Watch of the Week: Glashütte Original Senator Chronograph Panorama Date

When it comes to watches from Glashütte, the vast majority of them are either classical pieces in precious metal cases or Bauhaus-inspired designs. In this, the steel Senator Chronograph Panorama Date by Glashütte Original stands apart in more than one way.

It begins with its movement. First released in 2014, Calibre 37 is an integrated chronograph which Glashütte Original developed and makes entirely in-house. Integrated means that it is not a base movement with a chronograph module mounted on top of it, but rather a movement that was made to be a chronograph from the beginning. Because of this, you can admire all the parts that support the chronograph through the sapphire glass case back, this includes the column-wheel.

The movement is fitted with a central rotor which is skeletonized and has a 21K gold segment screwed into it for added weight. A swan neck regulator and blued screws complement the typical Glashütte finish of this in-house caliber. The power reserve is 70 hours, which is quite generous and helps to further set this watch apart in the highly contested field of high-end chronographs.

As important as it is, the movement is only part of the equation. It is the 42mm steel case that puts this chronograph right into the sweet spot. Although precious metal chronographs are still in demand, steel versions are often the hot-sellers of many brands. It is an interesting part of the market of which any Haute Horlogerie brand wants a slice.

The case of the Senator Chronograph Panorama Date surrounds the black dial which is a satisfying mix of vintage and modern elements. The two Roman numerals give it a slightly classic look, but by filling this, as well as the other hour markers and the hands, with luminova, they get a modern edge. The sub dials are spaced out perfectly, and the panorama date (which sounds so much better than big or large date) is well positioned at six o’clock. A power reserve indicator is integrated into the subdial for the seconds at nine o’clock.

Although available on a metal bracelet and a leather strap, I thought that it looked especially good on the rubber strap with herringbone motive. The result is a very enticing chronograph that gives you that legendary Glashütte design and build quality in a very competitive package.

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