CODE41 NB24 Stratom
Jamie Weiss- Switzerland’s no-bullshit, fan-favourite microbrand returns with a new edition of their NB24 chronograph
- A sportier take on the NB24 formula, the Stratom features a case design first introduced with the T360 Tourbillon
- Exposed screws and a boxy form factor make the Stratom the boldest CODE41 yet
Not all microbrands are created equal – especially Swiss ones. Many Swiss microbrands really like to emphasise and trade their Swissness while producing watches that have little to do with the fine watchmaking tradition of their homeland, sourcing components from questionable places and being opaque about the construction of their timepieces. CODE41 is the opposite of that. This Lausanne-based brand has garnered a passionate legion of fans who respect their commitment to offering haute horlogerie at properly affordable prices, but also thanks to their emphasis on clear, honest communication about component cost and sources.
The other thing CODE41 does very well is listen to their fans – and that’s exactly what they’ve done with the third edition of their popular NB24 chronograph, which they’re now offering in two different case variants: the familiar NativeDNA case design, and the new Stratom case design, which made its debut with the T360 Tourbillon released earlier this year. The CODE41 NB24 Stratom lowers the cost of entry to a Stratom-cased watch even further, as well as brings a bunch of fun new colours and the practicality of a chronograph to the table.
Firstly, let’s talk about CODE41’s Stratom case design. CODE41 is already well-known for its distinct aerospace/sci-fi aesthetic but the Stratom is easily the boldest and most purposeful design the Swiss brand has introduced yet. The four exposed tri-wing tamper-proof screws at each corner really make it feel like some sort of high-tech instrument, and differentiates the NB24 Stratom from previous CODE41 case designs.
The openworked dial adds to that vibe, especially with its unique dial-side peripheral rotor. I can’t think of another watch that features a dial-side rotor like this; it’s very cool and proper high-end horology. The Hublot-style date window at 6 o’clock and the prominent, colourful bridge also add additional flair. Speaking of colours, the NB24 Stratom is available in four different colours (voted on by fans): blue, orange, black and black with red discs. A variety of colourful rubber and perforated leather straps are available for the watch, as well as a titanium bracelet.
As you may have guessed from the dial-side rotor, the CODE41 NB24 Stratom is powered by a (heavily) manufacture-modified Valjoux 7750 movement, which CODE41 has additionally zhushed up by reorienting the chronograph counters 90 degrees and redesigning the bridges. All of the movement’s components, except for the barrel spring and jewels, are produced in-house and assembled in Switzerland.
CODE41 NB24 Stratom pricing and availability
Pre-orders for the CODE41 NB24 Stratom will be open from September 20th to October 18th 2023, inclusive. Delivery dates are scheduled for summer 2024. Price: CHF 7,300. Find out more here.
| Brand | CODE41 |
| Model | NB24 Stratom |
| Case Dimensions | 42.7mm (D) x 14.5mm (T) |
| Case Material | Grade 5 titanium |
| Water Resistance | 50 metres |
| Crystal(s) | Sapphire |
| Dial | Openworked |
| Strap | Titanium bracelet / rubber strap / perforated leather strap |
| Movement | Manufacture-modified Valjoux 7750, dial-side peripheral weight |
| Power Reserve | 48 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, date, chronograph |
| Availability | Pre-orders open from September 20th to October 18th 2023, delivery scheduled for summer 2024 |
| Price | CHF 7,300 |