On The Pace

Chronographs are complex, but buying one should not be. We break down the essentials one should consider before pulling the trigger

- Asaph Low

Following our inaugural complication buying guide in the previous issue (the calendar complication), we train our sights on what is arguably the most desirable of all complications, at every level: the chronograph. By all means, do not just take our word for it. According to the Federation of Swiss Watchmaking, it is one of the two top-selling complications in all Swiss watch exports.

The chronograph has achieved this level of popularity for good reason. The complication is highly functional, even for daily use. Secondly, the designs of chronograph wristwatches are aesthetically pleasing. Finally, the pedigree of the complication is attractive, given the many events chronographs were associated with. These days, it is mainly brands that are tied in with events, rather than individual models.

Historically, the chronograph was heavily linked with motorsports, thanks to Rolex and Heuer developing the complication, and those two brands’ involvement with the sport. This saw the birth of icons such as the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona and TAG Heuer Monaco (as well as our cover stars, the TAG Heuer Carrera anniversary models). After all, it is the absolute truth of the stopwatch that tells you whether you have done a good job at the races.

The space race too played a prominent role, allowing one brand to overtake all others in high-speed stakes. Although the Omega Speedmaster Professional was made for the racetrack, it came into its own in the US space program. Heck, it is still shooting for the stars now. The historical feats of NASA astronauts and stories of Omega’s mission-saving moments catapulted not only the brand but the chronograph complication into (literal) stardom.

STOP AND RESET