Gisele Bündchen’s Visit to IWC Schaffhausen
After attending Watches and Wonders, Gisele Bündchen traveled to the German-speaking part of Switzerland to delve into the engineering marvels of fine watchmaking at IWC Schaffhausen’s Manufakturzentrum. She had the opportunity to meet the watchmakers of the new Portugieser collection and observe the detailed craftsmanship up close.









From Geneva to Schaffhausen
Following her visit to Watches and Wonders in Geneva, philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, supermodel, and IWC Brand Ambassador Gisele headed to Schaffhausen, the home of the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer. She visited the IWC Manufakturzentrum to witness the intricate watchmaking process of the new Portugieser collection, which had been introduced the day before in Geneva. This new collection, featuring the Perpetual Calendars and the Eternal Calendar, highlights IWC’s distinctive expertise in calendar mechanisms.
“It was fascinating for me to see the level of detail and complex processes that go into making the watches. The Portugieser collection has amazing new colours, and I am impressed by the finishings and visual depth of the coloured dials. They are beautiful and visiting where they are made and seeing the precision of the craftsmanship firsthand has given me a whole new appreciation for my watches.”
GISELE BÜNDCHEN
Wearing the Portugieser Chronograph
During her visit, Gisele wore the new Portugieser Chronograph (ref. IW371624) featuring a Dune-coloured dial. The stainless-steel case, gold-plated hands, gold appliques, and black strap create a colour combination reminiscent of early evening with the golden glow of the setting sun. IWC designed new dials to highlight this colour, crafting them through a complex process involving 60 individual steps, including applying 15 layers of transparent lacquer, which is finely ground and polished to a high-gloss finish. This timepiece is powered by the IWC-manufactured 69355 calibre, a robust mechanical chronograph movement with a classic column-wheel design.
The Manufakturzentrum Tour
Gisele received an extensive tour of the Manufakturzentrum, experiencing the production of components, case-making, and movement assembly. Opened in 2018 to mark IWC Schaffhausen’s 150th anniversary, the Manufakturzentrum embodies state-of-the-art engineering with innovative manufacturing methods and technologies.
Gisele’s Role as IWC Brand Ambassador
In 2022, IWC welcomed Brazilian philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, and supermodel Gisele as a brand ambassador. This partnership was formed to recognize their shared values and ambitions. Gisele has achieved remarkable success and recognition throughout her career, not only in the fashion industry but also for her sustainability efforts.
Gisele’s Advocacy and Achievements
Gisele has served as a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program since 2009 and has been honored by prestigious institutions like Harvard University for her commitment to environmental issues. Recently, she joined the board of the Lotus House, the largest shelter for women and children in the US. Additionally, she achieved a milestone as an author with her second NYT bestseller.
YOU ASKED…
What did Gisele Bündchen explore at IWC Schaffhausen?
Gisele Bündchen explored the fine watchmaking process of IWC Schaffhausen’s new Portugieser collection and observed the intricate craftsmanship involved.
What timepiece did Gisele wear during her visit?
Gisele wore the new Portugieser Chronograph (ref. IW371624) featuring a Dune-coloured dial, stainless-steel case, gold-plated hands, gold appliques, and a black strap.
When did Gisele become an IWC brand ambassador?
Gisele Bündchen became an IWC brand ambassador in 2022, recognizing the shared values and ambitions between her and the brand.
What other roles and achievements does Gisele have?
Gisele is a philanthropist, NYT bestselling author, supermodel, and a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environmental Program. She also serves on the board of the Lotus House and has been recognized by institutions like Harvard University for her environmental advocacy.
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