Football manager Pep Guardiola spotted wearing a IWC

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola was photographed wearing an 18ct rose gold IWC Portuguese Perpetual Calendar Ref. IW503302 during an appearance at the US Open in 2025. The sighting captures one of contemporary watchmaking's most refined complications on the wrist of one of modern football's most meticulous tactical minds—a fitting pairing given the watch's engineering precision.

The IW503302 is powered by IWC's proprietary 89801 calibre, a self-winding mechanical movement that combines annual calendar and moonphase complications. Unlike a full perpetual calendar, the annual calendar requires adjustment only once yearly, on February 28th, reducing service intervals and cost while maintaining collector-grade complexity. The 42.3mm case is crafted from 18ct rose gold, polished and satin-finished, and houses a cream-coloured dial with subsidiary registers displaying the date, month, moonphase, and day of the week. The rose gold case, paired with a brown alligator leather strap, emphasises understated luxury over sportiness. Water resistance extends to 60 metres, adequate for daily wear but not diving.

The Portuguese line represents IWC's commitment to classic dress-watch proportions and mechanical finishing. The annual calendar complication distinguishes the IW503302 from simpler date-only Portuguese models and positions it squarely in the €25,000–€30,000 range at retail. Limited production runs and the prestige of in-house calibre work maintain strong secondary-market demand. The 18ct rose gold variant commands premiums over stainless steel alternatives, particularly as rose gold watches have appreciated steadily over the past five years.

Guardiola's choice reflects a taste for horological substance over brand visibility. Unlike sports watches favoured by younger athletes, the Portuguese Perpetual Calendar appeals to individuals who value mechanical mastery and timeless design. The IW503302 has remained in production since its introduction in the early 2010s, ensuring availability while maintaining exclusivity through material choice and price point.

On the secondary market, the IW503302 in 18ct rose gold currently trades between $20,000 and $28,000 USD depending on condition and service history. Retail pricing hovers around $32,500–$38,000 USD. The annual calendar complication and precious metal case protect value, though demand ebbs and flows with broader interest in annual calendar watches versus perpetual calendars and tourbillons.