August 17 2026

Nivada Grenchen Autochron Orange Revives A Distinctive 1970s Look

MRSTATELESS Uncategorized 2026, Chronograph 0

Nivada Grenchen brings its motorsport-inspired chronograph back with a new interpretation of the Autochron Automatic, combining a distinctly 1970s design with a vivid orange colour scheme and a proven automatic chronograph movement. The model follows the brand’s recent exploration of historically inspired designs while introducing a more colourful and contemporary execution.

Compact Case, Robust Construction

The Autochron Automatic measures 38 mm in diameter, making it relatively compact for a mechanical chronograph. Its thickness is 15.20 mm including the crystal. The stainless steel case combines brushed surfaces with polished bevels, giving the watch a contrasting finish that reinforces its vintage character.

A black-coated aluminium unidirectional bezel surrounds the dial. It features 120 clicks and a dual scale printed in white, with a beige luminous pip at the zero position. The case houses a knurled crown at 3 o’clock flanked by two pushers.

Despite its vintage-inspired proportions and styling, the Autochron is designed for modern everyday use, offering 200 metres of water resistance.

A Distinctive Orange and Black Dial

The dial is where the Autochron makes its strongest visual statement. Its matte black surface has a fine grain intended to evoke the appearance of asphalt, reinforcing the watch’s connection with motorsport.

A black tachymeter scale sits around the perimeter, followed by a striking orange minute track. Two recessed beige sub-dials provide the chronograph indications, with their snailed surfaces adding another layer of texture.

The 1970s influence is particularly evident in the asymmetrical arrangement of the displays, typography and hand shapes. Applied hour markers and the central timekeeping hands feature Super-LumiNova, while the chronograph seconds hand is finished in vivid orange, matching the minute ring and giving the dial a strong visual focal point.

The watch also includes a date display positioned at 3 o’clock, adding a practical everyday function alongside the chronograph.

ETA/Valjoux 7750 Power

Inside the Autochron Automatic is the well-established ETA/Valjoux 7750 automatic chronograph movement. The cam-operated calibre operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, or 4Hz, allowing the chronograph seconds hand to advance in eight increments per second.

It provides approximately 42 hours of power reserve and drives the hours, minutes, running seconds, chronograph functions and date indication. A solid caseback conceals the movement, keeping the exterior focused on the watch’s period-inspired aesthetic.

Three Strap and Bracelet Options

Nivada Grenchen offers the Autochron Automatic with a choice of configurations. The black racing-style leather strap uses perforations to reinforce the motorsport theme, while a stainless steel three-link bracelet provides a more versatile alternative.

The bracelet combines narrow central links with a folding clasp. An orange FKM rubber Tropic-style strap is also available, offering a sportier option that complements the watch’s bright accents.

The Autochron Automatic is priced at € 2,395 on the leather strap and € 2,595 with the stainless steel bracelet.

With its 38 mm case, 200m water resistance, automatic chronograph movement and unmistakable orange-and-black colour palette, the Autochron Automatic offers a modern interpretation of the bold, functional chronographs associated with the 1970s.