In the realm of horology, where timepieces often scream for attention with flamboyant designs and intricate complications, there exists a brand that has carved a niche for itself by embracing a different philosophy: understated elegance with a motorsport soul. That brand is Autodromo, and their latest creation, the "Racing Team" chronograph, is a testament to their commitment to this philosophy.
Before we delve into the specifics of the Racing Team chronograph, it's essential to understand the brand behind it. Autodromo, founded by Bradley Price, is a watchmaker that draws inspiration from the golden age of motorsports. Their watches are not mere timekeeping devices; they are tributes to the iconic cars, drivers, and races that have shaped the history of automotive racing.
Courtesy of Autodromo
From the retro-futuristic designs of the Group B rally cars to the sleek lines of vintage racing prototypes, Autodromo's timepieces capture the spirit of these machines in a way that resonates with both watch enthusiasts and car aficionados alike. Their watches are not just about aesthetics; they are about capturing the essence of a bygone era when racing was raw, visceral, and full of passion.
The Racing Team chronograph, as its name suggests, is a watch designed for those who appreciate the thrill of the race but prefer to express their passion subtly. It's a watch that doesn't need to shout to be noticed; it exudes a quiet confidence that speaks volumes about its wearer's discerning taste.
At first glance, the Racing Team chronograph might seem deceptively simple. Its matte gray stainless steel case, measuring a versatile 40mm in diameter, is devoid of any unnecessary embellishments. The bezel is clean and uncluttered, without the usual tachymeter scale found on many chronographs. The dial, a deep black with a subtle vertical brushed finish, is equally minimalist, with no numerals or indices to distract from its pure form.
But it's in this simplicity that the Racing Team chronograph truly shines. Its design is a masterclass in restraint, a testament to the idea that less is often more. It's a watch that doesn't need to rely on flashy gimmicks or over-the-top complications to make a statement. Its understated elegance is its most powerful asset.
Courtesy of Autodromo
The Racing Team chronograph's design language is heavily influenced by the "de-branded" tobacco advertising liveries of the 1990s. These liveries, often seen on racing cars during that era, were characterized by their minimalist aesthetics and lack of overt branding. The Racing Team chronograph pays homage to this design philosophy by eschewing any obvious
Autodromo branding on its dial or caseback.
The only hint of the watch's origins is the iconic Autodromo "A-D" mark at the 12 o'clock position. This subtle detail is a nod to the brand's heritage, a secret handshake between the watch and its wearer. It's a reminder that this watch is not just a fashion accessory; it's a piece of automotive history on your wrist.
The Racing Team chronograph's monochromatic color scheme further reinforces its minimalist aesthetic. The matte gray case and black dial create a stark contrast that is both visually striking and surprisingly versatile. This watch can easily transition from the racetrack to the boardroom without missing a beat.
The Racing Team chronograph is not just a watch; it's a collector's item. Limited to just 165 pieces, it's a timepiece that is sure to appreciate in value over time. Its exclusivity, combined with its understated elegance and motorsport heritage, makes it a highly sought-after piece for watch enthusiasts and car aficionados alike.
But the Racing Team chronograph is more than just a collector's item; it's a watch that is meant to be worn and enjoyed. Its comfortable dimensions, reliable movement, and water resistance make it a practical choice for everyday wear. Whether you're behind the wheel of a sports car or simply going about your daily routine, the Racing Team chronograph is a watch that will always be up to the task.
Courtesy of Autodromo
The Racing Team Chronograph is powered by a
Seiko VK63 Meca-Quartz movement, a hybrid engine that combines the best of both quartz and mechanical worlds. While quartz movements are known for their accuracy and reliability, they often lack the tactile feedback and visual charm of their mechanical counterparts. The VK63, however, addresses this by incorporating a mechanical module for the chronograph functions, providing a satisfying "click" and a smooth sweep of the chronograph seconds hand.
This hybrid movement is a testament to Autodromo's commitment to innovation and practicality. It offers the precision of quartz timekeeping with the added excitement of a mechanical chronograph, making it a reliable and engaging companion for everyday wear.
The Racing Team Chronograph's dial is a study in minimalist design. Its matte black surface is devoid of any unnecessary embellishments, allowing the chronograph sub-dials and hands to take center stage. The sub-dials, arranged in a tri-compax layout, are subtly recessed into the dial, adding depth and visual interest to the otherwise clean design.
The hands, rendered in a contrasting white, are sleek and legible, ensuring easy reading of the time and chronograph functions. The chronograph seconds hand, with its distinctive red tip, adds a touch of sportiness to the dial, echoing the adrenaline rush of a race day.
The absence of numerals on the dial is a deliberate design choice, further emphasizing the watch's minimalist aesthetic. The only markings are the Autodromo "A-D" logo at 12 o'clock and the minute track encircling the dial. This minimalist approach ensures that the dial remains uncluttered and easy to read, even in the heat of the moment.
Courtesy of Autodromo
The Racing Team Chronograph's case, measuring a versatile 40mm in diameter, is crafted from brushed stainless steel, giving it a rugged yet refined look. The case is designed to be comfortable on the wrist, with a lug-to-lug distance of 43mm that ensures a good fit for a wide range of wrist sizes.
The chronograph pushers, located at 2 and 4 o'clock, are well-proportioned and easy to operate, providing a tactile experience that is both satisfying and functional. The crown, positioned at 3 o'clock, is knurled for easy gripping, even with gloves on.
The caseback, while devoid of any exhibition window, is adorned with a subtle engraving of the Racing Team logo, a reminder of the watch's motorsport heritage. The caseback also bears the watch's limited edition number, further emphasizing its exclusivity.
The Racing Team Chronograph's dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, a material renowned for its scratch resistance and clarity. The crystal is also treated with an anti-reflective (AR) coating, which reduces glare and enhances legibility, especially in bright sunlight.
The AR coating is a subtle yet important detail that demonstrates Autodromo's attention to detail and commitment to providing a premium experience. It ensures that the dial remains clear and easy to read, even in challenging lighting conditions.
The Racing Team Chronograph comes with a black leather rally strap, a nod to the watch's motorsport roots. The strap is supple and comfortable, conforming to the wrist for a secure and enjoyable wearing experience. It features white contrast stitching and a stainless steel buckle, adding a touch of refinement to the overall design.
Courtesy of Autodromo
For those who prefer a different look, the watch's 20mm lug width allows for easy strap changes, opening up a world of customization possibilities. Whether you prefer a NATO strap, a metal bracelet, or a different type of leather strap, the Racing Team Chronograph can be tailored to your personal style.
The Autodromo Racing Team Chronograph is more than just a watch; it's a statement piece that embodies the spirit of motorsport. Its minimalist design, reliable movement, and comfortable dimensions make it a versatile companion for any occasion. Whether you're a watch enthusiast, a car aficionado, or simply someone who appreciates understated elegance, the Racing Team Chronograph is a watch that is sure to exceed your expectations.