*Last updated on 5 Nov 2024, this press release includes information and images available at this time. It will be updated and refined as the launch date approaches.
The Chronicle series is Mitch Mason's interpretation of the ideal field watch, a perfect mix between modern functionality with vintage design cues. It epitomizes the definition of the "daily beater" watch, built as the perfect tool for every situation.
First introduced in 2020 through a successful Kickstarter campaign, the Chronicle quickly sold out and was eventually discontinued. However, we're excited to announce its return this year with the Chronicle II, an upgraded iteration that enhances everything you loved about the original.
Tentative launch details
We will receive the physical prototypes, which will be sent for a media tour, around mid Nov 2024. Ideally, reviews and publications will be scheduled from 2 weeks prior to launch (Q1 2025).
The Chronicle II's pre-order launch date is likely week late Q1 2025, but will be finalized. The pre-orders will run directly on www.mitchmason.com.
The red variant will be a pre-order exclusive, only available during the pre-order window of around 30 days. It will not be produced anymore after this period.
Leather straps of colours matching the dials are likely to be included with pre-orders. More information to be provided soon.
Packaging has been revamped, new box and single watch leather pouch. More information to be provided soon.
RRP will be at US$559, and there would likely be a 10% discount during the pre-order window.
Case and dial
The Chronicle II will be available in two vibrant colors: blue and red. We've refined the case design to be sleeker and more elegant, showcasing its multifaceted surfaces through a combination of beadblasted and polished finishes. To achieve a slimmer profile, we've adjusted the waterproof rating from 200m to 100m, allowing the case thickness to be reduced from 12.5mm to 10mm. The 316L stainless steel cases will be hardened to 1200 Vickers, making them five times more resistant to scratches and perfectly suited for any adventure.
We've also perfected the dial proportions for enhanced readability. The hour markers now feature a more consistent thickness, and the numerals have been enlarged and filled with even more lume. The hands have been re-proportioned for optimal legibility. Additionally, we've integrated the crown from the Maelstrom, which offers improved size and grip for greater practicality.
Bracelet and clasp
We're keeping our cherished flat H-link bracelet, with its familiar 20mm to 16mm taper. They will sport quick-release spring bars, which is expected from a watch of this caliber. We're licensing RZE Watches's clasp, incorporating it with our Chronicle II, which sports a convenient on-the-fly adjustment that we’re confident you’ll appreciate.
Caseback
Mitch Mason is renowned for its captivating and intricate caseback artworks, and the Chronicle II upholds this tradition. This time, we're excited to introduce our new brand mascot, Mitch, depicted in his element - embarking on an adventurous quest. True to the adventurous spirit of every Chronicle owner, the caseback artwork is three dimensional and showcases Mitch in his expedition, perfectly aligning with the theme of discovery and adventure.
Summary of changes from Chronicle I to II
Variants: Blue - Steel Blue, Red - variant name to be confirmed soon
Case and bracelet material: 316L stainless steel, hardened to 1200 Vickers.
Case diameter: 36.5mm to 36mm.
Lug to lug length: 43.5mm to 44mm.
Lug width: 20mm, no change.
Case thickness (without crystal): 12mm to 10mm.
Movement: Miyota 9039, no change.
Water resistance: 200m to 100m (to reduce case thickness). Screw down crown retained.
Bracelet links: New end links to match new case, links no change (H-links). End links now have quick-release spring bars. All removal links are screw-in.
Bracelet clasp: Licensed from RZE watches, with on the fly adjustment.
Bracelet taper: 20mm to 16mm, no change.
Crystal material: Sapphire, no change.
Crystal profile: Double domed to flat with rounded edges. Customers feedbacked that double domed crystal was too reflective.
Crystal AR coating: 5 layers (super AR), no change.
Dial layout/format: Improved proportions with indices and numerals. Cardinal hour markers and remaining baton indices are now of equal thickness. 12, 3, 6, 9 numerals are still sandwiched, but now larger in size. Simplified minute/seconds track, with stamped concentric circle pattern. Minute/second track is now printed in white (was grey) for improved legibility.
Dial texture: Vertically brushed to vertical texture via stamping.
Lume: Old Radium Super-LumiNova® on blue dial, White (BGW9) Super-LumiNova® on red dial.
Hands: Hour and minute hands same design, but adjust proportions. Seconds hand simplified via removal of counterbalance.
Case profile: Updated with new chamfered surfaces.
Case finishing: Brushed and polished to beadblasted and polished.
Crown: Embossed logo to milled design (like on Maelstrom).
Caseback: From chemically etched caseback artwork, to a new 3D stamped caseback artwork.
Contact
For any questions, please contact us at benedict@mitchmason.com.
Thank you for your time.