INTRODUCING: The new Maurice Lacroix Pontos Chronograph 43mm models present a fresh option for daily wear
Dániel Dobai- The Maurice Lacroix Pontos Chronograph 43mm delivers an exciting casual watch
- Two new dial options are presented with the refresh
- An automatic Cal. ML112 chronograph movement powers the Pontos Chronograph line
When Maurice Lacroix is mentioned, most people think of the famous Aikon model. And for good reason: the Aikon is a surprisingly unique take on the steel sports watch buzz and delivered at a stellar price. However, the brand knows that if they only focus on one collection, Maurice Lacroix will mean nothing but the Aikon. Plus, there are also people who don’t want a trendy sports watch, but rather an everyday piece. This is where the Pontos collection comes in. It’s the middle ground between the sporty Aikon and the more elegant Eliros collection, making for a go-anywhere, do-anything watch that can easily serve as a one-piece collection.
The Pontos collection consists of the regular Chronograph 43mm and the sportier Pontos S models. This time, the Chronograph 43mm collection gets a small update. It is indeed small, as we are only talking about two new dial colours, both from the darker end of the spectrum. Surprisingly, a black dial wasn’t an option up until now. Black is by far the most versatile colour of all; it has the most GADA potential.
The dial is minimalist enough with not so much going on to be worn in more elegant situations, while the chronograph function adds a casual side to the piece as well. The other new dial variant is a gun-metal grey with rose-gold accents. Both the slightly skeletonized hands and the Arabic numerals are in rose gold, making the overall feel much classier. Some white markings remain on the sub-dials and in the date window above 6 o’clock. Normally I don’t like the idea of date windows on chronographs, but in this case, it looks well thought out as opposed to other watches where the date feels like an afterthought. Both dials have a sun-ray effect and snailed sub-dials.
The case remains untouched compared to all other Pontos Chronograph 43mm models. At first glance, this diameter may seem too large, but with 15 millimetres of thickness, it was necessary. Otherwise, the watch would look and feel like a filet mignon on the wrist.
Classically, the chronograph pushers are on the same side as the crown and both have been given a little flair to make the watch stand out. The pushers follow the shape of the lugs, while the crown has an interesting turbine look. Brushed and polished finishes alternate. The sides of the case and the fixed bezel are polished, while the sides of the lugs are brushed. The stepped lugs are tastefully designed and feature a distinct curve. Between the lugs is either a leather strap or a stainless-steel bracelet. The latter is a mainly brushed three-link number. The centre links are slightly more angular than the outer ones and have some polished details. With 100 metres of water resistance it can be easily taken for a swim with the bracelet.
Responsible for the thick case is the Cal. ML112 automatic chronograph movement. It is the trusty ETA Valjoux 7750 with some minor changes. It runs on 4Hz and has a 42-hour power reserve. All can be observed through the exhibition caseback that reveals a movement decorated with Geneva stripes, circular graining, and a Maurice Lacroix-signed rotor.
Maurice Lacroix Pontos Chronograph 43mm pricing and availability:
The Maurice Lacroix Pontos Chronograph 43mm is available now as a regular-production model. Price: US$3,200 (leather strap), US$3,250 (bracelet)
| Brand | Maurice Lacroix |
| Model | Pontos Chronograph 43mm |
| Reference Number | PT6388-SS001-320-2 (black dial), T6388-SS001-321-2 (grey dial) |
| Case Dimensions | 43mm (D) x 15mm (T) |
| Case Material | Stainless steel |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters |
| Dial | Sunburst with snailed sub-dials |
| Crystal | Sapphire |
| Strap | Leather or three-link stainless steel bracelet |
| Movement | ML112, Valjoux 7750 base |
| Power Reserve | 42 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph |
| Availability | Now |
| Price | US$3,200 (leather) US$3,250 (bracelet) |