Nivada Grenchen Chronomaster Full Black

Stealth and Style

Words by: Hourstriker Staff
January 14, 2025
Nivada Grenchen, a name that resonates with watch aficionados, has once again captured the attention of the horological world with its latest creation: the Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Full Black. This isn't just another watch release; it's a bold statement, a fusion of historical significance and contemporary design. With its limited production run of only 50 pieces, this timepiece stands as a testament to Nivada Grenchen's commitment to crafting exceptional watches that push the boundaries of style and functionality. It's designed for those who seek a blend of heritage and modernity, a timepiece that tells a story while offering cutting-edge features. The watch isn't just a tool to tell time; it's a companion for adventures, embodying the spirit of exploration and the thrill of discovery.



Before we dive into the specifics of the Chronomaster Full Black, it's worth taking a moment to appreciate the legacy of Nivada Grenchen. The brand, established in 1926 in Grenchen, Switzerland, has a rich history of producing innovative timepieces. Throughout the mid-20th century, Nivada Grenchen became synonymous with robust and reliable watches, particularly favored by explorers, divers, and professionals who demanded precision under pressure. The original Chronomaster, launched in 1963, was a groundbreaking model. It was designed to be a versatile chronograph suitable for divers, aviators, and anyone in between. With a 200-meter water resistance, a tachymeter scale, and distinctive broad arrow hands, the Chronomaster quickly gained a reputation as a highly functional and reliable tool watch. This model solidified Nivada Grenchen's place in the world of horology, and it remains a highly sought-after piece among collectors today.

Courtesy of Nivida Grenchen


The Chronomaster collection was revived in 2018 under the stewardship of Guillaume Laidet, who breathed new life into the brand while staying true to its heritage. The reintroduction of the Chronomaster series was met with enthusiasm, as it combined the iconic design elements of the original with modern materials and manufacturing techniques. The Chronomaster Full Black is a continuation of this revival, showcasing the brand's ability to innovate while respecting its storied past. It represents a perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary flair, appealing to both seasoned collectors and a new generation of watch enthusiasts.



The Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Full Black is a striking timepiece. The first thing that catches your eye is the watch's all-black aesthetic. The 38mm case is crafted from 316L stainless steel and coated with a glossy black DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish. This not only gives the watch a sleek, stealthy appearance but also provides exceptional durability and scratch resistance. The case is finished to a brilliant sheen that catches the light and gives the watch a sophisticated look. The DLC coating is incredibly tough, making it ideal for a watch designed to withstand the rigors of daily wear and adventurous pursuits. The matte black dial serves as a perfect backdrop for the luminous white Luminova indices. These indices are generously applied, ensuring excellent legibility even in low-light conditions. The contrast between the black dial and white markers is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, making it easy to read the time at a glance. The red "Yachting Timer" subdial at 3 o'clock adds a vibrant pop of color and a sporty touch, paying homage to Nivada Grenchen's maritime heritage. This detail is not just for show; it's a functional element that can be used for timing regattas or any other timed event, reflecting the watch's versatility. The polished and brushed finishing on the case adds depth and sophistication, creating a dynamic interplay of light and shadow.

Courtesy of Nivida Grenchen


When you first lay eyes on the Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Full Black, its presence is undeniable. The glossy black DLC finish on the 38mm case gives it a sleek and modern appearance, while the polished and brushed surfaces create a captivating interplay of light. The matte black dial is the perfect canvas for the luminous white Luminova indices, which glow brightly in low-light conditions. The red "Yachting Timer" subdial at 3 o’clock provides a striking contrast, adding a touch of sportiness and functionality. Overall, the watch exudes a sense of sophistication and purpose. The "beads of rice" bracelet, with its intricate links, looks particularly stunning and complements the overall design beautifully. It’s a watch that would make any collector proud to wear.



At the core of the Chronomaster Full Black lies the Sellita SW510 BH B automatic movement. This Swiss-made caliber is renowned for its reliability and accuracy. The SW510 BH B is a self-winding movement with chronograph functionality, featuring hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o'clock, a 60-second counter in the center, and a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz) and boasts a substantial power reserve of approximately 62 hours. The movement is equipped with 27 jewels, which help reduce friction and wear, ensuring smooth operation and longevity. This robust movement is a testament to Nivada Grenchen's commitment to quality and precision. It's a workhorse caliber that can handle the demands of everyday wear and more adventurous activities. The inclusion of a chronograph function adds to the watch's versatility, making it suitable for timing events, measuring elapsed time, and various other practical applications.

