Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm vs IWC Portofino Automatic 37

In-Depth Comparison

The Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm and the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 represent two compelling options in the luxury watch market. Both timepieces have earned devoted followings among collectors and enthusiasts, but they approach horology from distinctly different perspectives. Let's break down how these two watches compare across the key dimensions that matter most to buyers.

Heritage And Brand Prestige

Cartier and IWC are both highly respected names in watchmaking. Both watches hail from Switzerland, benefiting from the region's deep horological tradition. This particular Cle de Cartier reference was introduced in 2015, while this Portofino reference debuted in 2018. The IWC Portofino Automatic 37 is the newer release, potentially featuring more modern technology and finishing.

Movement And Mechanics

At the heart of the Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm beats the Cartier 1847 MC caliber offering a 42-hour power reserve running at 28,800 vph with 25 jewels. The IWC Portofino Automatic 37 is powered by the 35111 with a 120-hour power reserve operating at 28,800 vph featuring 25 jewels. The IWC Portofino Automatic 37 wins on power reserve with a 78-hour advantage, which means less frequent winding for those who rotate watches.

Dimensions And Wearability

The Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm features a 35.0mm case at 10.6mm thick with a 42.0mm lug-to-lug measurement, crafted in Stainless Steel. The IWC Portofino Automatic 37 comes in at 37.0mm and 9.4mm thick with 44.0mm lug-to-lug, constructed from Stainless Steel. The Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm wears more compactly on the wrist, making it potentially more suitable for smaller wrists or those who prefer understated proportions. At 53g, the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 is the lighter of the two.

Materials And Construction

The Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm uses a Sapphire crystal paired with a Fixed, polished round bezel, while the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 features Sapphire crystal with a Fixed, polished with 66 diamonds bezel. On the wrist, the Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm comes on a Black alligator leather strap with Steel folding buckle, while the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 is fitted with Blue alligator leather strap featuring Pin buckle.

Water Resistance And Capability

The Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm is rated to 30m / 98ft and the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 to 30m / 98ft. Both watches share the same water resistance rating, making them equally suited for aquatic activities.

Pricing And Value

At retail, the Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm lists for $6,200 compared to $7,400 for the IWC Portofino Automatic 37. The Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm is the more accessible option at MSRP, saving $1,200 at retail. On the secondary market, the Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm trades around $4,800 while the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 commands approximately $5,500.

The Verdict

Choosing between the Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm and the IWC Portofino Automatic 37 ultimately comes down to personal priorities. For dress occasions and smaller wrists, the Cartier Cle de Cartier 35mm is more versatile. Both watches are exceptional timepieces that will serve their owner well for generations. We recommend trying both on the wrist at an authorized dealer before making your final decision, as comfort and emotional connection are ultimately just as important as specifications.