Glashütte Original (GO) drops two new variations of the Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date, with dials in striking colours: “Swimming Pool” turquoise or “Watermelon” coral red. Featuring a cushion-shaped case modelled on the 1970s watches made by GO’s East German predecessor, the Seventies Chronograph is equipped with the in-house cal. 37-02, a high-spec calibre decorated in the brand’s recognisable, German-inspired style.

Initial thoughts

Having debuted a decade ago, the Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date been iterated in several colours, including ochre, grey-blue, grey, and green. Despite the excellent movement, especially in this price range, the Seventies Chronograph hasn’t really gained much traction, perhaps because of the chunky proportions and retro style – which is quite contradictory since current tastes lean towards vintage-inspired watches with comparable vintage-style size.

Priced at US$16,000, the Seventies Chronograph is priced well, particularly considering the in-house movement. The Seventies Chronograph is proof that does GO does movements well, though its designs might not be for everyone.

GUB styling

The TV-screen case is inspired by 1970s watches made by VEB Glashütter Uhrenbetriebe, or GUB for short, the state-owned watchmaking enterprise of East Germany. GUB was later privatised and evolved into today’s GO. While the East German originals were no frills, the Seventies Chronograph has quality of make.

Water resistant to 100m, the squarish steel case measures 40 mm by  40 mm, and relatively thick at 14.1 mm. It’s fitted to an integrated steel bracelet, though a rubber strap is an option.

The dial is clean and symmetrical, but manages to incorporate more indications than the typical chronograph. It has the brand’s trademark Panorama Date at six o’clock, a power reserve indicator within the seconds at nine, along with an unusual a 12-hour counter inside the window just below 12 o’clock.

Like earlier versions of the model, the is powered by the in-house cal. 37-02, which is an integrated chronograph with a 70-hour power reserve and a silicon hairspring.

The movement is executed in GO’s traditional style, with a three-quarter plate, swan’s neck regulator index, and the double “G” emblem on the rotor. The decoration is also appealing, with striping on the bridges and rotor, bevelled edges, as well as heat-blued screws with polished heads.

Key facts and price

Glashütte Original Seventies Chronograph Panorama Date
Ref. 1-37-02-17-02-70 (stainless steel bracelet)
Ref. 1-37-02-17-02-63 (rubber strap)
Ref. 1-37-02-16-02-70 (stainless steel bracelet)
Ref. 1-37-02-16-02-63 (rubber strap)

Diameter: 40 mm by 40 mm
Height: 14.1 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 100 m

Movement: Cal. 37-02
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, Panorama Date, flyback chronograph, and power reserve display
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 70 hours

Strap: Matching stainless steel bracelet or rubber strap

Limited edition: 100 pieces each
Availability: Now at Glashütte Original boutiques and retailers
Price: US$16,000 on bracelet; US14,800 on rubber strap

For more, visit glashuette-original.com