Courtesy of Nivida Grenchen


The Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Full Black is packed with impressive technical specifications that underscore its high-performance nature. The case, measuring 38mm in diameter and 15.25mm in thickness, is crafted from 316L stainless steel, known for its corrosion resistance and durability. The case is coated with a shiny black DLC finish, enhancing its scratch resistance and giving it a distinctive appearance. The case back is made from 316L steel in a silver color, providing a subtle contrast to the black case. The watch features a double-domed sapphire crystal, which is incredibly scratch-resistant and offers excellent clarity. The sapphire crystal is treated with an anti-reflective coating, further improving legibility by reducing glare. With a water resistance rating of 10 ATM (approximately 100 meters), the Chronomaster Full Black is suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-related activities.



The dial of the Chronomaster Full Black is designed with both form and function in mind. The matte black surface provides a clean, uncluttered backdrop for the luminous white Luminova indices. These indices are generously applied, ensuring that the watch remains legible in all lighting conditions. The hands are also coated with Luminova, further enhancing visibility. The red "Yachting Timer" subdial at 3 o'clock is a standout feature, adding a splash of color and a sporty element to the dial. This subdial is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, allowing for precise timing of events. The dial layout is well-balanced and intuitive, with the small seconds subdial at 9 o'clock and the 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock.

Courtesy of Nivida Grenchen


One of the standout features of the Chronomaster Full Black is its interchangeable strap system. The watch comes with three strap options: a beads of rice bracelet, a black rubber tropic strap, and a black leather strap with white stitching. The beads of rice bracelet is made from stainless steel and features a polished finish that complements the glossy black case. It's a classic design that adds a touch of elegance to the watch. The black rubber tropic strap is perfect for those who prefer a sportier look. It's comfortable, durable, and water-resistant, making it ideal for active use. The black leather strap with white stitching offers a more refined option. It's made from high-quality leather and features a secure clasp, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit.



The Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Full Black is a meticulously crafted timepiece that combines historical significance with modern design and functionality. Its all-black aesthetic, coupled with the vibrant red "Yachting Timer," creates a visually striking watch that is sure to turn heads. The use of high-quality materials, such as 316L stainless steel and a glossy black DLC coating, ensures durability and longevity. The Sellita SW510 BH B automatic movement provides reliable and accurate timekeeping, while the interchangeable strap system offers versatility to suit any occasion.

Courtesy of Nivida Grenchen


With only 50 pieces available worldwide, the Chronomaster Full Black is a truly exclusive timepiece. This limited production run adds to the watch's desirability and makes it a coveted item for collectors. Each watch is individually numbered, further emphasizing its uniqueness. The limited edition status also underscores Nivada Grenchen's commitment to creating special, high-quality watches that stand out from the crowd.



The Chronomaster Aviator Sea Diver Full Black is priced at $2,395.00, exclusive of taxes and duties. Given its limited production run, high-quality materials, and impressive technical specifications, this price represents excellent value for a watch of this caliber. The watch is available for purchase directly from Nivada Grenchen's website and select authorized retailers. Due to its limited availability, it is advisable to act quickly to secure one of these exceptional timepieces.



Case: 38mm diameter, 15.25mm thickness, 316L stainless steel. Glossy black DLC finish, 316L steel silver color caseback. 20mm lug width, 10 ATM water resistance. Double domed sapphire crystal.



Movement: Sellita SW510 BH b, self-winding chronograph. Hours, minutes, small seconds at 9 o'clock, 60-second counter in the center, 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock. 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), 62-hour power reserve, 27 jewels.



Dial: Matte black color. Cream color luminous indexes.



Strap: Beads of Rice bracelet, black rubber tropic, black leather with white stitching. 20x16mm width.



Price: $2,395.00 (exclusive of taxes and duties)



Reference Number: 85015M19LC



Notes: Limited edition of 50 pieces. Features a red "Yachting Timer" function at 3 o’clock.
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