For those who are no longer satisfied with ordinary chronographs: 5 models with extra measurement functions

We will introduce five models that not only feature a chronograph mechanism but also add some kind of added value to its measurement functions. We will focus on the individuality of each model, from models that add familiar complex mechanisms to models that incorporate unique features from each manufacturer.

Introducing five masterpieces with distinctive features thanks to their chronograph mechanism and more

　Among the many complicated mechanisms, the chronograph is highly popular. Not only is it highly practical, allowing you to easily measure elapsed time, but its design, featuring multiple subdials and hands, and the aesthetic appeal of its movement, including its polished lever, are elements that cannot be enjoyed with a simple three-hand model. In addition, today's chronographs are designed to be more durable and easier to use.

　This time, we will introduce some models that have added some kind of added value among these chronograph watches.Flyback,Split-secondsLet's take a look at some masterpieces that incorporate the wisdom and technology of each company, from models equipped with more complex chronograph mechanisms such as these to incredibly thin models.

Breguet "Type XX 2067" Ref. 2067ST/92/3WU

　The Type XX 2067 pilot chronograph is a reproduction of the Type 20, a civilian model supplied by Breguet to the French Air Force in the 1950s. Like the original, it features a flyback mechanism.

　The stainless steel case features a bidirectional rotating bezel with 12-hour scales, and the black dial features alpha-shaped hour and minute hands and Arabic numeral indexes. It also features a large 15-minute counter at 3 o'clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock, a small second at 9 o'clock, and a date display at 4:30, making it highly functional.

　Of particular note is the newly developed automatic flyback chronograph movement, Cal. 728. Not only does it have a robust structure designed with flyback functionality in mind, allowing for instant zeroing and restarting, but it also features a high beat rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour, ensuring high portable accuracy, and excellent magnetic resistance thanks to the use of a silicon balance spring and escapement. The movement can be viewed through the see-through case back.

IWC Portuguese Chronograph Yacht Club, Ref. IW390702

The Portugieser Chronograph Yacht Club follows the elegant design of the Portugieser collection while incorporating sportier elements. The large 44.6mm case has a crown guard and is water resistant to 10 bar.

　The dial, with its two vertical subdials, is a layout that is symbolic of the Portugieser Chronograph. Typically, two-counter chronographs feature a 30-minute counter and a small second hand, and can only measure up to 30 minutes. However, this model features a 60-minute counter and a 12-hour counter coaxially arranged on the subdial at 12 o'clock, making it possible to measure up to 12 hours. The chronograph is equipped with a flyback mechanism, allowing it to be reset and restarted instantly even during measurement.

　The in-house automatic movement, Cal. 89361, has a practical power reserve of approximately 68 hours and is equipped with a Pellaton winding mechanism that uses ceramic parts to enhance durability.

Zenith Chronomaster Sport Titanium Ref. 95.3100.3600/39.M3100

　This 2024 addition to the Zenith Chronomaster Sport line is a new addition. As its name suggests, the case and bracelet are made of grade 5 titanium. While the existing lineup often features colorful models, including the bezel and inset dials, this model stands out for its unified, subdued color palette. The galvanic nickel gray dial is paired with three inset dials: anthracite, gray, and silver.

　The watch is equipped with the Caliber El Primero 3600, the latest version of El Primero, one of the earliest automatic chronograph movements. Its distinctive feature is its chronograph mechanism, which utilizes a high vibration rate of 36,000 vibrations per hour. While the central chronograph second hand rotates once every 60 seconds in a typical chronograph, this model rotates once every 10 seconds. This allows accurate readings of measurements less than one second. The subdials function as a 60-second counter at 3 o'clock, a 60-minute counter at 6 o'clock, and a small seconds at 9 o'clock.

Breitling Premier B15 Duograph 42, Ref. AB1510171C1P1

　The current "Premier" is an elegant collection inspired by the chronograph watch of the same name that was released in 1943. The design, including the graceful case lines and three-dimensional Arabic numeral indexes, is something that is rarely seen in other Breitling collections, which tend to have a more massive impression.

The Premier B15 Duograph 42 is a model equipped with a split-seconds chronograph. Two chronograph seconds hands are overlapped in the center, and by pressing the pusher on the same axis as the crown while the chronograph is running, one chronograph second hand stops, allowing two different times to be measured simultaneously.

　The movement used is the hand-wound Cal. B15. Based on the in-house automatic split chronograph movement Cal. B03, this model inherits its robustness and ease of maintenance.

　The case back is see-through, allowing you to view the movement with its striped decoration. Because there is no automatic winding rotor, you can fully enjoy the chronograph's unique mechanisms, such as the balance wheel, column wheel, and lever.

Bvlgari "Octo Finissimo Chronograph GMT" Ref. 103661

　Based on the Octo Finissimo, a model synonymous with slim watches, this model is equipped with a chronograph and GMT function. The three subdials are a second time zone display at 3 o'clock, a 30-minute counter at 6 o'clock, and a small second at 9 o'clock. The second time zone display can be adjusted in one-hour increments using the push button at 9 o'clock.

　Chronographs typically require the incorporation of numerous levers and springs, making them thick. However, this model, despite being equipped with a GMT function, has a case thickness of 8.75mm. The movement itself is kept to just 3.3mm thick. By using a peripheral rotor for the automatic winding mechanism, space is freed in the center, where the parts are assembled like a puzzle. The chronograph operation is controlled by a horizontal clutch and column wheel.

　The see-through case back allows you to see the striped decorated bridges and gears. Another attractive feature is that it is water resistant to 100m despite its thin case.