Four Historically Significant Chronographs

   Chronograph is one of the most popular watchmaking complications. The reason may be explained as it adds dynamic elements to the watch. Measuring elapsed time requires a special second hand, a sub-dial to display the hours and minutes, and a button to operate the chronograph function. Mechanical chronographs have left a deep mark in the fields of aviation, racing and space exploration, further enhancing the appeal of this type of watch. There have been various chronographs in history, but the following four models undoubtedly occupy a unique position.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona

   Although Rolex began producing chronographs a long time ago, it was not until 1963 that the brand named it the "Cosmograph Daytona." For decades, Rolex has established close ties with the racing industry, especially Sir Malcolm Campbell. Sir Malcolm Campbell broke the land speed record five times at the Daytona Beach Circuit, and the Daytona watch got its name. The Oyster case, screw-in buttons, pit pattern bezel and clear and easy-to-read dial make this watch a symbol that is instantly recognizable. Although Daytona is a sports watch, Rolex is not worried about adding luxury. In addition to precious metals, there are also gem inlays to choose from, showing the versatility of Daytona chronographs.

Zenith El Primero

   In 1969, Zenith released El Primero, the first automatic chronograph with a frequency of 36,000 beats per hour (5 Hz). Although the chronograph has been around for decades at the time, the automatic itself is a higher pursuit. The El Primero movement is so outstanding that it has even been adopted by other brands. The most famous ones are Rolex and Ebel. Until now, it is still the benchmark of the industry and one of the pillars of Zenith. Over the years, there have been various watches equipped with El Primero movements, but Zenith has always retained the original features. The "pump type" button and the slightly overlapping sub-dial still have not lost their appeal. This color combination is special and beautiful, and its inspiration comes from the previously unknown prototype watch found in Zenith's archives.

Omega Speedmaster

   As the "NASA manned mission designated watch", Omega Speedmaster Chronograph is remembered by the world. Later, Speedmaster also played an important role in all six missions to the moon. It was not only the first watch worn on the moon, but also a key element for the safe return of Apollo 13. The 321 movement is one of the most sought-after antique speedmaster chronograph movements, and it can be called a legend in the legend. In 2019, Omega reproduced the classics. While paying tribute to history, the new timepiece is also an uncompromising modern watch with a polished black ceramic bezel and decorated with white enamel tachymeter scales. The platinum case with black onyx dial and meteorite sub-dial make the new watch even more unique.

Breitling Aviation Timekeeping

   Long before computing equipment was introduced into the aviation field, the Breitling Aviation Chronograph had become a wrist weapon for pilots. Pilots can use the flying slide rule to perform various calculations, including flight time, fuel consumption, climb/descent rates, and so on. On the ground, the Breitling Aviation Chronograph is also very practical and can be used to convert currencies, or to convert between miles and kilometers. Functionality is not the only reason for the popularity of the Breitling Aviation Chronograph. In addition, it is reliable, precise and beautiful. Just like Zenith, Breitling also made a replica timepiece. The new watch faithfully continues the line contours of the previous work, and is even decorated with Breitling's antique logo. For connoisseurs, this is an excellent opportunity to have a brand new chronograph of great historical significance.