Millesime Chronograph Black Ref. 7765-STC-20001

Raymond Weil founded his eponymous Swiss watch brand in 1976 during the quartz crisis, aiming to create Swiss wonders that brings a whole new dimension to the industry. His vision quickly gained international acclaim. The brand is renowned for its strong musical inspiration, evident in collections like Amadeus, Fidelio, and Nabucco. The brand has continued to innovate while maintaining its family-owned independence and commitment to Swiss watchmaking excellence. Today, Raymond Weil is famous in the scene of horology being one of the flagships of the Swiss watchmaking industry.

The Raymond Weil Millesime Automatic Small Seconds clinched the prestigious 2023 Challenge Watch Prize at the Grand Prix de l'Horlogerie de Genève (GPHG), recognized as the "Oscars" of watchmaking. By winning this prize in 2023, Raymond Weil's Millesime Automatic Small Seconds wasn't just acknowledged for its aesthetics; it demonstrated innovative craftsmanship, design integrity, and performance—all at a sub‑CHF 2,000 price point. In essence, the Challenge Award is a high-profile nod that quality watchmaking isn't just for high-budget collectors—it celebrates accessible excellence and encourages the industry to innovate within attainable price brackets.

Raymond Weil Millesime Chronograph Black

The Raymond Weil Millesime collection is a tribute to the elegance of mid-20th-century watchmaking, reimagined through a contemporary lens. Rather than replicating past designs, the brand crafted a fresh interpretation of vintage aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the refined simplicity of sector dials and the understated charm of classical timepieces. This approach, termed "evolved design," blends historical concepts with modern sensibilities, resulting in watches that feel both timeless and current. The Millesime series embodies Raymond Weil's commitment to honoring horological traditions featuring a classic three-part case with an ever-nostalgic design.

As we approach the three-part stainless steel case, the flat bezel, large fluted crown with the RW monogram and combination of finishes becomes apparent. The vertically brushed bezel is contrasted beautifully by the polished bevel and lugs. Measuring at 39.5mm in diameter, 42mm lug to lug and 12.9mm thick, tho made for the mens collection, the ever-universal 39.5mm sizing will surprise many with it’s unisex fit. Added with drill lugs for ease of strap switching and curved to hug the wrist, the Millesime series is not lacking in the details category.

Tribute to the elegance of mid-20th-century watchmaking

Housed underneath the glassbox sapphire crystal with dual-sided antireflective coating is the classy black dial. Keeping to a sector base, a crosshair at the centre which divides the watch into 4 sectors, popularised in the 1920s art deco period, the vintage inspired sector dial serves as an added geometry guide for simpler time reading experience. Complimenting the sector design beautifully is the discreetly vertically brushed centre section. Complemented by a white tachymeter scale on the periphery, enhancing its sporty yet refined character and Super-Luminova indexes/hands for legibility in the dark.

Separating itself from other entries in the Millesime collection is the chronograph complication that is executed to it’s finest. Three recessed sub-dials are arranged in a tri-compax configuration: a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, a 12-hour counter at 6 o'clock, and a running seconds at 9 o'clock. These sub-dials are finished in black with white Arabic numerals, evoking the classic "Panda dial" aesthetic. 

Super-Luminova indexes and hands for legibility in the dark

Powered by the automatic RW5030 (based on the SW510), the Millesime Chronograph features 27 jewels, beating at 28,800bph with a robust 56-hour power reserve. Housed behind a sapphire crystal exhibition caseback, the movement offers a clear view of its finely finished mechanics. With a water resistance of 50 meters, it balances mechanical sophistication with practicality—ideal for daily wear with a touch of vintage.

Matching the watch beautifully is the black leather strap. Clearly appealing to a more vintage class, it is upgraded with a modern touch of W-stitched detail. Making it an excellent choice to compliment the watch’s sophisticated look.

Overall, the Raymond Weil Millesime has great execution from concept to timepiece. Their successful capture and integrate vintage watchmaking while delivering reliability and refinement from today’s modern craftsmanship. With its timeless design, thoughtfully executed details, and robust movement, it stands as a testament to Raymond Weil’s dedication to honoring the past while embracing the present—a true modern classic for discerning collectors and everyday wearers alike.