Glashütte Original Launches Heritage-Inspired Senator Chronograph Collection
Glashütte Original Honors Centennial of Wristwatch Chronograph Development
One hundred years after the Saxon town's transition from pocket watches to wristwatches, Glashütte Original has unveiled two new chronographs that trace their lineage directly to that pivotal era in German horological history. The Senator Chronograph and Senator Chronograph Navigator draw inspiration from different chapters of Glashütte's watchmaking heritage while incorporating modern in-house technology.
Historical Roots: From UROFA Caliber 59 to Modern Caliber 37-24
The story begins in the early 1940s, when UROFA was commissioned to develop a chronograph specifically for pilots. The resulting UROFA Caliber 59, known as the "Flieger Chronograph," became the first modern wristwatch chronograph produced in Glashütte. Its flyback function — allowing the chronograph to be reset and immediately restarted with a single operation — was developed for the practical requirements of military pilots.
More than eight decades later, that flyback functionality provides a direct technical link to the new Senator Chronographs. Both are powered by Glashütte Original's automatic Caliber 37-24, a modern integrated column-wheel chronograph movement measuring 34.2mm in diameter and just 8mm thick.
| Specification | Glashütte Original Caliber 37-24 |
|---|---|
| Type | Automatic integrated column-wheel chronograph |
| Diameter | 34.2mm |
| Thickness | 8mm |
| Frequency | 28,800 vph (4 Hz) |
| Power Reserve | 70 hours |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, running seconds, 30-minute counter, Panorama Date, flyback |
| Balance Spring | Silicon |
| Regulation | Swan-neck fine adjustment |
Two Distinct Design Languages
Despite sharing identical 41mm stainless steel cases measuring 12.9mm thick, the two watches offer distinctly different personalities:
- Senator Chronograph Navigator: Inspired by 1940s pilot's watches, featuring a matte black dial with large Arabic numeral appliqués filled with Super-LumiNova, luminous hour markers, and a white minute track. The large cone-shaped crown and mushroom-shaped chronograph pushers complete the vintage aviation aesthetic.
- Senator Chronograph: Drawing from late 19th and early 20th century observation watches, with a silver-white grainé finish dial, solid gold Roman numeral appliqués with blue coating, and blued steel hands. A white gold frame surrounds the Panorama Date.
Strap Innovation
For the first time, Glashütte Original has developed a quick-change system for the folding clasp, allowing it to be transferred between compatible straps without tools. Both models are available with three strap options, and all feature quick-change systems for tool-free changes.
Pricing & Availability
| Model | Leather/Synthetic Strap | Steel Bracelet |
|---|---|---|
| Senator Chronograph | $16,100 USD | $17,100 USD |
| Senator Chronograph Navigator | $16,100 USD | $17,100 USD |
Both models are available worldwide through Glashütte Original boutiques and authorized retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Caliber 37-24 special?
The Caliber 37-24 is a fully integrated column-wheel chronograph with flyback function, silicon balance spring, and Glashütte Original's signature swan-neck fine adjustment. It provides 70 hours of power reserve and features traditional Glashütte finishing including beveled edges, polished steel components, and blued screws.
How do the Navigator and standard Chronograph differ?
The Navigator features a matte black pilot's watch-inspired dial with luminous Arabic numerals, while the standard Chronograph has a silver-white grainé dial with blue Roman numerals. Both share the same 41mm case and Caliber 37-24 movement.
Are these watches limited editions?
No, both the Senator Chronograph and Senator Chronograph Navigator are part of the permanent collection and are not limited editions.
Related Reading
Explore our complete watch collections or learn more about luxury chronograph watches.
Sources: aBlogtoWatch, Hodinkee (August 31, 2026)