It always fascinates me how trends can rapidly change in the watch industry. For example in the 1980’s quartz movements were in vogue and this had a serious impact on traditional watchmakers. Many people ask me if there is really a need to own a timepiece when a smart phone can do the job better. It is true that modern devices are exceptionally accurate but in my opinion, don’t offer the recipient the same connection (no pun intended). For that reason mechanical watches are having a renaissance.
A few months ago I featured a superb timepiece from Choisi Suisse called the Heritage Docteurgraph. Not only is the watch comfortable to wear, it also has a Valjoux ETA 7750 automatic chronograph movement. What makes the timepiece more impressive is the suggested retail price of $1,880. Amazingly this is probably one of the brands’ most expensive models. Recently the company approached me again to ask if I would be interested in reviewing one of their entry-level models. This was music to my ears as I am trying to make a concerted effort to feature timepieces at all price points.
For those out there that haven’t heard of Choisi Suisse, they have a history dating back 85 years. As well as manufacturing their own watches they also produced a lot of mechanical components for other brands. Recently the new owners have revatalised the company by introducing a range of new and exciting watches. In my opinion the 1929 GT is one of Choisi Suisse’s most attractive and affordable watches. Dimensionally the timepiece has the same 44mm diameter as the Heritage Docteurgraph and should appeal to a wide variety of buyers. Generally I found the watch felt lightweight and comfortable to wear. Ultimately this is down to the stylish cushion shape case and choice of 316L stainless steel in production. Realistically this timepiece could be worn for any occasion and definitely on a daily basis.
Visually the 1929 GT has a really refined appearance normally found on watches several times the price. What makes the watch so distinctive is the sporty black dial accented with vibrant blue and orange stripes. I love the bold numerals especially the oversized number nine, which also displays the small seconds. Other successful features include the open worked brushed steel hour/minute hands, sapphire crystal lens and ornate crown. Overall the composition has been well considered and perfectly executed.
Beneath the elegant exterior lies a reliable manual winding Unitas ETA 6497-1 caliber. This movement comprises 17-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour. Being really pedantic I wish the watch had a sapphire crystal exhibition case back to display this superb mechanism. Functionally the 1929 GT features hours, minutes and small seconds. The watch also has a power reserve of approximately 40 hours and is water resistant to a depth of 50 metres.
The 1929 GT has a high quality black calf leather strap with matching stainless steel buckle. Priced very competitively at: $930.
For more information visit the company’s website: http://www.choisiwatch.com
