A superb juxtaposition of cutting-edge materials and traditional craftsmanship characterises the CVSTOS Challenge Chrono II Carbon model.  Exerting a strong wrist presence, this handsome sports timekeeper displays the confident styling and technical innovation which defines the portfolio of Independent Watchmaking Company CVSTOS.

Since their founding in 2005, CVSTOS have demonstrated their proficiency for creating aesthetically futuristic watches each crafted using traditional Swiss watchmaking craftsmanship.  The Challenge Chrono II Carbon watch which features a steel case inlayed with carbon fibre continues the legacy. While other companies have incorporated the high-tech carbon fibre into their watches, CVSTOS have hand-worked the carbon as if it were a precious artisanal material and in doing so, have created visually stunning carbon fibre marquetry panels.

Enhancing the profile of the steel tonneau-shaped case, tiny slivers of carbon are individually laser-cut and laid by hand to create a perfect veneer. In order to create an exacting finish, seven coats of lacquer are applied to the carbon sections, followed by successive oven-firings.  A final levelling of the carbon surface, by means of robotic correction, followed by a manual polish, ensures perfection.  Adding a Métiers d’Art aspect to this model, the combination of meticulous handcrafting and machining also brings extraordinary beauty and depth to the technical material.

The dial has been crafted from anti-glare sapphire in order showcase the micro-mechanical components at work.  Arranged vertically, the 30-minute and 12-hour counters take up position at the 12 o’clock and 6 o’clock locations. A smaller counter for the seconds is located at the 9 o’clock, while a Tachymeter scale frames the flange.

Adhering to the paired-back dial aesthetic synonymous with CVSTOS timepieces, each indication is reduced to its essentials so that nothing obscures the intimate glimpse of the technical components.  The counters and power reserve have been skeletonised so that only their rims remain, and the hour and minutes hands have been meticulously open-worked.  Beneath them, one can discern the shadow of the date ring as each numeral waits in turn to appear in the aperture at the 3 o’clock location.

The piece is equipped with the CVSTOS 577 automatic chronograph calibre.  Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, it retains a power reserve of 42 hours.  Visible through the caseback sapphire, the wearer can appreciate the plain beauty of its industrial architecture and the bimetallic Tungsten 88 and Titanium Grade 5 rotor.

The CVSTOS Challenge Chrono II Carbon watch comes presented on a black carbon strap with steel pin buckle with black carbon inlay.