Baselworld 2015 Preview: Clerc Hydroscaph GMT Power-Reserve Chronometer


Clerc Hydroscaph GMT Power Reserve Chronometer_thumb 150This year at Baselworld, Clerc is introducing a new addition to its dive-focused Hydroscaph collection. The Clerc Hydroscaph GMT Power-Reserve Chronometer uses a recognizable Hydroscaph case but with a few useful new features. Let’s take a look at what it offers.

It’s important for a divers’ watch to balance its set of crucial functions alongside legibility. The wearer needs to be able to take a reading off of the dial (and bezel) at a glance. In terms of design, Clerc sets itself a decent challenge by incorporating the power-reserve indicator and a 24-hour GMT hand onto the display in addition to basic time- and date-telling duties. The power reserve is shown in a small, neat scale between 11 and 1 o’clock, using the dial’s accent color (yellow on the model shown here).

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The date aperture clips off the large stylized hour numeral at 3 o’clock. Pride of place is given to the 24-hour window, which fills the bottom quarter of the dial. Ample luminous material on the hour and minutes hands, the hour indexes, and the bezel make the watch very readable in all light conditions.

Clerc Hydroscaph GMT Power Reserve Chronometer - night view 560

The GMT Power-Reserve Chronometer uses Clerc’s C610 caliber. It’s an automatic movement that beats at 28,800 vph. It has 31 jewels and a standard power reserve of 42 hours. There is an exhibition caseback so you can see the movement at work. True to its name, the watch is a full-fledged chronometer, having been certified by COSC.

But the most notable features of the Hydroscaph are on its case. This is a big watch: although the diameter of the case is 43.8 mm, it ends up at 48 mm with its lateral reinforcements. In total, the case itself has 83 components. There is a helium release valve, seen on the case-side at 8 o’clock. The watch is water resistant to 800 meters.

Clerc Hydroscaph GMT Power Reserve Chronometer_day 560

The diving bezel is designed with Clerc styling, truncated to remove the edges that would stick up on a flat bezel. But it doesn’t turn manually. The dedicated crown at 10 o’clock keeps the bezel safely in its desired position; in order to rotate it, you have to release a flap on the bezel crown, then turn that bezel to the timing position you want.

The Hydroscaph GMT Power-Reserve Chronometer comes in three case versions: in stainless steel, in black DLC-coated stainless steel, and in rose gold with black DLC-coated steel. Dial variations are available in white, black, brown or midnight blue. It comes on a rubber strap with a folding clasp.

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  1. Viorel Banu

    It is a beautiful watch. I want to know what is the price and can I have one. Thanks.

    Reply
  2. MrTissot

    This is a beautifully designed watch with a unique and futuristic look. I love the way Clerc has placed the date at the 3 o’clock position. It has a nicely integrated look. The Power Reserve Indicator is a nice touch and well placed for a well balanced look.

    Reply
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