The world of horology is seeing a resurgence of interest in classically styled chronographs, moving away from the oversized and often garish designs of the early 2000s. Lorca, a microbrand that made a strong debut with its Model No.1 GMT, is capitalizing on this trend with the release of its Model No.2 Chronograph. The latest timepiece, currently available at the Time+Tide Watch Discovery Studio in New York City, aims to deliver a vintage aesthetic with modern build quality and functionality.
The Lorca Model No.2 is designed around the principle that proportions are paramount. The watch isn’t about flashy aesthetics; it’s about a cohesive design that feels balanced and true to the spirit of classic chronographs. This focus on detail extends to every aspect of the watch, from its case dimensions to its movement and finishing.
The 37mm case, crafted from 316L stainless steel, strikes a balance between vintage sizing and contemporary wearability. While the diameter might feel slightly understated for a chronograph, the addition of a 38mm rotating bezel adds a subtle visual weight. At 11.6mm thick, the case is marginally thinner than a contemporary Rolex Daytona, and features a double-domed sapphire crystal for a vintage-inspired look. The 46mm lug-to-lug distance ensures a comfortable fit on a variety of wrists, while drilled lugs provide easy strap changes.
Functionality hasn’t been sacrificed for style. The Model No.2 boasts a water resistance of 100 meters, protected by a screw-down crown. The case finishing is a blend of brushed and polished surfaces, offering a versatile aesthetic suitable for both dressy and casual occasions.
Lorca offers two dial options for the Model No.2 Chronograph: “Golden Gray” and sunburst silver. The “Golden Gray” dial appears black at first glance, but reveals golden brown tones under light, complemented by silver subdials with linear brushing. The sunburst silver dial offers a cleaner, more clinical aesthetic, with silver subdials that subtly catch the light. Both dials feature ultra-thin applied hour markers and small chrome dots at the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions, avoiding the often-controversial employ of faux patina.
Powering the Model No.2 is the manually-wound Sellita SW510 M chronograph movement. This cam-actuated caliber, measuring just 7mm thick, contributes to the watch’s slim profile. The movement is decorated with gold engraving and Côtes de Genève finishing, visible through a closed stainless steel caseback. The Sellita SW510 M provides a 63-hour power reserve and an accuracy of ±5 seconds per day, operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour.
Completing the vintage aesthetic is a beads-of-rice bracelet in brushed stainless steel. The bracelet is slightly wider than typical, but tapers towards a folding clasp with a hidden micro-adjustment system for a precise fit. The drilled lugs allow for easy swapping with Lorca’s calfskin, deerskin, or suede strap options.
Lorca Model No. 2 Chronograph Specifications
| Brand | Lorca |
|---|---|
| Model | Model No.2 Chronograph |
| Case Dimensions | 37mm (Diameter) x 11.6mm (Thickness) x 46mm (Lug-to-Lug) |
| Case Material | 316L Stainless Steel |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters |
| Crystal | Double-Domed Sapphire |
| Movement | Sellita SW510 M, Manually-Wound |
| Power Reserve | 63 hours |
| Price | US$2,750 |
The Lorca Model No.2 Chronograph is available for purchase through the Time+Tide Shop and exclusively in person at the Time+Tide Watch Discovery Studio in New York City. The price is set at US$2,750.
Lorca’s commitment to vintage-inspired design and quality construction positions the Model No.2 as a compelling option for watch enthusiasts seeking a classically styled chronograph. As the brand continues to refine its offerings, it will be engaging to observe how Lorca further develops its niche within the growing microbrand watch market.
What are your thoughts on the resurgence of vintage-inspired watch designs? Share your opinions in the comments below.