Rebirth of the Chrono?

It's on rare occasions that I am happy about a new trend or fashion. Chronos have not done it for me for quite some time now. Boooring as they are... most of them are either Zenith "El Primero", Valjoux "7750" or variations of them, yawn... With an obstructed view by the rotor automatic chronos are just uninteresting to look at. Deplorable is the interest that the Lemania "5100" has awoken once it has been ceased from production. After the topic; "You'll miss me when I'm gone..." the 5100 has been around for almost 3 decades, why didn't anybody take the time too look at it then?

Today the chrono is being about to be rediscovered, again.

Manual wound chronos have always been one of the most beautiful movements to look at. Unfortunately for them (and for us) with the arrival of the automatic movements they fell from grace. Until now, that is. Several "Nouvelle Lemania" movements (amongst others) have started to make their way back into the spotlight. Automatic chronos pale in comparison tho the manuals when looking at these movements. Seriously, you just can't stop looking at it! Panerai have included the "1872" in several models, some of them quite spectacular like the "Wempe 125 Anniversary". Even Patek in their 5070 have a Lemania ticking away... Oddly enough, it is one of their most heavily backordered watch. Yet the "crown" of manual chronos is heavily disputed between the Lange "Double-Split" and the Richard Mille "RM004 v2". Both radically different yet hypnotizing in every aspect, undoubtedly the two contenders to the title.





For those whose wallet can't take anymore strain, yes there is even one for you! The SINN H2, same 1872 and finish as the Panerai yet a fourth of the price. Limited to 220 units it will not be around for long.

I hope that the industry re-floats the "mono-pusher" as well. If they do... chrono heaven.