Since the chronograph complication is by its nature often associated with sports, it is perhaps not surprising that the majority of chronograph watches on the market are sporty in nature. But, if you love chronograph timepieces, and want something dressier, what options might you have? One of my first suggestions would be to check out the IWC Portuguese Chrono-Automatic watch . A wonderfully balanced design, this IWC Portuguese timepiece is not just elegant for a chronograph, it is elegant—period. This is one of that rare breed of chronograph timepieces that immediately come to mind which is suitable, appropriate, and even beautiful with a finely tailored business suit. Some of the many fine details that contribute to this exquisite impression include the richly finished case with the stalk-type buttons and the slim polished bezel. However, the dial absolutely takes the cake, with its perfectly uncluttered design, shapely leaf-style hands, and the cabochon minute track that catches the light so nicely. And, I commend IWC for leaving off the date display–while this function is unarguably useful, the aesthetics of the Portuguese Chronograph would be diminished if it had one. When this watch is on your wrist, you somehow don’t mind looking up at that calendar on the wall.

As a final thought, the IWC Portuguese Chrono-Automatic is one of those watches that is great in any dial/metal combination. My personal favorites are the 18K pink gold version with the black dial, and the stainless steel model with silvered dial and contrasting rose gold-colored elements.