Engineer III Ohio Chronometer Black Ref. NM9026C-S5CJ-BK - 904L Steel

In 1891, Webster C. Ball became recognised around the world for setting the official railroad standard of timekeeping which greatly influenced the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute, or COSC, that sets the standard for current mechanical watch accuracy today. This Ball Engineer II Ohio 40mm watch is one of their most practical and sophisticated timepieces that reflects the extensive and experienced heritage of the brand.

BALL Engineer III Ohio Chronometer Black Ref. NM9026C-S5CJ-BK - 904L Steel

Unveiling the new BALL Watch Co. Engineer III Ohio Chronometer Ref. NM9026C-S5CJ-BK. The Engineer III Ohio measures in at perfect 40mm in diameter with a height of 13.15mm. Further, it features a screwed-in crown, commonly found on most Ball’s watches, allowing it to have a 100m/330ft water resistance. Once the time and date adjustments are done, screwing back the crown will enable one to bring it out for some splash around water.

What makes the Engineer III Ohio really unique is the use of 904L stainless steel through and through. This steel has been used primarily by the big “R” company for decades now. 904L grade stainless steel is unlike any other steel. Due to its extra amounts of chromium, molybdenum, nickel and copper, 904L steel features superior resistance to corrosion, rust and acids. While its unique hardness allows it to withstand extreme conditions, it also requires special machinery and production processes in order to be shaped. Visually, 904L grade steel has an exceptional high polish compared to 316L steel and ages exquisitely well.

Use of 904L Stainless Steel Means Exceptional Shine

Selected BALL timepieces are now built using 904L steel. Though every timepiece is made to handle harsh conditions, the implementation of 904L stainless steel only fortifies the strength and reliability.

Moving on to the black dial, the new Engineer III Ohio takes some tweaks from the earlier versions. There are a total of 15 micro gas tubes on the hour, minute, second hands and dial for night reading capability.

Couple this with a dauphine style hour and minute hands, along with their signature seconds hand with Ball’s “RR” symbol as counterweight on the other end. The no-nonsense black dial is matched elegantly with applied index and hands giving the watch an air of sassiness. Topping things off for the dial, the Engineer III has a sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating underneath, and a date-magnifier to read off the calendar easily.

Black dial with applied hour markers

Under the hood, the Engineer III Pioneer is driven by the Chronometer certified COSC Ball Caliber RR1103-C Swiss automatic movement, a chronometer-grade engine based on the ever-reliable 25 jewel ETA 2824-2 or the 26 jewel Sellita SW200 depending on the execution. Beating at a rate of 28,800 beats per hour with a healthy power reserve of approximately 38 hours, this mechanical movement is meticulously crafted and vigorously tested by Ball to deliver utmost precision and performance. Adding to the mix, the watch is rated with a shock resistance of 5,000Gs and anti-magnetic to 80,000A/m, making it incredibly robust for the daily grind.

The new Engineer III Ohio Chronometer is paired with their elegant solid links bracelet that is made from the sam 904L steel material, with a nice mixture of polished and satin finished throughout. The bracelet features a double-sided locking clasp system which makes the bracelet more streamlined when being worn signed tang buckle.

Self Powered Tritium Vials Luminous

Summing things up, the BALL Watch Co. Engineer III Ohio Chronometer Ref. NM9026C-S5CJ-BK is certainly for someone who appreciates fine watchmaking that packs reliability and value from a respected watch company. The use of 904L stainless steel gives the watch an exceptional glow while making it tougher and more corrosion resistant at the same time. The watch exhibits exceptional value given that it has a COSC 28,800bph modified ETA movement. The beautiful dial with self-illuminating tritium tubes and exceptional case makes this watch high up in the value-for-money chart. We cannot find a reason not to like this watch if you are in the market for an everyday smart casual watch.