IWC Schaffhausen and Orlebar Brown have picked the perfect month of July to announce their new partnership. Marking the start of their collaboration, the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer has unveiled the Portugieser Yacht Club Chronograph Edition “Orlebar Brown”, alongside the clothing brand’s new nine-piece collection of resort wear. In stainless steel with a marine-blue dial, elegantly-proportioned case and a co-branded side-fastener deployment strap, the nautical chronograph, which is water-resistant up to 6 bar, is the perfect timepiece for sailing yachts and relaxing on the beach.

The Orlebar Brown brand was founded by Adam Brown in London after an invitation to a friend’s 40th birthday party in Rajasthan. Around the hotel pool, he noticed that the usually well-dressed group were found wanting when it came to the style of the men in attendance, due to the selection of briefs, board shorts and shapeless boxerstyle shorts on show. When changing into something more appropriate for lunch, Adam realised he wanted something that he could seamlessly wear for both swimming and socialising. Eighteen months later, the first pair of Orlebar Brown swim shorts was sold.

As is the case with IWC and its watches, Orlebar Brown places great importance on the smallest details. Based on the pattern of a pair of traditional men’s suit trousers, Orlebar Brown’s swim shorts are crafted from 60 elements and developed to feature a four-part shaped waistband, zip closure and adjustable side-fasteners for the perfect fit. Recognisable due to their hallmark side-fasteners, their classic swim shorts are refreshed in new iterations each season and come with a 5-year guarantee as a testament to their quality and durability. Each pair is designed to be tailored to the dynamic lifestyles of sailors, adventurers and explorers.

“IWC and Orlebar Brown are united by the passion they feel every day for craftsmanship, innovation and quality. Orlebar Brown has reinvented sporty, elegant leisurewear and has proven with its unique, tailored approach that men can also look good in casual outfits. The company is one of the most innovative in its sector and continues to set high standards when it comes to comfort, quality and functionality.”

Christoph Grainger-Herr, CEO of IWC Schaffhausen