Chronoswiss Introduces Natural Stone Dials for First Time in Small Second Collection

German Jasper and Swiss Serpentine Stones Bring Millions of Years of Geological History

Chronoswiss has expanded its Small Second collection with two stunning new models featuring natural stone dials – marking the Munich-based brand's first foray into one of watchmaking's most significant trends of recent years. The Small Second Jasper and Small Second Serpentine each offer a unique connection to geological history.

The Stones: A Tale of Two Continents

The choice of stones is deeply symbolic, representing both Chronoswiss's German heritage and its current Swiss home. The Jasper originates from Germany, nodding to the brand's Munich birthplace where master watchmaker Gerd Rüdiger Lang founded the company in 1983. The Serpentine comes from the region surrounding Zermatt and the Matterhorn in Switzerland, where Chronoswiss is now based.

Geological Significance

The Serpentine stone carries particularly dramatic origins. Once part of an ancient ocean floor, this stone was pushed upward during continental collision to become part of the Alpine mountain range. Its rich green surface displays intricate patterns that give it its name – derived from the Latin word for serpent.

The Jasper offers a more understated aesthetic with warm beige, brown, and ivory formations that shift across each dial like a desert landscape. Both stones ensure every watch produced is unique, as no two cuts of natural stone are identical.

Technical Specifications

Both models measure 40mm with an 11.5mm profile – slim, elegant, and true to the Small Second's clean design philosophy. The cases differ strategically: the Jasper features a pure stainless steel construction, while the Serpentine utilizes a two-tone combination of stainless steel and 18K red gold that adds warmth to complement the vivid green stone.

Movement Details

• Calibre: In-house C.6000 automatic movement
• Power Reserve: 55 hours
• Finishing: Geneva-striped bridges with skeletonised tungsten rotor
• Display: Hand-guilloché small seconds subdial at 9 o'clock
• Case Back: Sapphire crystal exhibition case back

Stone Dials: A Growing Trend

Chronoswiss's entry into natural stone dials follows a trend that has gained significant momentum in recent years. From meteorite dials to malachite and lapis lazuli, watchmakers are increasingly turning to geological materials to create timepieces that connect wearers to Earth's natural history.

The deliberate positioning of the small seconds subdial at 9 o'clock ensures the stone dial remains the visual centerpiece, demonstrating Chronoswiss's understanding of how to balance traditional watchmaking with contemporary design trends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes Serpentine stone special?

A: Serpentine originates from the ancient ocean floor near Zermatt, Switzerland. It was pushed upward during continental collision to become part of the Alps, giving each piece millions of years of geological history with unique green patterns derived from the Latin word for serpent.

Q: Why are only 50 pieces of each model being produced?

A: The limited production run of 50 pieces per model reflects both the rarity of the natural stone materials and the handcrafted nature of working with genuine geological specimens, ensuring each watch is truly unique.

Q: What is the price difference between the two models?

A: The Small Second Serpentine is priced at CHF 16,900, while the Small Second Jasper is priced at CHF 11,500. The price difference reflects the Serpentine's two-tone case construction combining stainless steel with 18K red gold.

Sources: Chronoswiss Official Press Release, WatchPro August 2026, Monochrome Watches Industry Reports

Discover more about independent watchmaking in our Independent Watchmakers guide or explore the latest natural stone dial watches trend.