The world of horological collaborations is a fascinating space, often yielding timepieces that are more than the sum of their parts. The Nivada Grenchen x Worn & Wound Datomaster VK63 V3 Watch ($499) is a prime example, marking the third successful partnership between these two entities, and presenting a chronograph that confidently carves its own niche. Building upon the foundation laid by earlier collaborations, this Datomaster iteration takes a bold step forward, embracing a distinctive and genuinely head-turning colour palette that sets it apart from the conventional chronograph landscape.
Originally envisioned as a more accessible counterpart to chronographs powered by the esteemed Valjoux 72, this VK63 variant, with its reliable and stylish Sii VK Meca-Quartz movement, now stands alone, a testament to considered design and a playful reinterpretation of racing chronograph aesthetics.
Drawing inspiration from the vibrant hues and dynamic forms of mid-twentieth-century automobiles, the dial of the Datomaster VK63 V3 is a masterclass in unconventional chromatic harmony. It commences with a cool, pale mint base, a refreshing and subtly retro canvas upon which the chronograph’s complexities are artfully arranged. At the dial’s heart, an unexpected circle of a deeper, greener teal emerges, expanding outwards to encompass the sub-seconds register at six o’clock. This central teal zone acts as a visual anchor, grounding the dial while simultaneously introducing an element of surprise and intrigue. Sub-dials positioned at three and nine o’clock, dedicated to 24-hour and 60-minute chronograph counters respectively, intentionally bisect this central teal circle, their placement serving not to disrupt, but rather to accentuate their functional purpose within the dial’s overall architecture.
Dark gray indexes provide essential contrast against the pale mint backdrop, ensuring unwavering legibility, while a daring accent of deep purple, subtly incorporated, introduces an unexpected play of colour, elevating the dial from mere functionality to a realm of genuine aesthetic interest. This is not a racing chronograph dial that adheres to established norms; it is a re-imagining, a confident stride away from the predictable, designed to command attention and spark conversation.
The Datomaster VK63 V3 is housed in a stainless steel case, perfectly proportioned at 36mm in diameter, with a 43.5mm lug-to-lug dimension and a 12mm thickness. These classic chronograph case dimensions imbue the watch with a familiar and comfortable feel on the wrist, evoking the vintage chronographs that inspired its design. The case’s brushed and polished stainless steel finish further enhances its timeless appeal, providing a sophisticated backdrop for the dial’s vibrant colourway. Paired with a brown rally strap, the Datomaster VK63 V3 exudes a distinctly vintage character.
Indeed, were it not for the discreetly modern precision of its Meca-Quartz movement, one could easily mistake this timepiece for a meticulously preserved “exotic” dial chronograph hailing from the golden era of 1960s motorsport. This deliberate fusion of vintage aesthetics and contemporary movement technology offers a compelling proposition: the allure of a classic chronograph experience, underpinned by modern reliability and affordability.
Limited to a mere 150 pieces worldwide, the Nivada Grenchen x Worn & Wound Datomaster VK63 V3 occupies a space of curated exclusivity. This is a watch designed to stand out within a collection, not merely for its rarity, but for its inherent design merit and its confident departure from horological convention. For those seeking a chronograph that transcends the predictable, that embraces colour with boldness and subtlety in equal measure, and that offers a compelling blend of vintage inspiration and modern execution, the Datomaster VK63 V3 presents a uniquely alluring proposition.
Nivada Grenchen, a brand with a rich history dating back to 1926, a company that pioneered automatic watch manufacturing and equipped polar expeditions in the 1950s with their robust Antarctic model, continues to demonstrate its ability to innovate while honouring its heritage. The Datomaster VK63 V3, born from a collaboration with Worn & Wound, is a compelling testament to this enduring spirit, a chronograph that is as distinctive as it is dependable, ready to grace the wrists of discerning enthusiasts when it commences shipping in July of 2025.
