Today we will be sending you our top 5 recommended chronograph mechanical watches for 2023 .
The word "chronograph" is a combination of the Greek words " Chronos " meaning "time" and " Graphos " meaning "to record," and refers to a watch with a stopwatch function.
However, there are many types of chronographs, such as the "flyback chronograph" which allows you to reset the chronograph hands while the stopwatch function is running and measure again, the "one-push chronograph" which can start, stop and reset with one button, the "split-second chronograph" which allows multiple measurements using two chronograph hands, etc. Furthermore, although you probably won't use the stopwatch function much in your daily life, the appeal of a watch with a chronograph is its design.
Taking that into consideration, we would like to introduce five carefully selected models that we recommend to those who are interested in chronographs! We hope you will enjoy reading to the end.
*This price is based on our store's selling prices as of April 2023.
① [Vacheron Constantin] "Overseas Chronograph" "Ref. 5500V / 110A-B686"
*Source: https://www.vacheron-constantin.com/jp/ja/collections/overseas/5500v-110a-b686.html
The Overseas Chronograph "Ref. 5500V" was released in 2016 as the third generation chronograph model. The "Ref. 5500V/110A-B075 (silver dial)" that was previously in the lineup has been discontinued, and the "Ref. 5500V/110A-B686" that we are introducing this time was released in 2023.
The black on the subdials and the outer periphery of the dial gives this watch a sharp and taut impression, and the see-through back, which has been used since the third generation Overseas Chronograph, allows you to see the in-house movement "Cal. 5200" that has been awarded the Geneva Seal and took about five years to develop. It is also equipped with an "interchangeable system" that allows you to change the strap with one touch without using tools, so it is easy to change it to a SS (stainless steel) bracelet, calf strap, or rubber strap depending on the situation and season. This "panda" version is sure to be popular, so we recommend you check it out now.
● Estimated budget: 5,000,000 to 6,000,000 yen
*Since this is a new model for 2023, it will not be available on the secondary market, and the price is expected to fluctuate significantly from the above.
② [A. Lange & Söhne] "1815 Chronograph" "Ref. 401.026"
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/a-lange_and_sohne/1815-chronograph-288192/
The 1815 is a watch dedicated to Adolf Lange, the founder of A. Lange & Söhne, and is named after his birth year. When it comes to chronographs from this brand, many people may think of the Datograph, which is widely regarded as the pinnacle of mechanical chronographs, but the 1815 Chronograph is an equally attractive model.
Nicknamed the "Doctor's Chronograph," this watch has a classic and distinctive design with a pulse meter that displays your pulse rate and Arabic numerals on the outer periphery of the dial. The movement is the "Cal.L951.0," a hand-wound chronograph that omits the date display from the "Cal.L951.1" that was adopted by the Datograph in 1999. With a diameter of 39.5mm and a thickness of 11mm, it fits comfortably on the wrist and is one of the most highly acclaimed models among mechanical watches, including its design and performance. This is a watch that we highly recommend to anyone who wants to enjoy the beauty that only a mechanical watch can offer.
● Estimated budget: around 8,000,000 yen
3. Patek Philippe: Chronograph, Ref. 5170G-010
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/patek_philippe/patek-philippe-other/chronograph-274333/
The "Ref. 5170G-010" was released in 2015 and was discontinued after just two years.
This watch condenses the charm of Patek Philippe with an 18KWG (white gold) case, a black dial with two counters, Breguet numerals on the index, and leaf hands. The case diameter has been reduced from 42mm to 39mm from the previous model, making it even more comfortable to wear. The movement visible through the see-through back has been changed from the Lemania-based Cal.CH 27-70 to the fully in-house developed Cal.CH 29-535 PS, but you will definitely be captivated by the beauty of the finish. The elegant and beautiful finish and the design reminiscent of the good old days. This is a watch that you should definitely enjoy.
Estimated budget: around 8,000,000 yen
④ [Omega][Omega] "Speedmaster Caliber 321" "Ref.311.30.40.30.01.001".
This model follows the design of the 3rd model of the Speedmaster before the Moonwatch, and features a 39.7mm case diameter that fits comfortably on the wrist, a white enamel tachymeter scale, and a polished black ceramic bezel. It is also the first Speedmaster model equipped with the Cal.321 to feature a see-through back. The original Cal.321 was made of pure copper with a power reserve of about 36 hours, but the mainspring has been changed to a longer one, extending the power reserve to about 55 hours. It also uses Sedna gold, which is highly resistant to corrosion. It seems that not many are being supplied to the secondary market, but the price has calmed down a bit compared to the period when it was soaring, so if you've been looking for one, now may be your chance.
● Estimated budget: around 2,800,000 yen
⑤ [Rolex] "Daytona" "Ref. 116519"
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/daytona/daytona-197992/
The Rolex Daytona is one of the most famous watches and is described as the king of chronographs. This is the alligator strap version, Ref. 116519, released in 2000.
The unique meteorite dial was added in 2003. However, it was discontinued in the new model announcement in 2023, so I think it is a dial that is attracting a lot of attention. Because it is a natural stone, each one has a different look, and the "DAYTONA" markings and the red accent color used on the hands, as well as the Roman indexes, are unique to this generation. It seems that the price is rising every year and the amount in circulation is decreasing, so I think you should definitely get your hands on one now.
● Estimated budget: around 6,000,000 yen
summary
What did you think.
We have a wide lineup of chronograph models, and this time we have selected a wide range, from classics to those that are popular with experts. However, we think that many people are still worried about which model to choose. Our store has knowledgeable staff on-site, so we will give you advice based on design, functions, budget, etc. Please feel free to contact us!
Once again, I hope this article helps you find your favorite one.
see you!
*Source: https://www.commit-watch.co.jp/buyer/watches/mens/rolex/daytona/daytona-197992/