[2025 Edition] Immerse yourself in the intricate mechanisms! 5 recommended classic chronographs

Today, we will be introducing our top 5 recommended classic chronographs for 2025, where you can enjoy the intricate mechanisms.

Now that mobile phones and smartwatches are widespread, few people may use the stopwatch function of mechanical watches, called "chronographs," on a daily basis. However, chronographs, which measure time accurately using only physical mechanisms without electronic devices, are a mechanism that embodies the "romance of mechanical watches," which demonstrates the high level of technical expertise of the brand, and there is no end to enthusiasts who are captivated by their charm.

This time, Commit Ginza has picked out five chronographs that are full of romance and technical skill. Please read to the end.

If you are interested in any of the watches, please register your interest in them now.

① [Omega] "Speedmaster Caliber 321" "Ref. 311.30.40.30.01.001"

The Speedmaster Caliber 321 is a faithful reproduction of the famous 1960s Caliber 321, which was released as a new model in 2020. Omega has reproduced the Cal. 321, the manual-winding chronograph movement that built the history of the Speedmaster, using modern technology.

The 39.7mm case is a straight case with no crown guard, the Omega logo is applied to the dial, and the bezel has a dot over the number 90, which is a bit of a niche feature, and the "dot over 90" is faithfully reproduced. The sapphire crystal glass windshield and bezel are also made of ceramic, making it suitable for everyday use.

The see-through case back allows you to fully enjoy the beautiful movement of the exquisitely crafted Cal.321. It combines the functional beauty of a chronograph with a design that respects tradition. Just looking at it makes you feel the history, making it a true masterpiece of a chronograph.

② [Rolex] "Daytona El Primero" "Ref. 16520"

The Daytona El Primero "Ref. 16520" was manufactured from 1988 to around 2000.
Based on Zenith's famous El Primero, this watch is equipped with Rolex's unique improved movement, Cal. 4030. It combines high precision and durability, making it a highly practical piece.

The 40mm case size, tachymeter bezel, and three well-balanced subdials create a perfect face, and the design strikes an exquisite balance between sportiness and elegance, making it an appealing choice. In addition, various minor changes were made during the 12-year production period, and the model has attracted attention among enthusiasts as a model with different details depending on the year.

The beautiful layout of the Daytona El Primero "Ref. 16520" has been carefully thought out down to the last detail, making it a perfect "chronograph to enjoy looking at." It is a masterpiece that has made its mark in the history of chronographs in both name and reality.

③ [A. Lange & Söhne] "1815 Chronograph" "Ref. 402.026"

The A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Chronograph, which was released in 2004, was named after the year of the birth of the company's founder, Adolf Lange.

The solid silver dial features a railroad minute track and Arabic indexes, creating a traditional and highly visible face. The white gold case adds a sense of dignity and elegance to this watch.

The in-house movement "Cal.L951.5" has an overwhelming finish and three-dimensional effect that can be seen from the back cover. The beauty of the mechanism, such as the column wheel mechanism and free-sprung balance wheel, which are unique to hand-wound chronographs, is also captivating just by looking at it. This is a model that allows you to enjoy both the neat appearance and the artistic mechanism hidden behind it.

④ [Audemars Piguet] "Royal Oak Chronograph" "Ref. 26331ST.OO.1220ST.02"

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph, Ref. 26331ST.OO.1220ST.02, was released in 2017.

The Royal Oak's signature octagonal bezel, screw-fastened design, and integrated bracelet are now icons of luxury sports watches. The 41mm stainless steel case features a black dial with a finely engraved "Grande Tapisserie" pattern, creating a beautiful finish.

The automatic chronograph movement is "Cal. 2385". The finish is both luxurious and practical, and the case and bracelet are polished to perfection, so the more you look at them, the more you'll fall in love with them.

The design combines strength and elegance, making it a perfect watch for a "chronograph to enjoy looking at." It is the perfect example of a modern chronograph that combines sports and luxury.

⑤ [Patek Philippe] "Grand Complication" "Ref. 5370P-011"

[Patek Philippe] The Ref. 5370P-011 is a true grand complication model that combines a split-second chronograph with a classic design. Although it may appear modest at first glance, its appearance is packed with the prestigious brand's technology and aesthetic sense.

The case is made of solid platinum and is 41mm in size. The dial is a Grand Feu blue enamel dial, with a uniform, glossy, vivid blue color that gives off a unique charm. The highly visible Breguet numerals and leaf hands give a classical impression and a sophisticated sense of balance.

The watch is equipped with the hand-wound movement "Cal. CHR 29-535 PS." The mechanism, which can be seen through the case back, is a work of art, with the complex structure unique to split-seconds and the thorough finishing that is characteristic of Patek.

This is not just a highly functional watch, but a "silent masterpiece" that will stand the test of time. Its breathtaking beauty is worthy of being the pinnacle of chronographs. For watch enthusiasts, this is the pinnacle of their dreams.

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What did you think?

A chronograph is not just a stopwatch, but a special mechanism that offers the joy of a showy design, such as the layout of the subdials on the dial and the arrangement of the hands. All five of the models introduced here are worthy of being called masterpieces, with a perfect balance between the functional beauty of the machine and the perfection of the design.

You will be captivated every time you look at it, and rather than trying to measure the time, you will find yourself "forgetting time" as you gaze at it - we encourage you to try this experience on your wrist.