Glashütte Original Senator Chronograph & Navigator: Heritage Revived
Glashütte Original Revives Chronograph Heritage with Two New Senator Models
Glashütte Original has unveiled two new chronographs that celebrate a century of Saxon watchmaking history. The Senator Chronograph and Senator Chronograph Navigator draw inspiration from the brand's pioneering spirit in the 1920s, when Glashütte's watchmakers transitioned from pocket watches to wristwatches.
Historical Significance
In the 1920s, UROFA and UFAG were established in Glashütte with Dr. Ernst Kurtz leading the development of wristwatches. The resulting UROFA Caliber 58, nicknamed the "Raumnutzwerk" (space-efficient movement), became instrumental in establishing Glashütte in the growing wristwatch market. This foundation led to the UROFA Caliber 59 in the early 1940s, Glashütte's first modern wristwatch chronograph designed for pilots.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Senator Chronograph | Senator Chronograph Navigator |
|---|---|---|
| Dial Color | Silver-white grainé | Matte black |
| Indices | Gold Roman numerals | Arabic numerals with Super-LumiNova |
| Case | 41mm stainless steel | 41mm stainless steel |
| Thickness | 12.9mm | 12.9mm |
| Movement | Caliber 37-24 Automatic | |
| Power Reserve | 70 Hours | |
| Complications | Flyback Chronograph, Panorama Date | |
| Water Resistance | 50m | |
| Price (Leather) | $16,100 | $16,100 |
| Price (Bracelet) | $17,100 | $17,100 |
Modern Movement with Heritage DNA
Both watches are powered by Glashütte Original's in-house Caliber 37-24, an integrated column-wheel chronograph measuring 34.2mm in diameter and just 8mm thick. The movement features a flyback function that allows the chronograph to be stopped, reset, and immediately restarted with a single press. Like the historic Caliber 59, it includes silicon balance spring technology for enhanced magnetic field resistance.
Design Philosophy
The Senator Chronograph Navigator draws inspiration from 1940s pilot's watches, featuring large Arabic numerals filled with Super-LumiNova, a matte black dial, and a large cone-shaped crown designed for easy grip. The Senator Chronograph looks further back to observation watches from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a silver-white grainé dial and gold Roman numerals.
Innovative Features
- First quick-change system for folding clasps without tools
- Silicon balance spring for magnetic field resistance
- 21k gold oscillating weight with double-G logo
- Swan-neck fine adjustment for precise regulation
- Panorama Date at 6 o'clock position
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flyback chronograph function?
The flyback function allows the chronograph to be stopped, reset to zero, and immediately restarted with a single press of the pusher. This feature was originally developed for pilots who needed to time consecutive events quickly.
How do the two models differ?
The Navigator model is pilot-inspired with luminous Arabic numerals and a black dial, while the Senator Chronograph features a classic silver-white grainé dial with Roman numerals for a more dressy appearance. Both share the same movement and case architecture.
What makes Glashütte Original's finishing special?
The Caliber 37-24 features traditional Glashütte finishing including beveled edges, polished steel components, blued screws, three-quarter plate with Glashütte stripes, and a skeletonized rotor with 21k gold weight. The swan-neck fine adjustment is a signature Glashütte feature.
According to aBlogtoWatch, these new chronographs represent a perfect blend of Glashütte's historical expertise with modern watchmaking technology. The Senator Chronograph and Navigator are available worldwide through Glashütte Original boutiques and authorized retailers.
Learn more about German watchmaking traditions or explore our comprehensive chronograph buying guide.