The Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has a tradition of welcoming the Chinese Lunar New Year with special editions across its collections. In tribute to the Year of the Horse, which begins on February 17, 2026, the House launches a limited edition of its Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse.
Limited to 500 pieces, the Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse features a stainless steel case and a burgundy dial. The IWC-manufactured 52011 calibre is equipped with a rotor in the shape of a galloping horse, as a charming design celebrating the vitality of the Lunar New Year. Embodying strength, energy, and freedom, the horse is celebrated as a harbinger of success and good fortune.
The Portugieser Automatic 42 Year of the Horse features a stainless steel case with a diameter of 42 milimetres. 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 is inspired by the auspicious red tones widely used in Lunar New Year celebrations. Moreover, it features the characteristics and well-balanced Portugieser design.
The characteristic dial layout with the small seconds at 9 o’clock and the power reserve display at 3 o’clock dates back to the first Portugieser Automatic from 2000. Golden hands, numerals, and appliques complement the rich burgundy-colored dial. Finally, additional detail is the small date window, which has been discreetly placed at the 6 o’clock position.
A true highlight of this timepiece is revealed through its sapphire glass case back: a gold-pleated rotor, meticulously crafted in the shape of a galloping horse. 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 folding clasp that is delivered with the watch.
