Celebrating the New Nivada Grenchen x Worn & Wound Restricted Version Chronomasters and Datomasters
Phrases by Windup Watch Store
It seems lightning can strike twice. After we collaborated with Nivada Grenchen only a yr in the past on a (very) restricted run of Chronomaster Valjoux 72 and Datomaster VK64 watches, we knew they have been particular however have been uncertain about the potential for repeating such an act. In spite of everything, unused Valjoux 72 actions don’t simply pop up out of nowhere. As luck would have it, Nivada Grenchen has managed to safe one other, smaller, batch of Valjoux 72 actions that serves as the inspiration for the Nivada Grenchen x Worn & Wound Chronomaster V2. We haven’t forgotten concerning the Datomaster both; this yr’s version makes a return using one other Meca-Quartz motion – this time in a triple-register format. The core of what makes this new launch so thrilling relies on two components: the horological significance of the Valjoux 72 and the contemporary designs of the Chronomaster and Datomaster.
First up, the famed motion. The story of the Valjoux 72 motion begins with its progenitor, the Valjoux 22. Launched in 1914 and colloquially referred to as “Caliber 15”, this little engine was a column-wheel monopusher with the power to trace elapsed time as much as half-hour thanks to 2 registers. Because the Nice Melancholy was winding down in 1938, the Valjoux 72 made its debut. It was, in each means, an improve, constructing on the 18,000 bph column wheel structure by including a 3rd register for counting as much as 12 elapsed hours. Historical past has since confirmed this triple-register, duo pusher chronograph kind issue merely iconic. If it was adequate to energy Heuer Autavias and Carreras, Breitling Navitimers, and Rolex Daytonas, it was adequate for anyone. To carry again this legendary caliber is one thing we couldn’t be extra enthusiastic about.
Now, the watches. The brand new Chronomaster takes on a lighter, arguably extra versatile coloration scheme than final yr’s model. Whereas final yr’s mannequin was impressed by the shadows and moodiness of overcast days, the V2 celebrates the enjoyment and lightheartedness of a sunny day. Essentially the most outstanding visible cues are the matching teal bezel and sub-dials at three and 9 o’clock. Paler blue fingers and accents alongside the racing-style chapter ring complement the darker tones whereas working properly with the sand-colored dial. The orange tip of the chronograph hand provides a splash of coloration. As a complete, the watch takes on a “much less is extra” method to design and execution. On the flip aspect, the inclusion of each open and closed casebacks enable the wearer to admire the Valjoux 72 inside or hold the key to themselves. Additionally included is a burgundy suede rally strap to change issues up from the beads of rice bracelet. The Nivada Grenchen x Worn & Wound Chronomaster Valjoux 72 V2 is proscribed to fifteen items and is priced at $6,900 (restrict one per buyer). It’s out there for order now within the Windup Watch Store.
The Nivada Grenchen x Wound & Wound Datomaster V2 additionally receives important updates in its second iteration. Philosophically, if the Chronomaster is a tribute of a motion and period passed by, the trendy Datomaster is the celebration of the trendy marvels in motion expertise and manufacturing. The Seiko-built VK63 motion on this yr’s launch encompasses a sub-dial at 6 for operating seconds and establishes the triple register format in a extra compact kind issue (36mm x 43.5mm x 12mm). Apparently, the dial aperture of the Datomaster is even bigger than that of the Chronomaster, so the result’s a watch that’s even smaller on the wrist whereas sustaining a powerful visible presence. The Datomaster enjoys the identical teal and sand base colorway because the Chronomaster and is paired with a medium brown leather-based rally strap. It’s restricted to 150 items and is accessible now for $499 from the Windup Watch Store.
For extra particulars, view the press launch right here in addition to a YouTube video from our channel.
