OW Astrochron

The OW Astrochron on a hand-crafted Perlon 'Regatta’ band, ideal for summer recreation.

Woven exclusively for OW using premium quality, lightweight and highly water, saline and oil-resistant braided nylon 'Regatta' band offers a tactile blend of comfort and durability. The striking two-tone pattern echoes the dial colours of the Astrochron and those familiar with the International maritime signal flag system may also recognise the nautical code for ‘J’ (Juliet).

Combined with the Astrochron’s extreme 500M depth rating this summer complement is equal to any challenge, in on or around the ocean.

Whether you’re planning to take on the waves or just enjoy them from the deck of a clubhouse, the OW Astrochron on a Regatta band is perfectly equipped for either.

The OW Astrochron story began in Zürich nearly 60 years ago, amidst history’s most ambitious era of exploration. Engineers, sportsmen, commercial and military divers, pilots and ships officers were also fast to appreciate the value of such a rugged and water-resistant precision timing instrument.

Only a chronograph of outstanding quality would be worthy of continuing the Astrochron legacy today, and we had endeavoured to ensure this new interpretation is equal to the challenge. With a water-resistance of 50 atm (500 m), the new model more than doubles the depth rating of the original and far exceeds Swiss chronograph standard. Other updates include a 360-degree rotating compass bezel and a 20 minute diver’s scale. These additional utilities, combined with a five-minute Regatta counter, extra-thick sapphire crystal and unique four-gasket pusher system, make the new OW Astrochron as proficient on the ocean as it is under and over it.

Inside the brushed 316L stainless steel case is a descendant of the historic Valjoux 72 movement that powered the first Astrochrons. A custom-engraved automatic Valjoux 7753, with an OW machined rotor set onto it, is regulated, adjusted and power-tested in five positions at our workshop in the Swiss Jura, thereby qualifying for the OW Precision rating.

As a final tribute to its forebear, the new chronograph revives the distinctive North Atlantic blue dial of 1968.

Whether you’re exploring a wreck, exploring a theory or just gazing up at the stars and exploring the possibilities, the new OW Astrochron could well be the perfect chronograph.

As has become a new OW tradition, the first 56 Astrochron watches will be offered with numbered crowns.