Regulator dials have a very interesting design and have been around for many years. Unfortunately, it never really had its “moment to shine.” Chronoswiss, a small brand founded in 1983 by Gerd-R Lang, in Munich, Germany. Is known for the re-creation of the Regulator.
Chronoswiss has been known for making watches with unique and complex designs. The Sirius Flying Grand Regulator is no exception. The watch has a 44mm Stainless steel case. Like many parts of the watch, the case appears to have 3 levels with 2 Bezels. Both are polished and screwed-down. Each bezel has side knurling which gives them a coin-like edge appearance. The coin-edge is a reminiscent of older watches and earlier Chronoswiss pieces. A piece of stainless steel, which is partly polished and has a vertical satin finish, it is sandwiched between the two bezels. The lugs are attached to the curvature of the case and create a nice curled look.
Intriguing Dial
The most intriguing part of the watch is the dial, which has multiple tiers or levels. The bottom or base of the dial is in Galvanic blue and has a guilloche pattern, which stands out and gives the watch an interesting and sophisticated design. The mid or second layer is connected to the first level with screw-down bases. The scale used for the central minute display is connected to these bases giving it depth. Arabic numerals are used for the minutes on the display face with indices printed in white. On the third and final level is the funnel-like, floating displays for the hours and seconds. The hour and second displays are both off-centered.
The hours on the Sirius Flying Grand Regulator which are found at 12 o’clock are written in Roman Numerals, which is an interesting option as it gives the watch a more sophisticated look and redirects it from being sporty. Meanwhile the seconds dial, which is smaller than the hours dial and is found at 6 o’clock and has Arabic numerals. Both the hour and minute hands are rhodium plated and diamond cut. Both hands have a very modern appeal and help to enhance the unique design of the watch, although the second hand is red and tends to blend with galvanic blue background which makes it somewhat difficult to see.
Another strip of Galvanic Blue was added to bisect the dial, creating a symmetrical appearance. Protecting the dial is a curved, non-reflective sapphire crystal. Unfortunately, this was not the best decision. When looking at the watch under certain conditions, the light creates a blinding effect rendering the watch difficult to read. In the rear of the watch, displayed through another sapphire crystal is the hand/manual wound Chronoswiss Caliber C.678. This is easily noticeable as there is no rotor. Through the caseback you can see an array of different wheels and gears, the barrels and the watches 17 jewels. The watch has a 40 hour power reserve which is a decent amount of time.
Patented Strap
The watch was delivered with a thick blue Louisiana alligator leather strap which is very comfortable and cushions your wrist. The strap has a folding clasp which is very secure. To adjust the clasp and the size of the strap you have to unscrew the buckle that is holding the strap in place, then adjust the size and screw it back in.
The strap is connected to the watch using Chronoswiss’ patented auto-bloc system. The straps/strap bars are screwed into the lugs which allows for greater protection.
Final Thoughts
The watch is an exceptional piece. It has an amazing build quality. The piece is very comfortable on the wrist. Although you might be deceived by it, the size is not as large as some might believe it to be. Chronoswiss paid attention to detail and created a modern watch with a vintage design. The watch does include some extra features such that the watch is equipped with a device that allows the crown to stop so you do not overwind it. This is extremely helpful as many might not know how many times they are supposed to wind the crown or the exact amount of times they wound it. It is water resistant up to 3 bars. The watch is available in a variety of different colors and styles.
The Chronoswiss Sirius Flying Grand Regulator ref. CH-6723-BLBL is priced at around $7700usd. To have a look at the entire Chronoswiss range you can visit their official website here.
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