Time has a way of coming full circle. As the dust settles on the show floor of Geneva Watch Days 2024, one name echoes through the halls with unexpected resonance: Favre Leuba. Our storied Swiss brand, absent from the horological spotlight for years, has made a comeback with a collection that’s both a nod to our rich past and a bold step into the future. At the forefront of this revival stands the Sea Sky Chronograph, a timepiece that encapsulates our brand’s ambition to reclaim their place in the pantheon of Swiss watchmaking.
A Stellar Lineage
To appreciate the significance of Favre Leuba’s return, one must first understand our legacy. Founded in 1737 by Abraham Favre, our brand predates the formation of the United States of America! For nearly three centuries, Favre Leuba stood as a beacon of Swiss horological innovation, producing groundbreaking timepieces like the Bivouac (the world’s first mechanical wristwatch equipped with an aneroid barometer) in 1962 and the Bathy (the first mechanical depth gauge) in 1968.
Despite this illustrious history, we, like many traditional watchmakers, fell victim to the Quartz Crisis of the 1970s and 80s. Our brand changed hands several times, and our voice in the industry kept growing faint with each passing year. Now, under the leadership of industry veteran Patrik Hoffmann, Favre Leuba is writing a new chapter. Our ambitious roadmap and robust relaunch plan point to an exceptional transformation in both scope and depth.
At First Glance: The Sea Sky Chronograph
Among the 22 new references unveiled at Geneva Watch Days, the Sea Sky Chronograph stands out as a testament to Favre Leuba’s commitment to blending heritage with modernity. At first glance, our watch exudes a vintage charm that’s unmistakably rooted in the aesthetic of 1970s sports chronographs. Yet, upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that this is no mere reissue.
The Sea Sky Chronograph presents itself in a 40mm stainless steel case, a size that strikes a balance between modern preferences and vintage proportions. The case profile is a mix of brushed and polished surfaces, catching light in a fascinating way. The double-domed sapphire crystal adds a touch of vintage flair while providing the clarity and durability expected of a contemporary timepiece.
A Closer Look: Dial, Case, And Strap
The Sea Sky Chronograph dial is a study in vintage-inspired functionality. Available in black, blue, or sunburst brown, each variant offers a distinct personality while maintaining the watch’s core identity. The three white sub-dials at three, six, and nine o’clock provide excellent contrast, enhancing both aesthetics and legibility. Broad arrow-style hands and vintage-inspired indices further cement the watch’s retro appeal without feeling derivative.
