IWC yesterday inaugurated its first Italian boutique, on the Spanish Steps in Rome. In the presence of renowned personalities from the worlds of film, art and culture, IWC CEO Georges Kern, IWC Italy Brand Manager Beppe Ambrosini, Vittoria Puccini and Pierfrancesco Favino, respectively godmother and godfather of the evening, cut the ribbon in one of the world's most famous squares. "It is an honour to present our mechanical masterpieces, our philosophy and our tradition in Rome, in Piazza di Spagna; this place, besides being known worldwide for its high artistic and cultural content, has been chosen by many internationally renowned directors as the backdrop for famous film sets," said Georges Kern. "All of which once again underlines our passion for cinema. This year, the recurring IWC Filmmaker Award at the Cannes International Film Festival and the Dubai International Film Festival were joined by official partnerships with the Tribeca Film Festival in New York and the Beijing International Film Festival." The more than 150 guests were welcomed inside a film set set up in front of the boutique windows in an atmosphere reminiscent of the film 'Roman Holiday'. Among the personalities who wished to toast the first IWC boutique in Italy, in addition to Vittoria Puccini and Pierfrancesco Favino, were showman Rosario Fiorello, actor Ricky Tognazzi, directors Edoardo Ponti and Jacopo Gassman and chef Filippo La Mantia. Afterwards, the guests reached the charming terrace of the Hotel Hassler, where they could enjoy dinner with chef Francesco Apreda and his live cooking. Under a starry early summer sky, the evening continued with an exclusive concert by Aloe Blacc and his band. To mark the opening, IWC presented a special version of the Portofino Chronograph (Ref. 3910) dedicated to this impor tant event: a limited edition of 28 watches sold exclusively in Piazza di Spagna 28. The watch features a special Santoni strap that replaces the classic alligator leather strap. The case back has a special feature that makes it unique compared with the Portofino Chronograph in the collection: the engraving of the famous Spanish Steps and the limited edition "ONE OUT OF 28" as well as the prestigious boutique address.
