin, while both feature a butterfly clasp. A quick change system enables wearers to change the look of their watch effortlessly.
Moon phase display | IWC Schaffhausen
The difficulty in displaying the moon phase on the dial of a watch comes from the fact that the moon does not follow a daily rhythm in its orbit around the Earth. A cycle from new moon to new moon – one lunation – does not last 30 days, but exactly 29 days, 12 hours, 44 minutes, and 2.88 seconds. Therefore, a period of 30 days must be slowed down to come as close as possible to one lunar cycle. This is achieved by placing a reduction gear between the day star and the moon phase disc. The key to high precision lies in the number of wheels used, their proportions and the number of teeth they have. IWC’s moon phase displays are calculated to the highest precision and accuracy.
Features
Case
Movement
Packaging
Central hacking seconds
Moon phase display
IWC bracelet quick-change system
Sapphire glass, convex, antireflective coating on both sides
