Glashütte Original's SeaQ Chronograph 'Silver Screen' is a bold statement piece that will make you question your assumptions. This watch draws inspiration from an unexpected source: the world of cinema, specifically the silver screens of yesteryear.
But here's the twist: Glashütte Original, renowned for its elegant dress watches, has a lesser-known history in dive watchmaking. During the Cold War, the brand, then known as GUB, crafted dive watches for both civilians and the East German military. Fast forward to today, and the SeaQ Chronograph pays homage to this heritage while pushing boundaries.
Measuring 43.2mm in diameter and 16.95mm thick, this watch is a substantial presence on the wrist, befitting its 300-meter water resistance. Interestingly, its chrono pushers aren't screw-down, a surprising feature for a diving chronograph of this caliber. Certified to ISO 6425 and DIN 8306 standards, it's a true diver's companion.
The case design is a blend of utility and charm, with a slab-like form and blocky lugs reminiscent of the vintage GUB Spezimatic Type RP TS 200. A polished bevel adds a touch of sophistication, contrasting the brushed surfaces. The oversized crown and grippy bezel with a black ceramic insert ensure functionality, while the exceptionally domed crystal enhances its vintage appeal.
Now, the dial is where things get intriguing. What appears to be a simple panda dial reveals a hidden depth. Its matte galvanised silver finish is inspired by the optical effect of silver-painted cinema screens, reducing light dispersion and boosting legibility—a crucial feature for a tool watch destined for the ocean's depths. The oversized hands and indices are generously coated in Super-LumiNova, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions.
Glashütte Original's signature Panorama Date complication takes center stage at 6 o'clock, maintaining the panda theme with its white-on-black display. The watch is offered with three strap options: a steel bracelet, a black Tropic-style rubber strap, or a vibrant orange fabric strap that unexpectedly complements the monochromatic dial. Both the rubber and fabric straps offer pin buckle or folding clasp options.
Powering the SeaQ Chronograph is the in-house Calibre 37-23, an automatic flyback chronograph movement with a 70-hour power reserve and a silicon balance spring. This movement is a beauty, showcasing Glashütte's renowned finishing techniques, including a striped three-quarter plate, beveled and polished edges, blued screws, and a 21k gold rotor.
While diving chronographs may not be everyone's cup of tea, this Glashütte Original is a standout. With its impressive water resistance, in-house flyback chronograph, and unique connection to cinema, it's a watch that demands attention. Imagine a rugged action hero wearing this timepiece, ready to take on villains and still look stylish for dinner.
The SeaQ Chronograph 'Silver Screen' is now available at authorized Glashütte Original dealers, priced at A$22,550 for the fabric or rubber strap with a pin buckle, A$23,000 with a folding clasp, and A$24,350 for the steel bracelet version.
And here's where opinions might clash: Is the SeaQ Chronograph 'Silver Screen' a harmonious blend of dive watch functionality and cinematic flair, or does it fall short in either aspect? Do you think it successfully marries the worlds of diving and cinema, or does it leave you feeling like something's missing? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
