New Wyler Genève Code-R chronograph with full black dial

10-03-09

The mysterious dial of the full-black Wyler Genève Code-R chronograph has a discreet new look that softens the ever-present burden of time on our daily lives. The velours texture of matt black combines perfectly with the brushed titanium case in a watch brimming with understatement.

Well over 30 years ago, a difference of only one hundredth of a second separated the winner of the 1971 Italian Grand Prix, Peter Gethin (BRM) from second-placed Ronnie Peterson (March-Ford). Today, motorsport times are even measured in the thousandths of a second. The mechanical chronograph therefore seems an anachronism in this ultra-fast, ultra-precise world of motorsport.

In spite of this, watches have long been associated with automobile. Like cars, their bodywork and engines set themselves apart. A precision mechanical chronograph is still the best timepiece for anyone who shares a passion for racing, all the more so if it uses the same high-tech materials found in the parts bins of top-flight motorsport. Wyler Genève timepieces are closely linked with this world through their use of lightweight yet robust materials such as the titanium for the outer case and carbon-fibre resin for its inner frame. Pedal-shaped chronograph pushers and a rubber-coated crown resembling a car tyre add to the automobile allure.

By day, the dark, tone-on-tone dial of this mysterious Wyler Genève chronograph barely hints at its precision mechanical function. Its dark aspect instead further emphasises the distinctive Wyler Genève case. By night, the black SuperLuminova on the hands and minute track numerals fires up to reveal only the passing hours and minutes and focus the wearer's attention on the watch's original purpose.

The Wyler Genève chronograph is driven by one of the most reliable Swiss automatic chronograph movements and has a power reserve of 42 hours. The personalised oscillating mass that generates power for the watch by capturing the movements of its wearer offers further parallels with motorsport: its design in drilled blackened heavy metal resembles that of the latest ventilated ceramic disc brakes. The chronograph movement and its oscillating mass are both visible behind a transparent sapphire crystal window in the case back. It is fitted as standard with a black rubber bracelet with pushbutton-operated foldover clasp in steel and titanium. As with all Wyler Genève models, it comes with a 2-year warranty.