Anthony Mackie is stepping into his biggest role yet as the new Captain America in Brave New World, and while the shield might be his most iconic accessory, his wrist game is just as strong. Recently spotted in New York City promoting the film, Mackie was wearing none other than the IWC Portugieser Chronograph, a modern classic that perfectly blends vintage charm with contemporary elegance.
If you’ve been searching for a timepiece that embodies both heritage and versatility, this could be the perfect addition to your collection.
IWC Portugieser Chronograph: The Superhero’s Choice
Interestingly, Mackie isn’t the first Captain America to favor this iconic watch. Chris Evans, who previously wielded the shield, has also been seen wearing a Portugieser Chronograph, his version featuring a striking black dial with a yellow-gold case. Over the years, Evans has been spotted wearing multiple IWC timepieces, including another Portugieser with a deep burgundy dial and a Pilot’s Watch Chronograph.
While purely coincidental, the fact that both actors who’ve embodied Captain America have chosen IWC speaks to the brand’s timeless appeal. With its elegant proportions, clean dial layout, and precision chronograph movement, the Portugieser Chronograph seamlessly blends sophistication with performance, just like the superheroes who wear them. If IWC wanted to create its own Omega-Bond moment, the Captain America connection would be a strong starting point.
Hollywood Style on Your Wrist – Shop the IWC Portugieser Chronograph from La Maison Monaco Now!
The Legacy of the Portugieser
Before IWC became a favorite among Hollywood’s elite, it was crafting timepieces for the world’s most discerning navigators. The Portugieser story dates back to the 1930s when two Portuguese merchants approached IWC with a bold request: they wanted a wristwatch that offered the precision of a marine chronometer. At the time, most wristwatches were compact and delicate, but IWC responded with a groundbreaking design, an oversized, highly legible wristwatch powered by a pocket watch movement.
This first Portugieser set new standards for accuracy, elegance, and functionality. Over the decades, the collection has evolved, refining its aesthetics while preserving its maritime heritage. The Portugieser Chronograph remains one of IWC’s most celebrated models, blending timeless design with cutting-edge mechanics.
Inside the IWC Portugieser Chronograph
At the heart of the modern Portugieser Chronograph beats the IWC-manufactured Caliber 69355, a robust and highly precise automatic movement. This column-wheel chronograph movement offers a 46-hour power reserve and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz), ensuring smooth and reliable timekeeping. Unlike conventional cam-actuated chronographs, the column-wheel construction provides a more tactile and responsive push-button feel, a feature highly regarded by watch connoisseurs.
The 41mm case is elegantly proportioned, maintaining the Portugieser’s signature presence on the wrist without being overpowering. The thin bezel and domed sapphire crystal enhance its sleek aesthetic, while the high-contrast dial, available in a variety of colors, offers exceptional legibility. True to its roots, the watch features a bicompax layout, with running seconds at 6 o’clock and a 30-minute chronograph counter at 12 o’clock, staying faithful to the collection’s maritime instrument heritage.
Water-resistant to 30 meters, the Portugieser Chronograph isn’t built for deep-sea adventures, but it embodies the spirit of precision navigation that inspired its creation. Paired with an alligator leather or stainless steel bracelet, this watch seamlessly transitions from boardroom sophistication to casual elegance.
The Art of the IWC Portugieser Chronograph
The IWC Portugieser Chronograph is a masterclass in timeless design, seamlessly blending heritage with modern sophistication. Its sleek, minimalist aesthetic is instantly recognizable, making it a standout in any collection.
A Case of Elegance
Crafted in stainless steel or luxurious 18k gold, the Portugieser’s 41mm case strikes the perfect balance between presence and wearability. Its thin bezel maximizes dial space, ensuring exceptional legibility. It’s a signature of the collection.
