Chronoswiss Opus Chronograph Titanium, a Revamped Classic

In 1983, Gerd-Rüdiger Lang (1943-2023) established Chronoswiss as a mechanical watch brand, introducing several innovative concepts defining its distinctive style and producing a lasting impact on the watchmaking industry. Among these innovations were the transparent caseback, allowing a view of the intricate mechanics, and the regulator-type dial design for wristwatches. The skeletonised Chronoswiss models, a favourite among watch enthusiasts, hold a special place in the brand’s identity. Notably, Chronoswiss is credited as the first brand to offer self-winding skeletonised chronographs as part of serial production, a milestone achieved in 1995. Gerd-Rüdiger Lang relinquished control of Chronoswiss in 2012, but in 2022, nearly 80 years old, he unveiled another brand, Lang 1943. However, he will always be remembered for his pivotal role in the mechanical renaissance and for crafting the distinctive design language of Chronoswiss. Let’s see how his spirit lives in the new Chronoswiss Opus chronograph versions.

The new edition of Opus Chronograph arrives in two distinct references, each featuring a Grade 5 titanium case measuring 41mm in diameter and 14.8mm in height. With a 100m water-resistant design constructed from 23 pieces, the case showcases a blend of brushed and polished surfaces and signature Chronoswiss elements – an oversized onion crown and knurled edges on both sides. The top part of the chronograph pushers feature motifs that complement the crown’s style, while exposed screws secure the strap using the patented Autobloc system on the shortened lugs for enhanced comfort. A sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating protects the dial, allowing an uninterrupted view of its openworked structure and indications. The Opus cleverly addresses the legibility challenge common in skeletonised timepieces by colouring many movement parts on the dial side in black.

Available with dark blue or green, CVD-coated dials with a matte finish, the Opus Titanium Chronograph adds colour to the outer minute track and four sub-dials. For the analogue date, use the sub-dial at 3 o’clock, at 6 for the 12-hour counter, at 9 for the small seconds and at noon for the 30-minute counter. The rhodium-plated Breguet-style hour and minute hands with Super-LumiNova inlays complement the overall design. The Chronoswiss name and calibre 741S Atelier Lucerne mentions adorn the extensions of the minute ring.

The Chronoswiss automatic calibre C.741S powering the Opus series is a seriously modified ETA Valjoux 7750 with 25 jewels, operating at 28,800vph, and a 46-hour power reserve. The skeletonised bridges and base plate in galvanic black with perlage, along with the CVD-plated openworked blue (or grey for the green dial version) rotor featuring Côtes de Genève contribute to the beauty of this timepiece.

The new Chronoswiss Opus Titanium Chronograph is worn on a textile Cordura strap, blue or desert camouflage, depending on the reference, and closed with a folding clasp. The price is CHF 13,900; for more information, please visit www.chronoswiss.com.