A few years ago I had the great fortune to visit La Chaux-de-Fonds, in Switzerland. The trip was a last-minute decision and coincided with Baselworld. Originally, I was supposed to be meeting Jonatan Gil (owner of Dubey & Schaldenbrand) at the show but because of prior commitments, he couldn’t make it. Whilst I was in this picturesque town Jonatan showed me around his father’s factory that was located in a beautiful heritage building. This gave me a unique insight into traditional watchmaking that could only be appreciated first hand. Another exclusive brand that manufactures its timepieces in this region is Cuervo y Sobrinos.
A few weeks ago I updated and republished my review of Historiador Tradición which commemorates the companies the 135th Anniversary. I was so impressed with this watch that I included it in my recently published book entitled ‘Independent Watchmakers’. I the interim the company management structure has changed and is now under the helm of • Massimo Rossi. He suggested I contacted Jeremy Degryse, who is now in charge of marketing. After numerous in-depth conversations, Jeremy kindly sent me a Pirata Chronograph for review purposes.
Normally I gravitate towards large contemporary style watches that are worn with jeans and casual shirts. However, it is nice to have a selection of dress style pieces for special occasions. The Pirata Chrono fits in that category and is one of Cuervo y Sobrinos more exclusive models in this collection (with the exception of the luxurious Tourbillon). It is also one of their largest timepieces with a modular 316L stainless case measuring 45mm x 15.5mm and that’s why it personally appealed to me. Certainly, I would be happy to sport this magnificent timepiece at a dinner dance or private formal function.
Aesthetically the Pirata Chrono is designed to make a bold statement and has many notable characteristics. I love the matte black dial with contrasting laser etched silver bold numerals and decorative crest. Other fine details include skeletonised satin-finished hour/minute hands, sapphire crystal lens, dome-shaped crown and chronograph pushers. At the heart of the watch is a modified Swiss made Valjoux 7750 self-winding movement, which is visible through the exhibition case back. This mechanism comprises 25-jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. Functionally the watch features hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph facility and date/date indication. The timepiece is also water-resistant to a depth of 50-metres and has a power reserve of 42-hours.
As a perfect finishing touch the Pirata Chrono is presented on a handmade Ostrich leather strap with matching stainless steel engraved (CyS emblem) folding buckle. For more information about the company follow this link
