- The Oscar-winning director was spotted wearing the IWC Portofino Automatic at the 2025 Producers Guild Awards.
- IWC is famed for its blend of Swiss precision and timeless elegance.
- The Portofino Automatic embodies quiet luxury — an understated masterpiece at an approachable price point.
Taika Waititi isn’t just known for breaking cinematic rules — he’s made a career out of it. The Oscar-winning director behind Jojo Rabbit and Thor: Ragnarok brings the same creative flair to his red-carpet appearances, and his latest watch choice at the 2025 Producers Guild Awards shows he knows when to let quiet elegance speak volumes.
The Kiwi filmmaker’s choice of the IWC Portofino Automatic might seem surprisingly understated for someone known for bold choices, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect. In a world of oversized statement pieces, Waititi’s selection confirms that true style sometimes arrives in a quiet whisper, rather than a diamond-encrusted shout.
The Perfect Dress Watch
The IWC Portofino Automatic is a masterclass in elegant simplicity — a 40mm stainless steel case that slides effortlessly under a dress cuff. Its classic white dial is a minimalist approach delivering timeless appeal, while the three-hand layout with a discreet date display keeps things elegant and uncomplicated. The silver-plated dial paired with a black alligator leather strap creates that perfect balance of sophistication and versatility that works as well in the boardroom as it does on the red carpet.
What makes this piece particularly interesting is its accessibility. While IWC is celebrated for its complex perpetual calendars and technical innovations — as seen in the Swiss luxury brand’s recent GPHG win — the Portofino line proves they can deliver the same level of refinement without the astronomical price tag. The scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides shows that no detail is overlooked, even in their more accessible pieces.
For anyone looking to capture that elusive combination of timeless elegance and Swiss precision — without requiring a Hollywood director’s budget — the Portofino makes a compelling case. It’s a reminder that sometimes the boldest choice you can make is choosing not to shout at all.
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The IWC Connection
This isn’t Waititi’s first dance with IWC; the New Zealand director was spotted wearing the award-winning Portugieser Perpetual Calendar at last September’s Emmy Awards – a fitting release for such a prestigious night.
In November last year, the Portugieser Perpetual Calendar was recognised in the world of haute horlogerie, receiving the Aiguille d’Or at the 2024 GPHG awards.
