The Striking New Editions Of The Carl F. Bucherer Manero Central Counter

Last year, the renowned Lucerne-based watchmaker, Carl F. Bucherer, unveiled the all-new Central Counter chronograph as part of their prestigious Manero collection. The timepiece was designed to appeal to elegant outdoor enthusiasts and sophisticated football fans, boasting an extra minute track ring with markings like “additional time,” “15 minutes extra time,” and “add. time” sectors. This football-inspired addition was a nod to Carl F. Bucherer’s partnership with the Swiss Football Association since 2016. However, for 2023, the Manero Central Counter will undergo a subtle yet impactful update. While the football-themed function bids farewell (though the partnership with the Association continues), the collection now offers a captivating array of new dial colours. Intrigued by the outdoor spirit of these timepieces, we spent some time with them to see how they fare in the world of sport and adventure and on the wrist.

The round stainless steel case of the Manero Central Counter, measuring 42.5mm in diameter and 14.43mm thick, wears comfortably on the wrist, yet exhibits a distinct, utilitarian vibe not commonly found in most other Manero chronographs. The combination of brushed and polished parts creates an eye-catching contrast, while the broader lugs with a polished chamfer lend a touch of rugged elegance. The pushers, designed like low-profile shiny buttons, exude a rough charm, and the glossy pull-out crown adds a subtle hint of sophistication. Adding to the visual allure, the steel tachymeter bezel is coated in polished black diamond-like carbon (also known as DLC and a tougher alternative to PVD), providing a striking contrast against the dial under the domed sapphire crystal.

With easy readability as the priority, the Manero Central Counter employs centrally mounted hands for displaying the chronograph timing of seconds and minutes, eliminating the need to navigate a usually crowded chronograph layout. The dial boasts a clean and uncluttered appearance, featuring two recessed snailed sub-dials in black, one for the 24-hour display and one for the running seconds, staying true to the essence of a typical chronograph design. Positioned at 6 o’clock, a practical date window complements the watch’s functionality. Enhanced with Super-LumiNova, the applied hour markers and hour and minute hands ensure excellent legibility even in low-light conditions. Notably, the chronograph minute hand with a white tip is painted to match the minute track, positioned along with the hour indices within the outer seconds’ ring, complementing the main dial colour for a cohesive design.

On the reverse, the transparent caseback, held securely by four screws, offers a glimpse of the self-winding CFB 1967 movement, with the winding rotor designed in the brand’s logo’s likeness. Built with 51 jewels, this calibre delivers a power reserve of 44 hours and beats at a frequency of 28,800vph. The CFB 1967 calibre utilizes a Sellita SW300 base with a Dubois Depraz chronograph module, offering reliable performance. While there are no complaints about the watch’s functionality, it’s worth noting that the water resistance of 30m could have been better. However, these watches are intended for something other than Amazonian jungle expeditions; they’re more suited for outdoor game-watching than playing.

The new Manero Central Counter chronographs come fitted with a quick-release hybrid rubber strap in black, further emphasizing their rugged appeal and adventurous spirit. A deployant clasp ensures a secure and comfortable fit. The retail price is set at CHF 8,000 or EUR 7,650, and each model is part of the permanent collection.

These four new references expand the Manero collection effortlessly, combining sportiness with elegance and intelligent design. This move is warmly welcomed and has been expected since the debut of the limited edition Central Counter football-themed reference last year. Well done, Carl F. Bucherer.

For more information, please visit www.carl-f-bucherer.com.