Timing Tradition with Modern Flair
A dance of past and present, where time breathes through vintage lines and modern mastery. The Endeavour Chronograph demands contemplation in awe.
Describing a watch as exquisite as the Endeavour Chronograph is, in many ways, a futile exercise. No words can fully capture the way light dances across its fumé dial or the effortless elegance of its proportions. Yet, as watch enthusiasts, we try—because some timepieces deserve more than admiration; they demand to be understood. H. Moser & Cie. and Massena LAB’s latest collaboration is one such creation. Limited to just 100 pieces, the Endeavour Chronograph is a masterful balance of history and modernity, a tribute to the enduring artistry of independent watchmaking.
H. Moser & Cie., founded in 1828 by Heinrich Moser, has long been a beacon of Swiss watchmaking excellence. Moser’s journey from Schaffhausen to Saint Petersburg saw his timepieces grace the wrists of Russian aristocrats and European elites, establishing a legacy of precision and ingenuity. Today, the brand continues to thrive, driven by the same dedication to craftsmanship and independent watchmaking.
Renowned for its minimalist design philosophy, H. Moser & Cie. has built a reputation around clean lines, functional elegance, and technical prowess. Iconic pieces from the Endeavour and Streamliner collections highlight this approach, characterized by signature fumé dials, in-house movements, and an unrelenting commitment to innovation. With the Endeavour Chronograph, however, Moser steps beyond its usual aesthetic, embracing a bolder, more intricate style inspired by the chronographs of the 1940s.
This collaboration with Massena LAB results in a watch that seamlessly bridges past and present. The Endeavour Chronograph features a classic bi-compax layout, with two sub-dials at 3 and 9 o’clock, creating a symmetrical and harmonious display. The inclusion of a tachymeter scale, a practical tool for measuring speed, evokes memories of timepieces once used by explorers and pioneers. Balancing vintage appeal with modern functionality, the watch embodies the adventurous spirit of both its creators.
Aesthetically, the Endeavour Chronograph is unmistakable, a statement few other watches can claim. Its 41mm stainless steel case houses a “Funky Blue” fumé dial, a signature of H. Moser & Cie., enriched with a sunburst pattern that plays with light. The Moser logo, displayed in its historic 1947 form, subtly reinforces the brand’s heritage. The leaf-shaped hands, numerals, and chronograph markers are coated with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring optimal readability in all lighting conditions. The watch’s carefully measured proportions, coupled with its vintage-inspired sub-dials and tachymeter scale, offer a unique visual depth. A brown kudu leather strap, hand-stitched with white thread, completes the look, lending a rustic elegance that complements the timepiece’s refined presence.
Beneath the surface, the Endeavour Chronograph is a mechanical marvel. At its heart lies the HMC 220 automatic Manufacture calibre, combined with a Dubois Dépraz chronograph module. This movement, measuring 32mm in diameter and 8.4mm in height, operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. The oscillating weight, engraved with the H. Moser hallmark, powers a bidirectional pawl winding system, ensuring an efficient energy reserve of at least three days. The movement is finished with Moser stripes, further underscoring the brand’s meticulous attention to craftsmanship. The inclusion of an original Straumann® hairspring enhances precision and stability, marking the Endeavour Chronograph as a technically accomplished timepiece.
As a limited-edition release of just 100 pieces, this watch is poised to become a sought-after collector’s item. Its exclusivity, combined with the prestige of both H. Moser & Cie. and Massena LAB, enhances its desirability among seasoned collectors and discerning enthusiasts. Unlike previous Moser creations, which lean towards minimalist elegance, the Endeavour Chronograph embraces a more complex aesthetic, setting it apart in the brand’s portfolio.
Industry experts have praised the collaboration, highlighting its ability to merge vintage aesthetics with modern-day refinement. The fusion of Massena LAB’s historical appreciation with Moser’s forward-thinking approach has resulted in a watch that feels both nostalgic and fresh. By honoring the past while embracing the future, the Endeavour Chronograph cements its place as a defining piece in contemporary independent watchmaking.
The Endeavour Chronograph, a collaboration between H. Moser & Cie. and Massena LAB, is priced at $27,600 USD. This positions it in the upper echelon of luxury chronographs, reflecting its limited production of 100 pieces and the brand's commitment to craftsmanship. While the price point is notably higher than some of H. Moser & Cie's other offerings, such as the Pioneer Centre Seconds priced at $14,200, the exclusivity and collaborative nature of this model may justify the premium for collectors seeking a unique addition to their collection.
Author: Sergio Galanti