The Chronoswiss Timemaster is an important piece of horology history. Not only is an iconic design from the influential brand founder Gerd R. Lang, but also offers some mechanical advancements that are often overlooked – specifically, the larger manual-wind model.

This version is powered by a Chronoswiss caliber 672, which is based on the ETA/Unitas 6497 pocket watch style movement with a swan-neck fine precision regulator. What makes the 672 particularly special is that the small seconds subdial was converted to a central sweeping seconds hand. In addition, the 672 has a unique hacking seconds mechanism, a feature not found on stock 6497/6498 calibers. The movement in the mechanical Timemaster series is stunning to say the least, and Chronoswiss isn’t shy about its beauty, covering it with a large exhibition style caseback.

Both sides of the watch feature gorgeous coin edge bezels, another design cue popularized by Chronoswiss. The top bezel is adorned with a lume pip that can be repositioned, thanks to the no-click bi-directional rotating bezel.

The oversize onion crown gives you an interaction with the watch which you will be hard-pressed to find on any other timepiece. The winding is a complete joy and you will look forward to making it part of your morning ritual.

Let’s not forget the incredible Super-LumiNova c3 full lume dial on this reference 6233LU (LU for lume). Chronoswiss is one of the brands recognized for putting out lume dials like this. Yet another reason this watch is an important piece. There is so much that Chronoswiss did with this watch back in the early 2000s that has inspired other brands over the years.

KeepTheTime put this example on a black KTT vegan leather military strap. Included in the box is the original strap with a built-in hinge system for quick changing (most enthusiasts don’t even know the Timemaster series has this!), as well as the original and unworn pilot strap. Inside the aluminum hard case (another Chronoswiss specialty) is a novel case of parts for the watch. Have you ever seen another piece include a kit with a stem, gaskets, and even a new spring?

This will be turned into a proper watch review, but in the meantime, hopefully you learned something new about Chronoswiss and the important full lume dial Timemaster.

Detailed Specs:

• Reference: 6233LU, 6233
• Movement: Mechanical, manual-wind
• Caliber: Chronoswiss C.672
• 22 part stainless steel case
• Diameter: 44mm
• Thickness: 12.3mm
• Full lume dial (off white in day, green at night)
• Lume: C3 Super-LumiNova
• Bezel: Bi-directional rotating
• Crystal: Domed sapphire
• Band: Vegan leather military strap
• Lug-Width: 22mm
• Exhibition style caseback
• Water Resistant up to 100m.330ft
• Retail Price: NA, discontinued

Includes: Box and papers (Chronoswiss aluminum case, Timemaster booklet with dated certificate of ownership and warranty, original croc strap with signed buckle, original brown leather pilot strap, parts kit case).

Condition: Near mint overall. Very few signs of wear. The crystal is excellent. The lume pip is excellent. The crown winds smoothly and sets the time as it should. The original croc strap has wear but can still be used. The vegan military strap is new and unworn, as well as the pilot strap. The extra parts in the kit are unused.