Four Chronographs That Break The Mold
One of the most popular complications in the world of watches is still the chronograph. It adds a dynamic feature to a watch and more ways to interact with it. With various subdials it also makes the watch look more sportive and technical. No wonder that the vast majority of brands often have several chronograph models to choose from. However, there are a few that go beyond just being a chronograph, and have broken the mold in this category.
Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona once broke the mold and then became the mold. It is one of the most imitated watches in the world, and for a good reason. Over the years this Rolex was groomed to even further perfection through evolution, not revolution. Today it is fitted with Rolex manufacture caliber 4130, which stands out by its engineering, in particular, the construction of its vertical clutch. The brand also resisted the temptation of going bigger and bolder, and that’s why the Daytona is still 40mm of chronograph perfection!
A. Lange & Söhne Triple Split
Within the category of chronographs the rattrapante, or split-second, version is even more elevated due to its increased complexity that allows you to measure not one, but two times simultaneously. With most rattrapantes you are limited to only a single minute within you can measure these two times. With the Triple Split A. Lange & Söhne extended this period to twelve hours! An incredible achievement that is made possible by a highly complex movement, which is to the brand’s traditions finished to perfection!
Omega Speedmaster
When the Omega Speedmaster was selected by the NASA as its official watch for astronauts, this model wasn’t even close to its zenith. It played an important role in the exploration of space, most notably because it was the first watch worn on the moon, and it made a vital contribution to the safe return of the Apollo 13 Spacecraft, for which NASA presented Omega with their Snoopy Award. The Speedmaster is still going strong, enticing collectors all around the globe, while Omega highlights its prestigious history with tantalizing limited editions.
Breguet Tradition 7077
One of the most beautiful things about Breguet is that it is a traditional brand that loves to innovate. This results in watches like the Tradition 7077, a chronograph that features two balance wheels. The benefit of this is that one is dedicated to the chronograph function, and the other to the timekeeping. This eliminates the problem of the negative impact that engaging and disengaging the chronograph function can have on the precision of the watch. Combine this with silicon pallets in the escapement and balance-wheels fitted with Breguet springs in silicon, and you know that being traditional doesn’t mean not moving forward!