Brave, Bold, With Vintage Flair – The Graham Chronofighter Vintage GMT

The Graham Chronofighter Vintage GMT is testament to a bold and technical approach to design, directly inspired by historical military timepieces. On the left-hand side of the case its signature lever allows the wearer to start and stop the chronograph with ease using the thumb – the fastest of all fingers – even when they’re wearing thick aviator gloves.

The brand’s emblematic model celebrated its 15^th anniversary in 2016 and remains non-conformist in many respects. Its oversized 47 mm case, complete with unique (and slightly) extravagant chronograph lever is instantly recognizable. The early success of the Chronofighter led to the unveiling ofthe first Chronofighter GMT a few years later, in 2004 / 2005. In 2016 the Chronofighter ‘Vintage’ collection made its debut, and now Graham is adding another model to the line-up, targeted at regular jet-setters like you and I.

Like the Chronofighter “Vintage’ introduced last year, the case of the Chronofighter GMT Vintage scaled down to 44mm, making it a bit more restrained and wearable than its predecessors (relatively speaking, of course). It features the tastefully redesigned start-stop trigger seen on other ‘Vintage’ models in the collection, a knurled onion crown and a mushroom-shaped reset pusher, subtle design elements that all work together to really re-enforce the classic pilot watch design. Its unidirectional rotating GMT bezel is made of ceramic and features 24 positions.

The slightly domed sapphire crystal underlines the character of the watch. The bi-compax dial offers excellent readability. The sun-brushed finish with radial gradient captures a wide range of shades and is indeed magnificent. It comes in different colors – green, brown, black or blue dial with luminescent figures and indexes and cool red accents.

The Chronofighter Vintage GMT is built around the caliber G1733, an automatic chronograph movement with large date and second time zone. This reliable work horse is a modified Valjoux 7750 operating at 4Hz with about 2 days of power reserve. Its traditional finishing (Geneva stripes, blued screws) are visible at the rear of the watch.

A straight-cut, calfskin leather strap coordinated with the dial color and complete with off-white hand-stitching provides the finishing touch. It is closed with a steel pin buckle.

The Graham Chronofighter Vintage GMT is a distinctive, stylish stopwatch. Naturally, its unconventional design may not be to everyone’s taste. I have always been a fan of the model and I believe the toned-down ‘Vintage’ versions are a smart evolution. These wear much better and are more elegant while still retaining the unmistakable character of their wilder siblings. The functionality of the chronograph trigger remains impressive while simultaneously protecting the crown. The GMT indication is a practical addition. The legibility of the dial with its large date is perfect. Last but not least, the fact that its price point is lower than the previous Chronofighter GMT might give you the necessary excuse you need to pull the trigger…

Technical specifications – Graham Chronofighter Vintage GMT

• Case: 44 mm – steel with unidirectional rotating bezel in ceramic – domed sapphire crystal with antireflective coating – sapphire case back – water resistant to 100m
• Movement: Calibre G1733 (modified Valjoux 7750) – mechanical with automatic winding – 48h power reserve – 28,800 vibrations/h – 28 jewels – hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph, GMT, large date.
• Strap:  hand-sewn calf leather with steel pin buckle
• Retail price : 6,950 CHF