Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. Carl F. Bucherer Manero Flyback “Racing” in Rose Gold
Cool retro flair and racing vibes for Carl F. Bucherer's signature chronograph watch.
The Manero is one of Carl F. Bucherer’s best-selling collections, thanks to an elegant design and advanced mechanics. Along with the “peripheral rotor” models, the Manero Flyback has been a MONOCHROME favourite within the brand’s line-up since it was introduced in 2016. At Baselworld 2019, the Luzern-based manufacture introduced a luxurious black dial/rose gold version of the steel “racing” model we reviewed here, a classic two-register chronograph that stands out with its cool retro flair and racing vibes.
Inspired by the heyday of motorsports and watchmaking
The first thing to catch your attention with this new version of the Carl F. Bucherer Manero Flyback is its superb dial. It comes in a bi-compax reverse-panda layout. Recessed subsidiary dials, at 3 and 9 o’clock respectively, house a 30-minute totaliser and a small seconds register. These are well-proportioned and spaced enough to create an elegant display – which is consistent with the rather large diameter of the watch. The recipe is the same as used with the 2018 steel “Racing” model, however now housed in a precious metal case, with slightly updated colours.
Matching the colour of the case, “Carl F. Bucherer” and the brand’s logo are printed in a rose gold colour. So are the openwork dauphine-style hands and the triangular faceted hour markers that really pop against the black dial. Consistent with the racing inspiration of the watch, the dial is framed by a tachymeter scale. The red accents – the central chronograph seconds hand, the thin line around the tachymeter and the strap’s stitching – are a cool sporty touch.
Measuring 43mm in diameter, the well-proportioned 18k rose gold case features soft curves and fluid lines. The mushroom-shaped pump pushers and domed sapphire crystal really drive home the vintage style. On the wrist, it looks good and it wears comfortably thanks to ergonomic lugs. These are lightened with a polished chamfer, giving the case an elegant look. The case is beautifully finished with alternate brushed and polished surfaces. The exhibition caseback is secured by 6 screws. Water-resistance is of 30 meters (a bit short, in all fairness). Still, this Carl F. Bucherer Manero Flyback “Racing” is one pleasing watch.
Self-winding integrated column-wheel chronograph
Inside is the automatic calibre CFB1970. This interesting chronograph is a proprietary movement based on a well-known workhorse, the ETA-Valjoux 7750. However, it is extensively modified (with La Joux-Perret) to feature a flyback function. In addition, the traditional 7750 cam-and-lever chronograph command is replaced by a column-wheel. This modified chronograph architecture is visible via the exhibition caseback, in particular, the blued column-wheel.
The movement’s decoration includes blued screws, Geneva stripes and circular graining. The calibre CFB 1970 ticks at 28,800 vibrations per hour and boasts a 42-hour power reserve. It is a nice evolution of a well-known and reliable architecture, permitting exclusivity at a controlled price.
The aged, perforated dark grey kudu (antelope) leather strap brings the final touch to this beautiful classic chronograph. It is secured to the wrist by a rose gold pin buckle.
Price and Availability
The Carl F. Bucherer Manero Flyback “Racing’ in pink gold (reference 00.10919.03.33.02) is now available and retails for CHF 16,900 or EUR 15,900. For more information, you can visit www.carl-f-bucherer.com.
