Nivada Grenchen Chronoking Mecaquartz Interchangeable Bezel: A Chameleon of Chronographs

Nivada Grenchen has been making waves in the horological world with its faithful and impressive reissues of classic timepieces. Now, they’re taking things a step further with the Chronoking Mecaquartz Interchangeable Bezel, a watch that blends vintage charm with modern versatility. Drawing inspiration from both the iconic Chronoking and the lesser-known COLORAMA VI from the early 1960s, Nivada has introduced a clever interchangeable bezel system that transforms this chronograph into a true watch of many faces.

The Chronoking Mecaquartz ($579) retains the classic DNA of its predecessors, housed in a refined 38mm stainless steel case, devoid of crown guards, and offering a robust 100m of water resistance. The dial is a textured matte black canvas, punctuated by vibrant yellow and orange accents on the markers and hands, lending a distinctly retro racing vibe. A rally-style minute track further enhances this vintage motorsport aesthetic, evoking images of classic trackside timers.

But the real magic lies in the interchangeable bezel system. Nivada Grenchen has developed a unique four-ball locking mechanism that allows for near-instant swaps between no less than ten different bezel options – five tachymeter and five GMT variants. Each bezel boasts its own distinct colour scheme, all inspired by the bold hues of the swinging sixties, ensuring a look for every occasion. This innovative system allows the Chronoking to effortlessly transition from a timing instrument on the track to a dual-time tracker for the globetrotter, or simply a stylish everyday companion.

Powering the Chronoking Mecaquartz is the Time Module VK63A, a Seiko-designed and built mecaquartz caliber. This hybrid movement combines the accuracy of quartz timekeeping with the tactile feel of a mechanical chronograph. It features running seconds, an elapsed minutes counter up to an hour, and 24-hour time display. The Japanese-made movement promises accuracy within plus or minus 20 seconds per month and offers a battery life of approximately three years.

The watch is presented on a black leather racing strap, perfectly complementing the motorsport heritage of the Chronoking. With its 38mm diameter, 46.5mm lug-to-lug, and 13.4mm thickness, the Chronoking Mecaquartz wears comfortably on a variety of wrist sizes. The double-domed sapphire crystal adds a touch of vintage flair while providing superior scratch resistance. Swiss-made and ready to ship at the beginning of February 2025, the Nivada Grenchen Chronoking Mecaquartz is a compelling blend of retro style and modern adaptability, a testament to the brand’s continued commitment to innovation and quality.

Leo Davie