IWC recently announced a new version of their Portuguese Yacht Club Chronograph watch that came out about two years ago. The great looking piece is probably one of my top pics from the brand at this time and now is featured in an even more sporty skin. This version is done in collection with the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012. Beyond that I guess a new watch will be made?

The rear of the watch has “Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012” engraved on the back. IWC is the officially timekeeper for the boat race events. In the race IWC is also the official sponsor of the Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing Team. Interesting that they sponsor the event and one of the teams.

The titanium case and carbon fiber dial look good together and feel fitting with the high-end racing boats. These performance machines operate thanks to very capable sailors and seconds count when needed to start the race. While not a traditional regatta timer, the first 10 minutes of the chronograph counter are specially colored to help with calculating how much time before the race starts.

Interestingly enough the Volvo Ocean Race is an around-the-world race. I am not sure exactly how that works out, but it is a pretty grueling event for the sailors (best to have a nice watch). Though of course the majority of these watches will go on the wrists of non-sailors who admire their work. The watch case is 45.4mm wide and here in titanium. It has a sapphire crystal and is water resistant to 60 meters.

Through the rear of the watch you can see the very pretty in-house made IWC caliber 89361 automatic movement. There are two hands in the upper chronograph register, which allows this to be a full 12 hour chronograph, but enjoy the good look of only two subdials. The movement has a power reserve of almost three days. The watch comes attached to a black rubber strap (love that strong looking clasp).

IWC makes it clear that this is a limited production watch as it is for the 2011-2012 Volvo Ocean Race. Though they don’t indicate how many pieces exactly will be made. Reference number for this IWC Portuguese Yacht  Club Chronograph Edition “Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012” watch is IW390212. Look for it soon. Price is $15,800.