By Charles Walhingford
Just to let you know I did not care for any Graham watches before. I cringe at that lever contraption digging into my wrist. I am well aware that this patented lever is an extremely accurate way to quickly engage the chronograph feature, but I certainly would not dream of wearing any watch that would have a hinge hanging off the side in any type of elegant dress. But… I have to admit that Graham has done well to rethink this Prodive line with this limited edition of 250 pieces Prodive Black and Gold.
I am glad to see that Graham signature Chronograph Lever is reengineered. It has a more sleek and practical placement being set closer to the 44 mm case, one may not have to worry about the discomfort of that lever digging into their wrist. Though it may not be very practical but ultra cool, this watch’s lever is actually made of 18kt gold. I also like the use of the black Alligator leather strap rather than Graham’s (over use) of rubber and synthetic straps, which dresses this Sports watch up nicely. This strap is also equipped with a folding steel DLC clasp with a diver’s extension. Lastly the use of DLC through out, instead of PVD makes for a breath of fresh black air, knowing that the “Black” stays true as the 18 carat Gold.
This beauty is definitely more of a conversation piece with the masculine Gold and Black Color scheme then a diver’s watch rated at 2000 feet or 600 meters.
Much like its brother watch, the Prodive Professional, the dial is exactly the same of course except for the rich use of gold in the dial instead of yellow, blue or black. I love the second hand or rather the second “disk” shaped like a propeller that rotates set in between the three and five o’clock positions.
The Graham Prodive Black and Gold Limited Edition is ran by the 25 jeweled, 28,800 vph(4 Hz) Graham caliber G1750 automatic mono-pusher chronograph movement with a 48 hours power reserve. The 45 mm black DLC case is holds a domed sapphire crystal in the front and a shark stamped and limited edition serial number on the case back. Around the case sits the unidirectional bezel. Inside the case we have two sub-dial displaying the second counter and 30 minute, minute counter. For more info, please visit graham1695.com
Charles Walhingford – Contributing Writer
Charles Walhingford was bitten at 6 years old by the watch bug with his father’s Bulova Accutron Spaceview. To him nothing can beat that sweep and hum. Charles believes the hard work, time and artistry that the watch maker spent making your watch is a direct reflection of the hard work and sacrifice you have made to afford that particular time piece. Charles recently started a Youtube channel where he shows his admiration for watches. Charles loves independent brands like Kobold and Muhle Glashutte but equally adores the heavy weights like Breitling and Breguet. Read his articles here.
