Glashütte Original has refreshed its Senator chronograph with two new models that share the same mechanics but look like they come from completely different eras.
The Senator Chronograph and Senator Chronograph Navigator both use a slimmer 41mm stainless steel case measuring 12.9mm thick. Water resistance is 50 metres, and a sapphire caseback gives you a clear view of the movement inside.
For something dressier, the standard Senator Chronograph looks back to observation watches made in Glashütte during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Its textured silver dial is paired with blue-coated solid-gold Roman numerals and matching blue hands, giving it a much more traditional feel.
The Navigator goes the other way, taking its cues from pilot’s watches of the 1940s. A matte black dial is matched with bright Arabic numerals made from luminous material, and the chunky pilot-style crown is designed to be easy to grip. Even the Panorama Date switches to white on black to fit the darker look.
Underneath, however, the two watches are essentially the same. Both use Glashütte Original’s automatic Calibre 37-24, an integrated column-wheel flyback chronograph with a 70-hour power reserve. It handles central chronograph seconds, a 30-minute counter, small seconds and the brand’s signature Panorama Date.
Flip either watch over and a newly skeletonised rotor leaves more of the movement on show. Its 21-carat gold oscillating weight sits among the usual Glashütte details, including striped finishing and blued screws.
Buyers can choose from Louisiana alligator leather, a sand-coloured synthetic strap or a stainless steel bracelet, all with a tool-free quick-change system. Prices start at $16,100 on a strap and rise to $17,100 on the bracelet.
For anyone choosing between the two, it really comes down to the look you prefer. One feels right at home with a suit, and the other looks much more ready for a cockpit.