Dress Replica Watches are a unique category. Unlike tool watches that are set apart by the function they provide the wearer, dress watches prioritize form over function. They’re straightforward, often time-only watches. They’re typically modest in size, defying watch and style trends. And, they’re inherently timeless. Two of the most iconic models in this category hail from Patek Philippe and IWC. We look at the Patek Philippe Calatrava vs. IWC Portofino.
Patek Philippe Calatrava vs. IWC Portofino Birth of the Patek Philippe Calatrava
Patek Philippe first released the Calatrava in 1932. The design for the collection draws inspiration from the Bauhaus art movement. Like the dress watch, the Fake IWC Watches Bauhaus philosophy emphasizes form over function. These minimalist principles influenced the understated yet elegant style of the Calatrava, which has only seen subtle updates since it made its debut.
Introduction of the IWC Portofino
Five decades later in 1984, IWC launched the Portofino. At the time, many other brands were pushing the boundaries and creating increasingly bold designs following the Quartz Crisis of the 1970’s and 80’s. However, IWC Portofino Replica US Watches continued to stay true to their classic approach to watchmaking. The collection was inspired by the design principles of one of the world’s greatest watchmakers, Jean-Antione Lepine and his namesake pocket watch.
Evolution of the Calatrava
Around the time of the Portofino’s introduction, Patek Philippe released one of their most notable iterations of the Calatrava. The Reference 3919 launched in 1985 and debuted the brand’s Cloud de Paris guilloche bezel. This intricate style is created by embossing that results in hollowed lines that intersect to form small square knobs. It signified somewhat of a departure from the original design approach to the model, adding a more ornate element to its aesthetic.
Modern Variations of the Portofino and Calatrava
In 2008, IWC celebrated the brand’s 140th anniversary with the introduction of the Best IWC Replica Watch Hand-Wound, Reference 5448. Instead of taking a more modern direction with the special edition model, IWC returned to its roots and the design of the original 1984 Portofino for inspiration. The only significant update was an all-new mechanical movement, the Caliber 98800.
Latest Addition Models
Patek Philippe’s Calatrava and IWC’s Portofino Copy Watches were created over fifty years apart. Yet, these two timepieces share a number of distinct characteristics. Overall, the parallels between the two models poignantly illustrate the charm and timelessness of the dress watch.