IWC Portofino Watches Bring Back The Mesh

by Ariel Adams (RSS feed)
Jan 27th 2011 at 3:01PM

I didn't expect to see a return to mesh metal bracelets from a big brand like IWC. Mesh metal bracelets, otherwise known as "Milanese" bracelet were big back in the middle of the 20th Century, but stuck around for niche use mostly on dive watches. The only mainstream brand I recall using them was Skagen. For 2011 IWC totally redesigned and reintroduced the Portofino watch. There are now four models of the Portofino - two of which will be offered with a metal Milanese strap. Those two models being the above seen chronograph, as well as the three-hand automatic. The Chronograph is 42mm wide, while the three-hand automatic I believe is 40mm wide.

The watches comes in two dial colors - the off-white, and a slate gray. Each has a few red accents on the dial for color. The Milanese strap is quite nicely done - as IWC has been able to overcome the biggest problem with the strap - adjustability. By giving it a strap like buckle, the wearer can adjust its size. The metal is thick, but smooth to the touch, and looks quite good in a retro sort of way. Will this signal a major return of Milanese style straps? Hard to say, but they do look nice on these new Portofino timepieces.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch reviews site aBlogtoRead.com.

Tags: 2011, IWC, milanese, Portofino, review, watch, watches