Rapper Jay-Z spotted wearing a IWC

Jay-Z was photographed wearing the discontinued IWC Portugieser Rattrapante Ref. IW371483, a 41-millimetre split-seconds chronograph in 18-carat rose gold. The watch, paired with a brown leather strap, showcases the 18ct rose gold case and silver dial that defined this reference during its production run. The sighting captures one of horology's most technically accomplished dress chronographs in an intimate lifestyle setting.

The Portugieser Rattrapante Ref. IW371483 is powered by the IWC calibre 79230, a column-wheel chronograph movement with rattrapante (fly-back) functionality housed beneath a sapphire caseback. The 41mm case, water-resistant to 60 metres, features a polished rose gold finish typical of IWC's Portugieser line. The silver dial presents twin subdials for chronograph operation, applied Arabic numeral hour markers, and a date window at 3 o'clock. The movement's split-seconds mechanism allows the wearer to time multiple events simultaneously—a complication absent from standard chronographs and rarely encountered outside professional sports timing and haute horlogerie circles.

The Ref. IW371483 represents a milestone in IWC's Portugieser evolution: rose gold construction elevated the reference beyond its steel counterparts, positioning it as a collector's piece rather than a tool watch. Its discontinuation has intensified demand on the secondary market, where examples in strong condition command premiums. The rattrapante complication itself ensures technical rarity; few contemporary watches under €50,000 retail price offered this function when the reference was in production. Variants in white gold and platinum existed, but rose gold editions remain the most coveted.

Jay-Z's choice reflects a deep understanding of watchmaking craftsmanship. The pairing with a brown leather strap—rather than the original alligator—signals both confidence and practicality. Hiphop's most influential figures have long gravitated toward precious-metal chronographs as symbols of precision and artistic control. This sighting positions the discontinued IWC Portugieser Rattrapante Ref. IW371483 as a timeless investment, not a trend.

On the grey market, the Ref. IW371483 in 18ct rose gold trades between $10,000 and $14,000 USD depending on condition and service history. Demand outpaces supply. IWC has not reissued this exact reference, cementing its status among collectors seeking authentic split-seconds chronography in precious metal. Waitlists for similar modern IWC Portugieser chronographs exceed 18 months at authorized dealers.