Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer Meteorite Ref. NM9026C-S46C-MSLR - 904L Steel

After that collision, renowned jeweller Webb C. Ball was appointed Chief Time Inspector to investigate the accident's timekeeping issues. Ball then formulated a new timekeeping system for the railroad industry, revolutionising timekeeping (in the industry) and thus making train travel significantly safer for passengers and employees. The watches employees used were certified and issued by Ball, leading to the birth of the legendary company known today as Ball Watch Co.

Unveiling the newest Engineer III Marvelight, Ball has introduced their new COSC movement in one of their most popular Engineer III models, the Marvelight. Measuring 40mm in diameter, 12.45mm in height, and 46.6mm lug-to-lug, the watch strikes a perfect balance for everyday wear, sitting comfortably on a wide range of wrists. A screwed-in crown ensures robustness and, combined with its 100m water resistance, the Marvelight is built to perform as reliably as it looks.

Ball Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer Meteorite Ref. NM9026C-S46C-MSLR - 904L Steel

What makes this Engineer III Marvelight unique is the use of the premium 904L stainless steel. This steel has been used primarily by the big "R" company for decades. 904L 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 requires special machinery and production processes to be shaped, which is why it is not as commonly used. Visually, 904L stainless steel has an exceptionally high polish compared to 316L steel and ages exquisitely well.

Moving to the dial, the new Engineer III Chronometer showcases a mesmerizing meteorite surface, its natural streaks and textures shimmering under the light with captivating irregularity. At 3 o'clock, a date magnifier ensures clarity at a glance, while 12 luminous indices bring the dial to life. Each marker houses a tritium micro gas tube—11 thick and bold, with a smaller one nestled discreetly beside the date. This clever arrangement maintains balance while maximizing nighttime legibility.

Use of 904L Stainless Steel Means Exceptional Shine

In true Ball fashion, the micro gas tubes shine steadily in the dark without external charging. Here, they take on a playful twist: each index is framed in different hues, glowing in the very same colors after nightfall. Complementing them are dauphine-style hands that radiate in yellow, alongside the signature seconds hand bearing Ball's "RR" emblem as its counterweight. Protecting it all is a flat sapphire crystal with a cyclops magnifier and anti-reflective coating beneath, ensuring durability and readability from every angle.

The Ball Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer Meteorite is powered by the Ball calibre RR1103-C. It is a chronometer certified 25-jewel automatic movement based on the ubiquitous ETA2824-2 that boasts a 40-hour power reserve even though it beats at 28,800bph(4 Hertz). The movement is hooded by a screw-in caseback that displays Ball's iconic emblem with essential information engraved at the periphery.

Elegant case and bracelet finishing

The new Marvelight's 904L steel bracelet runs alongside the show's star and is done with a nice mixture of polished and satin-brushed finishing. The bracelet gets a nice taper from 20mm to 18mm at the clasp area, making it more wearable. It further features a double-sided locking clasp system, making the bracelet appear more streamlined when worn.

15 micro gas tubes on hour, minute and second hands and dial for night reading capability

The Ball Engineer III Marvelight Chronometer Meteorite is a watch for those who truly appreciate fine watchmaking, blending reliability and value from a respected brand. Its premium 904L stainless steel case ensures both brilliance and durability, but it is the mesmerizing meteorite dial that steals the show. Each unique pattern tells a story from beyond our world, elevated by Ball's signature self-illuminating tritium tubes that glow effortlessly in the dark. With a robust 28,800bph modified ETA movement and exceptional finishing, the Marvelight proves itself to be one of the most compelling value propositions today, and with such a dial it is hard to find a reason not to love it.

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