Today, fans and riders alike were abuzz with excitement as the Tour de France’s Grand Depart took place in Copenhagen. To commemorate the start of the 21-day premiere event of the cycling world, Bravur Watches of Sweden released its 2022 edition of its La Grande Boucle chronograph. The Tour’s influence on the watch is immediately apparent from the yellow accents on the dial, which create a striking accent against the wet asphalt-colored dial that features a polka dot pattern, inspired by the King of the Mountains jersey. Hand constructed in Båstad, Sweden, the La Grande Boucle Chronograph is limited to only 50 pieces.
The 38.2mm case is smaller than most chronographs. Bravura did this purposely because the brand wanted it to be comfortable to wear, whether on or off the bike. The dial features a 15-minute counter at 3 o’clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o’clock, and a small second at 9 o’clock, with the main second hand starting once the chronograph pusher is pressed. The 12-hour index is inspired by the iconic French white and yellow milestones that are found on the French climbs, representing altitude, gradient, and distance to the top. Another cycling homage is found in the upside-down 13 found on the dial. This, of course, is a reference to the long tradition of the rider with number 13 in a race wearing it upside-down on the back of the jersey.
The Bravur La Grande Boucle Chronograph 2022 Edition is powered by the Swiss-made Sellita SW511 movement, with rhodium plating, blue screws, and Côtes de Genève and perlé decoration. With the sapphire case back, one can view the beautiful movement that also features a custom rotor with a deeply-etched “finish line” checker pattern. The watch is finished with a choice of three bracelets: a yellow FKM rubber, a black FKM rubber, or a stainless steel Milanese mesh band.
In other horological news, see the new Bremont Waterman Apex.
