The Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date with in-house calibre 37-02 was launched at Baselworld 2014 and we brought you the news here. This time, we bring you our in-depth hands-on review and some stunning images as we enjoyed this timepiece underwater. The Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date is powered by the newly developed column wheel chronograph movement Glashütte Original Calibre 37-02 and represents a perfect addition to the Seventies collection. The watch is fitted with a perfectly square stainless steel case measuring 40 mm x 40 mm x 13.5 mm and a practical 12-hour chronograph with a very unique display for the chronograph hours in an aperture at 12 o'clock. The Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date is available in three different dial options —blue, silver and anthracite— and with a stainless steel bracelet, a rubber strap or a Louisiana alligator strap. Since we wanted to enjoy the watch in the pool, we decided to go with the rubber strap option and being the watchlifestylers we are, we paired it with this beautiful flower print classic Vilebrequin trunks.
The Case
While to many of you the look of this watch might resemblance the look of the iconic Patek Philippe Nautilus on strap, the finish of the case is far from the level of a Patek Philippe or an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak —the watch with the best satin brushed/highly polished alternating surfaces and with perfectly cut chamfers. The case on the Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date features rectangular pushers for the chronograph —please do not activate them underwater regardless of the 50 meter water resistance on the watch—, a screw-down crown that is somewhat small with relatively poor grip and a date corrector at 10 o'clock on the left caseband. Now, we are not saying this watch is not beautiful, because it is, we are just pointing out the somewhat inferior finishing when compared to other brands, especially with the price tag on this watch.
The Dial
The dial is a different story as it is simply stunning with its sunburst finish. The layout of the dial is perfectly balanced featuring a running seconds register with integrated power reserve indicator aperture at 9 o'clock, 12-hour chrono register via a small aperture at 12, 30-minute chrono register at 3 and the classic panorama date aperture at 6 o'clock.
The Movement
Via the display case back, one can appreciate the newly developed Glashütte Original calibre 37-02. This new movement was entirely developed in-house automatic and combines the positive attributes of a classic column wheel chronograph with the advantages of a simpler, cam system chronograph featuring exceptional features like a central chrono seconds hand, 12-hour chronograph with flyback mechanism and an impressive power reserve of up to 70 hours when fully wound. Additionally, this new calibre features a new oscillation system that has no regulator on the spring for optimum isochronism. The movement features the signature German Glashütte Original swan-neck regulator and 45 jewels.
The Strap
Fitted with a rubber strap with double-folding buckle, the watch is perfectly suited for water activities and a full day at the pool or the beach. The only downside to the clasp, is the fact that one needs to unscrew a very small screw that attaches to the post that goes into the strap to make sizing adjustments. For those that like to let their friends with a different size wrist try on their watches, the screw on the clasp makes it simply impossible and somewhat frustrating.
On the Wrist & Pricing
On the wrist, the watch wears somewhat smaller than its actual size but quite comfortably. The rubber strap is very soft and malleable and makes for a perfect combo if you are one of those watchlifestylers that likes to get their watches wet.
Sticker Price $14,900 on Rubber or Alligator Strap, $16,400 on Stainless Steel Bracelet. For more info on Glashütte Original click here.
