Introducing the Chronoswiss Delphis Art Deco

With the Delphis Art Deco, Chronoswiss presents a striking new interpretation of one of its signature complications. First introduced in 1996, the Delphis has long been one of the brand’s most recognizable creations. Its distinctive display— combining a jumping hour with a retrograde minute and small seconds— remains a hallmark of Chronoswiss’ independent spirit. Limited to 150 pieces, the Delphis Art Deco is both a mechanical homage to the Roaring Twenties and a contemporary statement piece.

At the heart of the Delphis Art Deco lies a dial that reflects the structured elegance of the 1920s. The main surface is nickel-plated and laser-engraved, creating a subtle three-dimensional texture that interacts dynamically with light. Its refined grey tone evokes the metallic palette and nuanced contrasts characteristic of Art Deco design. Above this architectural base unfolds the Delphis display: a jumping hour aperture at 12 o’clock, a central retrograde minute hand sweeping across a curved scale occupying half of the dial before snapping back instantaneously, and a continuously running small seconds display at 6 o’clock.

The small seconds counter at 6 o'clock is an artisanal gem: a delicate azure tone, achieved through a proprietary lacquer applied over a manually guilloched surface. Executed in the brand’s Lucerne atelier using traditional machines, the intricate pattern lends depth and vitality beneath crisp, Art Deco-inspired typography. A gold-toned minute track provides a warm counterpoint to the cooler dial, reinforcing the geometric clarity of the overall composition.

Powering the watch is the Chronoswiss manufacture caliber C.6004, an automatic movement running at 28‘800 A/h with a 55-hour power reserve. Visible through the sapphire caseback, the movement reveals its refined traditional finishing. Highlights include a skeletonized tungsten rotor and ruthenium-coated bridges adorned with Geneva stripes, underscoring the watch’s artisanal character.

The Delphis Art Deco is housed in a 42mm case crafted from light-weight Grade 5 titanium, measuring 14.4mm in height and offering water resistance to 10 bar. Fluted case sides add a distinctive architectural touch, while the signature onion-style crown—also an unmistakable hallmark of the Swiss brand—completes the design. Paired with a black nubuck leather strap, the watch is priced at $17,500.

To learn more, visit Chronoswiss, here.