The identify Vulcain is synonymous with alarm watches. Within the Nineteen Sixties and Seventies, the model was largely identified for this particular complication. In recent times, Vulcain has made a comeback and expanded its assortment to divers, chronographs, and now time-only fashions. The Grand Prix line is the only of all of them.
I spent a couple of weeks with the Vulcain Grand Prix 39mm Champagne, the most affordable, plainest mannequin in Vulcain’s present lineup. It presents the magnificence and usefulness {that a} three-hander may give you and doesn’t fail to ship. Surprisingly, I grew connected to the watch and didn’t need to take it off after the check interval ended.
Vulcain
Just a few years in the past, when the model was making a comeback, the main focus was on alarm watches — what else? The Cricket Classique line was among the many first to hit the market. However Vulcain presents a lot extra than simply alarm watches. Within the final two years, we’ve spent a while with the Skindiver Nautique, a ravishing and practical diver, in addition to its large brother, the Vulcain Nautical. The latter combines the performance of an alarm and a diver’s case, creating a singular reinterpretation of a mannequin from a bygone period. Other than these, the rejuvenated Vulcain has additionally launched two strains of chronographs, the Chronograph 1970’s and the Monopusher. Lastly, we arrive on the subject of at this time’s article, the Grand Prix. Containing the identical classic power because the fashions above, the GP presents super worth for cash with its clear strains and timeless magnificence.
Grand Prix
Like the opposite fashions, the Grand Prix additionally attracts inspiration from classic Vulcain watches. Nonetheless, except for the identify and the fundamental thought, there’s nothing related between these and this new mannequin. The inspiration for the design and execution could have come from older watches, however they’re new. Maybe the one related design component is the mannequin’s identify beneath the model identify at 12 o’clock. Vulcain presents the Grand Prix in three dial variations. Other than silver and black, one can select champagne because the dial colour. That is what I opted for. Whereas I really like the simplicity of the silver and black dials, I really feel that the champagne model presents its wearer a bit extra. This can be a colour we don’t see typically, particularly not on this case measurement.
Modern traditional
One of many tendencies I’ve seen within the watch business lately is timepieces shrinking. Gone are the times when 46mm monstrosities dominated the market. These days, you may barely discover a watch bigger than 42mm, and I’m all for this. Within the official press materials, Vulcain lists the scale of the Grand Prix as 39mm, however after measuring it with my calipers, I can report back to you that it’s extra like 38mm. Sure, it’s nonetheless extra outstanding than the 33–35mm classic Grand Prix fashions was once, however I’m proud of the scale. It’s neither too giant nor too small, the candy spot for many watch wearers. The 45.4mm size from lug tip to lug tip can be good, and I believe the 12.7mm thickness is okay, particularly if we do not forget that the brand new Grand Prix is an easy automated watch with no numerals, date aperture, or the rest.
We simply discover a clear structure with lengthy, raised indexes on a semi-gloss dial in a champagne hue. A double-domed sapphire crystal with an antireflective coating covers the watch face. As there are not any different options, the slim metal fingers solely present you the hours and minutes with heart seconds. The 316L metal case is polished, even on the edges of the quick lugs, whereas the case again is strong stainless-steel and polished with some brushed parts. Whereas the crown doesn’t screw down, the case again is a screw-in sort, serving to to supply water resistance to five ATM (50 meters), which is greater than sufficient. You most likely received’t take the Vulcain Grand Prix swimming with you, particularly not on the 20mm leather-based strap, which is out there in a number of completely different colours and kinds.
Beating coronary heart
Inside the brand new Vulcain Grand Prix beats Landeron’s L24 automated mechanical motion. The 25-jewel L24 is an ETA 2824-based caliber, normally with a date complication. That was eliminated for this mannequin. It presents an influence reserve of about 40 hours, a 28,800vph (4Hz) frequency, and hacking seconds, permitting the wearer to set the time exactly. Whereas the Landeron 24 will not be a very subtle motion, it doesn’t have to be. As a substitute, it’s anticipated to be a dependable and simply serviceable caliber, and it’s exactly that. Moreover, because of its nice value, Vulcain can supply the Grand Prix very competitively.
Closing arguments
Beginning at CHF 1,190 on the pictured brown strap, the brand new Vulcain Grand Prix is definitely throughout the value vary of Swiss-made time-only watches. One may argue that it’s even on the cheaper aspect of the spectrum. That, for my part, is a secondary subject. A very powerful query is that this: is it sufficient to be a contender for a gown watch, a chic timepiece that works simply as effectively with fits and ties as with a polo shirt and denims? Sure, I imagine it’s. The dial variants provide you with sufficient versatility and could be paired with an unlimited choice of leather-based straps. As at all times, the proof is within the pudding, so I’d counsel you verify the be careful within the steel earlier than shopping for it if doable. I’d be shocked for those who didn’t prefer it in any case.
To see all of the Grand Prix dial variants and obtainable strap combos, go to the official Vulcain web site.
