IWC Portugieser Chronograph Rattrapante Full Set Limited to 1000

The IWC Portugieser Rattrapante Chronograph IW371216 (limited edition of 1,000 pieces, 2006–2012) is one of the most beautiful and understated split-seconds chronographs ever made. Housed in a perfectly proportioned 41 mm stainless steel case, this reference combines classic Portugieser elegance with the rare and complex rattrapante (split-seconds) complication — allowing two elapsed times to be measured simultaneously via the third pusher at 10 o’clock.

The pristine silver-plated dial features feuille hands, applied Arabic numerals, railway minute track, and two recessed sub-dials (30-minute counter at 12, small seconds at 6). The discreet red “Rattrapante” signature at 12 o’clock is the only hint of the mechanical wizardry inside. Powered by the hand-wound Calibre 76240 (based on a modified Valjoux 7760 with IWC’s in-house rattrapante module), it offers 44 hours of power reserve and the mesmerizing dance of the split-seconds hand visible through the sapphire caseback.

Delivered on a black Santoni alligator strap with steel folding clasp, the IW371216 is the ultimate sleeper complication — it looks like a simple two-register chronograph until you activate the rattrapante.