The Limited-Edition Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse is a commemorative timepiece released by IWC Schaffhausen to mark the upcoming Lunar New Year. Limited to 500 pieces, it features a 42.4mm stainless steel case, a burgundy dial with gold accents, and the IWC-manufactured 52011 caliber offering a seven-day power reserve. The rotor is shaped like a galloping horse, visible through the sapphire caseback.
Press release with commentary in italics.
New: IWC Limited-Edition Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse
Pricing for this model is listed at approximately €14,800, though regional availability and final retail prices may vary.
Commentary
The watch’s design integrates cultural symbolism with mechanical clarity. The burgundy dial, chosen for its association with prosperity in Lunar New Year traditions, is paired with gold-plated hands and markers that maintain legibility without excess ornamentation. The layout preserves the classic Portugieser balance, with a small seconds subdial at 9 o’clock and a power reserve indicator at 3 o’clock, offering functional symmetry.
From a technical standpoint, the use of the 52011 caliber reflects IWC’s commitment to long-duration performance, with its Pellaton winding system supporting a full week of autonomy. The galloping horse rotor adds thematic relevance and aesthetics without compromising mechanical integrity. Overall, the watch presents a focused blend of cultural reference and horological utility, suitable for collectors seeking a limited edition with clear design intent.
Press Release
Schaffhausen, 14 October 2025: To mark the beginning of the Year of the Horse, the next animal in the Chinese zodiac, IWC Schaffhausen continues its tradition of creating a dedicated timepiece. Limited to 500 pieces, the Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse features a stainless steel case and a burgundy dial. In traditional Chinese culture, the horse symbolises a spirited and uplifting energy and is also seen as the beginning of success and good fortune. The IWC-manufactured 52011 calibre is equipped with a rotor in the shape of a galloping horse, a charming design detail celebrating the vitality of the Lunar New Year.
IWC Schaffhausen has a tradition of welcoming the Chinese Lunar New Year with special editions across its collections. In continuation of this, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer launches a limited edition of its Portugieser Automatic 42 to welcome the Year of the Horse, which begins on 17th February 2026. A symbol of strength, energy and freedom, the horse is seen as a bringer of success and good fortune. People born in a Year of the Horse are said to be active, independent and hardworking. They enjoy being in motion and often show a love for adventure. The Year of the Horse is, therefore, typically associated with progress, the rise of new opportunities and the courage to move forward and pursue new goals in life with confidence.
The Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse (Ref. IW501709) features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42 millimetres. The case construction with a more slender side profile and box-shaped sapphire crystals on the front and back lends the watch an even more refined and elegant appearance. The burgundy dial, inspired by the auspicious red tones widely used in Lunar New Year celebrations, features the characteristic and well-balanced Portugieser design. The characteristic dial layout with the small seconds at 9 o’clock and thepower reserve display at 3 o’clock dates back to the first Portugieser Automatic (Ref. 5000) from 2000. Golden hands, Roman numerals and appliques complement the rich burgundy-coloured dial. An additional detail is the small date window, which has been discreetly placed at the 6 o’clock position.
IN-HOUSE MOVEMENT FEATURING A ROTOR IN THE SHAPE OF A HORSE
Inside the case, the IWC-manufactured 52011 calibre is at work. Its efficient Pellaton winding system features components made of virtually wear-free ceramic. Using movements of the rotor in both directions, it builds up a power reserve of 168 hours (7 days) in two barrels. A highlight is the gold-plated rotor, visible through the sapphire glass case back, and crafted in the shape of a galloping horse to pay tribute to the Lunar New Year. The Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse is delivered with a choice of two straps for added versatility: a black alligator leather strap and an additional burgundy alligator leather strap. Both straps can be fitted with the stainless steel folding clasp that is delivered with the watch.
