Chronoswiss Delphis Sub Zero

A Masterclass in Dial Craftsmanship

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
August 1, 2024
The Swiss watchmaking industry is a tapestry woven with threads of tradition, innovation, and an unwavering pursuit of horological excellence. Within this intricate tapestry, Chronoswiss emerges as a distinct and vibrant thread, weaving its own narrative of independent watchmaking. In an era where conformity often reigns supreme, Chronoswiss stands as a beacon of individuality, a testament to the power of passion and the enduring allure of mechanical timepieces.

Courtesy of Chronoswiss


Chronoswiss, a name synonymous with exquisite craftsmanship and a penchant for the unconventional, has consistently defied the norms of watchmaking. Founded in 1983 by Gerd-Rüdiger Lang, the brand's journey is a testament to the spirit of independent watchmaking. Lang's vision was clear: to create timepieces that were not merely functional but also works of art, each bearing the mark of individuality and meticulous craftsmanship. Over the years, Chronoswiss has remained true to this vision, crafting timepieces that are a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.



Central to the Chronoswiss ethos is the celebration of mechanical ingenuity. Each timepiece is a symphony of gears, springs, and levers, meticulously assembled by skilled artisans. The brand's commitment to mechanical watchmaking is evident in its intricate movements, often visible through sapphire crystal casebacks, inviting the wearer to marvel at the intricate dance of time. The Delphis collection, a cornerstone of Chronoswiss's offerings, exemplifies this dedication to mechanical artistry. Introduced in the 1990s, the Delphis quickly garnered acclaim for its innovative design and unique complications. The retrograde minute and jumping hour displays, a departure from the conventional, showcased the brand's willingness to push the boundaries of horological creativity.

Courtesy of Chronoswiss


Now, in a captivating new chapter of the Delphis saga, Chronoswiss unveils the Delphis Sub Zero, a limited-edition masterpiece that pays homage to the icy wilderness. This timepiece, limited to a mere 50 pieces, is a testament to the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Inspired by the frigid beauty of glacial landscapes, the Delphis Sub Zero is a symphony of blue hues, evoking the serene yet powerful essence of ice.



The watch's 42mm stainless steel case, coated with a mesmerizing blue CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) finish, exudes an air of cool sophistication. The matching blue rubber strap seamlessly complements the case, creating a cohesive and visually striking aesthetic. The oversized onion crown, a signature Chronoswiss design element, adds a touch of whimsy to the watch's overall appearance. The caseback, also crafted from sapphire crystal, provides a window into the intricate workings of the C. 6004 movement, a testament to the brand's dedication to mechanical excellence.

Courtesy of Chronoswiss


The dial of the Delphis Sub Zero is a testament to the artistry of guilloché, a traditional engraving technique that creates intricate patterns on metal surfaces. The galvanic silver upper dial, adorned with a mesmerizing hand-guillochéd pattern, shimmers like sunlight reflecting off a frozen lake. The jumping hour window at noon, with its crisp white numerals, contrasts beautifully against the blue backdrop. The arched track for the retrograde minute display, marked with blue ceramic luminous plots, adds a touch of functionality to the watch's aesthetic allure. The small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock, also featuring a hand-guillochéd pattern, completes the dial's harmonious composition.



The beating heart of the Chronoswiss Delphis Sub Zero is the C.6004 movement, a testament to the brand's unwavering pursuit of horological excellence. First introduced in 2023, this movement is the result of a collaborative effort between Chronoswiss and La Joux-Perret, a renowned movement manufacturer with a rich history of crafting high-quality calibers. The C.6004 is not simply a functional component; it's a work of art in its own right. The ruthenium plating, a lustrous finish that adds depth and dimension to the movement's architecture, is a testament to the brand's attention to detail. The tungsten rotor, which winds the mainspring as the wearer moves their wrist, is a testament to the movement's efficiency and reliability. The Côtes de Genève finishing, a pattern of meticulously applied stripes that adorn the bridges and plates, is a testament to the brand's commitment to craftsmanship.



Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the C.6004 movement boasts impressive technical specifications. With 37 jewels, it ensures smooth and precise operation, while the Glucydur balance and Nivarox balance spring contribute to its accuracy and stability. The Incabloc shock protection system safeguards the movement from impacts, ensuring its longevity. With a power reserve of 55 hours, the Delphis Sub Zero can keep ticking even when not worn for a few days. And with a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, the movement delivers a smooth and precise sweep of the hands.

Courtesy of Chronoswiss


This mechanical marvel is housed within a 42mm stainless steel case, a size that strikes the perfect balance between wrist presence and everyday wearability. The 14.5mm thickness adds a sense of substance and heft to the watch, while the 17-part construction speaks to the complexity and attention to detail that went into its design. The blue CVD coating, a process that involves depositing a thin layer of vaporized material onto the surface of the case, adds a unique and captivating hue to the watch's appearance. The polished and brushed finishes create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, adding depth and dimension to the watch's aesthetic.



The oversized onion crown, a signature Chronoswiss design element, adds a touch of whimsy and personality to the watch. The knurling on the crown and caseback not only enhances grip but also adds a tactile dimension to the watch's overall experience. The sapphire crystal on both the front and back of the watch provides a clear view of the dial and movement, respectively. With 100 meters of water resistance, the Delphis Sub Zero is suitable for swimming and snorkeling, making it a versatile companion for both everyday wear and adventurous pursuits.

Courtesy of Chronoswiss


The Chronoswiss Delphis Sub Zero is not just a watch; it's a statement piece that embodies the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and individuality. With a limited production run of only 50 pieces, it is a rare and exclusive timepiece that is sure to be cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike. This timepiece is a testament to the enduring appeal of mechanical watchmaking, a celebration of artistry and engineering. Whether you're a seasoned watch collector or a newcomer to the world of horology, the Delphis Sub Zero is sure to leave a lasting impression. The watch is available at select authorized dealers worldwide, with a retail price of 18,400 EUR.
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