Recently-returned Favre Leuba clearly has its sights set on greatness, with new CEO Patrik Hoffmann articulating a clear path to victory for the historic brand. The relaunch plan kicked off three distinct collections, each one defined not only by a unique look and feel but also distinct calibres. We’ve already looked at the 70s-inspired sporty Chief line with its integrated bracelet, but today, we’re going to venture into the utilitarian tool chronograph that is the Favre Leuba Sea Sky Chronograph.

Inspired by the big personality of 1970s watches, the Sea Sky Chronograph is the sort of casual sports watch that never goes out of style. The current iteration of the watch is in a well-sized 40mm case in 316L steel, with a sophisticated mix of brushed and polished finishes. The case is depth-rated to 100m, and the double domed sapphire crystal is a nice nod to the vintage aesthetics of the watch, while also showing off the dial in the greatest possible light. Speaking of dials, there are three flavours at launch: blue, black or sunburst brown. No matter which colour you prefer, the three white subdials add some contrast, and the broad arrow-style hands and baton markers are all generously filled with luminous material for legibility in any condition.

The ‘Sea’ part of the Sea Sky Chronograph isn’t limited to the solid water-resistance, but also to the unidirectional bezel, with a ceramic insert graduated with countdown minutes. Though if you do plan on getting the watch wet, we’d suggest swapping out the finely grained leather strap for something more water-resistant, which shouldn’t be too much of an issue thanks to the quick change system.

As for the chronograph part of the equation, well, the dial offers not one but two chronograph scales in addition to the usual stop, start, and reset functionality. There’s a tachymeter (used for working out average speed over a fixed distance) and a telemeter scale (used for determining distance from sound), both historically used for artillery but these days play the role of a cool party trick in a lightning storm.

All this is well and good, but it’s important that you can trust what’s under the hood. Well, that’s not an issue, thanks to the La Joux-Perret L112 chronograph. A modernised version of the venerable 7750 design, nicely decorated with circular graining, Geneva stripes and sunburst patterns, along with a gold-plated rotor for that final flourish — all visible through the caseback.

Everything about this watch is what you’d want from a charming, nostalgia-fuelled casual sports chronograph. The design notes are sensitive to the past but updated where it matters — like the ceramic bezel, sapphire glass and water resistance. It’s an attractive option and a well-priced one with its CHF4,500 price point. Add the undeniable pedigree of the Favre Leuba name, and the Sea Sky Chronograph is a contender.

Find out more about Favre Leuba here.