As a brand ambassador and collaborator for luxury watch brand IWC Schaffhausen, Lewis Hamilton brings his daring style into the world of wristwatches. Today, IWC is unveiling a limited-edition Portugieser Tourbillon Rétrograde Chronograph that Hamilton co-designed. The watch is a bold statement, featuring a lustrous teal-colored dial adorned with 12 diamond hour markers and a matching teal textile strap. The 43.5 mm platinum case showcases a sapphire crystal back, allowing a glimpse into the intricate IWC-manufactured 89900-calibre automatic movement, complete with its 18-carat gold oscillating weight.
What sets this watch apart are the three complications it offers. At 12 o'clock, a chronograph function subdial allows for precise timing, perfect for an F1 race. On the left side of the dial, a curving retrograde date display adds a touch of elegance. However, the most impressive feature is the flying "hacking" minute tourbillon positioned at 6 o'clock. This captivating feature oscillates, counteracting the effects of gravity and ensuring accurate timekeeping. To further enhance its performance, IWC utilizes their proprietary Diamond Shell technology on specific components, reducing friction.
This collaboration marks Hamilton's third special edition IWC design since 2014. He started with the titanium Ingenieur Chronograph Edition Lewis Hamilton and followed it up five years later with the black ceramic Big Pilot's Watch Perpetual Calendar Edition "Lewis Hamilton." This Portugieser model, however, holds a special significance. Known as an icon in the watch world since its debut in the late 1930s, it is Hamilton's first foray into the Portugieser collection. Limited to just 44 pieces, a nod to Hamilton's F1 racing number, this timepiece is bound to become a sought-after collector's item in no time.