H. Moser and Massena LAB are two brands known for their collaborative efforts, and this month they are coming together for the first time to bring us a new Endeavour Chronograph Compax. The watch captures old world charm in a meticulously finished package that taps into the strengths of both parties involved here. This is a design inspired by mid-20th century H. Moser creations, and is the first appearance of a chronograph complication within the Endeavor collection. There are plenty of well crafted details to enjoy here, but, in typical H. Moser fashion, the blue fume dial that plays host to everything gives this watch an immediate wow factor.
When it comes to collaborations involving Massena LAB, there’s often a distinct effort to play in mid-century styles brought into modernity. We’ve seen this MO play out in collaborations with Albishorn and Raúl Pagès, as well as their own Archetype creations. Understanding that places this new creation with H. Moser into context in what feels like a very organic creation between the two, and the result is quite stunning in presence. It feels like a steampunk-ish love letter to 1940s chronographs.
The steel case measures 41mm in diameter, but the dial is focused into a much smaller area than you might expect given the size thanks to the old-school tachymeter scale which wraps around the perimeter of the dial twice to allow for a more granular measurement of speed over a given distance. Further compounding this effect are the relatively small sub-dials set at 3 o’clock (running seconds), and 9 o’clock (45 minute totalizer). Off white lume defines the features of the dial, and fills the leaf shaped hands, all of which is set upon a funky blue fume dial that somehow pairs perfectly with the design as a whole.
Inside we find the HMC 220 manufacture automatic movement with a Dubois Dépraz chronograph module that’s been added. The movement is visible through an exhibition caseback and offers a handsome level of finishing as we’ve come to expect from the brand. H. Moser does not (yet) make their own integrated chronograph movement, and have used AgenGraphe based calibers in other collections, and the use of a Dubois Dépraz module here keeps the price in far more approachable territory, though this one is still far from inexpensive.
Just 100 examples of the H. Moser x Massena LAB Endeavour Chronograph will be produced, each priced at $27,600. The watch can be pre-ordered from either brand with a deposit required to hold a build slot. H. Moser / Massena LAB