Anders & Co, the Swedish watch brand, has taken an intriguing turn with its latest collection, blending the vintage charm of its AC1 Chronograph with the unique appeal of natural stone dials. This move is a bold statement, challenging the conventional perception of chronographs as sporty, functional timepieces.
The Stone Dial Revolution
What immediately stands out is the use of semi-precious stones as dials. This isn't just a gimmick; it's a strategic move that leverages the current trend of stone dials in the watch industry. Anders & Co has cleverly positioned itself at the forefront of this trend, offering these colorful minerals at remarkably affordable prices.
The brand's decision to incorporate stone dials into chronographs is particularly fascinating. Stone dials have traditionally been associated with dainty dress watches, but we're witnessing a shift. Chronographs and sports watches are now embracing these dressy dials, as evidenced by the Tiger's Eye GMT-Master II and the meteorite dial Daytona from Rolex. This evolution proves the versatility of natural materials and the public's willingness to accept them in diverse watch styles.
A Unique Collection
The new AC1 Chronograph stone dial collection features five naturally occurring stones, each with its own distinct character: white mother of pearl, black onyx, red jasper, turquoise, and bloodstone. This variety ensures that each watch exudes a completely different vibe, catering to a wide range of preferences. Whether you find your favorite or decide to collect them all, the choice is yours.
The bloodstone dial, with its deep green color and red veins, is especially captivating. It offers a unique depth and variety that sets it apart. The new handset, featuring sharp Dauphine hands with a thin strip of lume, adds a modern touch to the watches, enhancing their appeal.
Case and Movement
The case, measuring 38mm in diameter and 11.1mm thick, maintains the same proportions as its predecessor. However, subtle changes have been made to enhance its premium feel and practicality. The lug geometry has been adjusted, and the finishing across the case has been updated, showcasing the brand's attention to detail. The pushers and crown have also been upgraded, resulting in a more premium look and feel.
Inside the watch, we find the Seiko VK64 mecaquartz chronograph movement. This movement, favored by microbrands for its affordability and reliability, offers the tactile feel of a mechanical chronograph without the associated costs. The absence of a running seconds feature, replaced by a 24-hour counter, extends battery life and keeps the dial clean and uncluttered.
Strap and Conclusion
The standard black grained leather strap with a pin buckle provides a minimalist look. However, the 20mm lug width allows for a wide range of strap options from third-party suppliers. A subtle suede strap in a complementary color or a bold contrast could be interesting choices.
In conclusion, the Anders & Co AC1 Chronograph stone dial collection offers a unique blend of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality. While a dressy chronograph may seem unconventional, it's precisely this contradiction that makes it appealing. As long as you're comfortable with a mechaquartz movement, this collection is definitely worth considering for its distinct personality and style.
