IN-DEPTH: The Tudor Fastrider Chrono (ref 42010N)
Felix ScholzThe story in a second
When is a watch not a watch? When it’s an expression of freedom and adventure.
It’s been a big year for Tudor. 2015 saw the inclusion of their very first in-house movement, in the brand-new North Flag as well as the hotly anticipated blue Pelagos. They produced their first unique piece for the Only Watch charity auction and, just a few weeks ago announced the internet-melting Black Bay Black. They also released a colourful triptych of sporty chronographs in collaboration with Ducati – the Fastrider Chrono. A welcome update to the technical Fastrider collection, this was somewhat overshadowed by all the other successes, receiving far less time in the sun than befits such a summery watch. Until now, that is.
The Scrambler
The Ducati Diavel was the inspiration for the original model – the Fastrider Black Shield, a matte black ceramic watch released in 2013 that was an instant hit. Three years on, for this new offering, the muse is the revamped version of one of Ducati’s most iconic bikes – the Scrambler. The new Scrambler is a youthful and retro take on a simple, stripped-back ride – an energy captured perfectly by the Fastrider Chrono.
The dial
This is the element that stands out most on the Fastrider, coming in poppy yellow and red, as well as an olive green, each bringing a dramatically different mood, and each with its own charms. Clearly green is the safest, most versatile option while the yellow (inspired specifically by the 1962 Scrambler) is the most ‘out there’. The go-faster Ducati red sits somewhere in between. Looking at images of all three, there was no question that my favourite was the green. But when I held them in my hands that certainty wavered. Sure, the yellow was a lot bolder than I’d normally wear – but after trying it on, it moved into the ‘maybe’ list. And the red? Just plain cool.
Regardless of your colour of choice, there’s no avoiding the fact the Fastrider is made for the weekend – and preferably the open road. And that’s the key thing about these watches. They’re more than their specifications – they’re an attitude, almost a state of mind. From nine to five you might be a mild-mannered, suit-wearing actuary – but strap on a Fastrider once you clock off and you’re practically required to fire up the bike and find some tight curves to hug.
While colour is the most prevalent feature, there’s a myriad of other subtle details at play, as we’ve come to expect with Tudor. Foremost among these is the surprisingly vintage vibe the dial gives off. Even though the Fastrider is a resolutely contemporary design, the matte dial, largely devoid of the detail that so often plagues chronographs, is reminiscent of the iconic Rolex ‘Paul Newman’ Daytonas. The square, ’70s-inspired counterweights to the chronograph hands add to that retro feel.
On the subject of hands, another great detail is how those on the subdial match the dial colour – a nice touch. Meanwhile, all the hands are ruthenium, another small element that places Tudor a cut above the competition. Modern indices and multi-level subdials keep the overall look and feel of the dial contemporary, and very much in keeping with the rest of the watch.
The case
If the dial has touches of heritage, the case of the Fastrider is all about the now, its broad, sweeping lines executed with laser-like precision. The contrast with the PVD pushers and crown, ceramic bezel and rapid date corrector (inset into a black triangle on the case at 9 o’clock) adds to the aggressive styling. More than anything, this speaks to the Tudor-Ducati partnership, the 42mm stainless steel case clearly inspired by the lines of the Italian motorcycle company, and finished with Tudor’s own exacting standards.
The strap
The Fastrider comes on either leather or rubber options, and while the rubber is a good option if you plan to take a dip (which you won’t regret, with 150m of water resistance), the leather is the clear winner for me. The padded strap is exceptionally comfortable, with ribbed details evoking a motorbike saddle or jacket, that make it the perfect complement to the watch.
The movement
Much like the bike that inspired it, the Fastrider is powered by a no-fuss, robust movement: a modified ETA 7753, with around 46 hours of power reserve. The quick date change feature (that recessed pusher at the nine o’clock position) adds to the case design and and makes the date more functional, though I can’t help wondering if this watch needs a date at all. Adherence to a calendar seems to go against the carefree philosophy that underpins this watch.
On the wrist
Positioned as a ‘fun’ watch, there’s no hiding the Fastrider’s larger-than-life personality. But a playful spirit doesn’t mean it’s frivolous. For all its colour and movement this is a seriously impressive piece of kit – the finishes on the dial, the case design and construction, and even the strap are all carefully considered and well executed. It’s comfortable, but more importantly it’s enjoyable to wear. Looking down at that dial, you can’t help but smile.
This would be a standout piece in any other year, and it’s a testament to Tudor’s strong position that the Fastrider Chrono is only one of many excellent new pieces for the brand.
The knowledge
Talking point
Which colour do you prefer? Sure about that?
For the watch forums
Is the lack of a date you can quick-set via the crown a deal-breaker on a chronograph?
Who’s it for?
This is pitched firmly at young, free-spirited types who long for adventure and the open road, and while the endless summer may be a dream that has to fade one day, wearing a Fastrider is a reminder to never completely give up on it.
What would we change?
It might skew the delicate balance of contemporary and retro elements at play (and interfere with Tudor’s heritage collections), but I think replacing the applied subdials with simpler, printed ones would look awesome on that crisp, matte dial.
Tudor Fastrider Chrono Australian pricing
The Fastrider Chrono has an RRP of $4850 on rubber or leather.
Images by Jason Reekie.
Specifications
Brand
Tudor
Model
Fastrider Chrono
Reference No
42010N
Case Size
42mm
Case Material
316L stainless steel, satin finish with PVD-treated steel pushers
Dial
Matt-finish yellow, green or red
Strap
Black leather or black rubber
Movement
7753, self-winding mechanical movement
Crystal
Sapphire
Functions
Centre hour, minute and seconds hands; small seconds at 9 o'clock 30-minute totaliser at 3 o'clock and 12-hour totaliser at 6 o'clock, date at 4.30
Bezel
Matt black ceramic