The Sun Never Sets: Movado Datron Watch

By Ariel Adams January 17, 2011

When Movado purchased the rights to the “Museum Dial” clock designed by Nathan George Horwitt in 1947, it changed the face of the brand forever (no pun intended). By the 1980s Movado was more or less primarily known for the Museum Watch, almost exclusively. It was not until a few years ago that Movado wished to break the popular perception that Movado only offered the Museum Watch and nothing else.

While the Museum watches were and are still very successful, Movado has a rich history of good looking watches — not to mention some very impressive contemporary designs. An interesting collection of “re-released” watches that contain influence from the past as well as inspiration from today is the Datron collection.

The original Datron watches date back to the 1970s, being sporty chronograph timepieces. The Datron is back as a sport chronograph watch, but also offered in more luxurious gold models. They also have a bit of Museum Watch in them. So connected to the Movado spirit is the Museum Watch, that the brand sees no reason why it should separate itself from the popular minimalist design. The Museum Watch was designed to be an almost blank dial with a single indicator on the top of the dial mean to represent the sun. It also represented noon, when the sun would be at its apex in the sky. That ubiquitous Movado 12 o’clock dot shows up again in the new Datron – the sun really never sets for the Museum Watch.

On the Datron dial the “sun” serves as the date indicator window. Aside from this distinctive design feature, this watch is a handsome and classic in execution. The case is 40mm wide and tonneau shaped, being offered here in 61.35 grams of 18-karat rose gold (though steel versions are available as well). Movado currently offers about six versions of the Datron Chronograph in gold — each having a different dial color combination or strap. The two main styles have anthracite dials with silver subsidiary dials, or those colors juxtaposed. Unlike the original Datron models, these contemporary models have subdials that playfully intersect with one another. The hands and applied hour markers are applied, and enhanced with SuperLumiNova luminant. While highly refined, the case style has an assuredly chunky strength to it and has an anti-reflective coated sapphire crystal.

For an even higher-end look, Movado will offer some Datron models with a mother-of-pearl dial and diamond hour markers. I further love that Movado offers some Datron pieces with ostrich straps (in other chestnut or medium brown tones), a type of leather with a texture that matches the look of the pieces nicely. An alligator strap is also available (in black or white), or a steel bracelet for the steel models. Inside the Datron Chronograph is a Swiss ETA 2894-2 automatic movement. Those looking for a smaller, simpler Movado watch will also be able to find a 38-mm wide version of the Datron with a Swiss ETA three-hand automatic movement.

While not a revolutionary design, the Datron is polished in its looks, offering a comfortable, high-quality timepiece suitable for daily wear. It will be especially attractive to those people interested in wearing a modern version of a classic look. Most 18-karat rose gold Datron Chronograph watches have a price of $9,900. www.movado.com or 1.888.4MOVADO.