Style -- 1 day ago
Earlier this summer, we drew our readers towards one of the most envelope-pushing watch labels that’s appeared on our radar in recent years: CODE41, a maker who goes against horological convention as it actively seeks external advice – from its community of supporters – on what materials, aesthetic details and functions should be incorporated into each piece of wrist armour.
Founded in 2016 by Claudio D’Amore – a designer whose resumé includes Montblanc and Tag Heuer – the venture is often viewed as more of a community project than a watch house in the traditional sense, and the last CODE41 product we profiled was the ANOMALY Evolution Edition 2, a timepiece with roots in the pandemic and whose conception was made possible by the support of brand enthusiasts at every step of development.
Rather notable of late is the new-edition NB24, the label’s most emblematic chronograph. The original model – whose moniker takes its cues from race driver and CODE41 ambassador Nigel Bailly, who fulfilled a lifelong dream when he competed at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, in 2021 – was released two years ago as a Creator Edition, and, during its pre-orders phase, no fewer than 1,380 pieces were sold within weeks of launch, CODE41’s quickest sell-out to date.
Defining this model is a bevy of high-end components, such as its case in AeroCarbon – a material known for its incredibly resistant, high-density properties – and grade-5 titanium, which not only facilitates fine finishing, but is renowned for being twice as hardy as steel.
A CODE41-exclusive Swiss manufacture movement powers the piece and is modelled around the famed Valjoux 7750 – reputed for being both reliable and robust – but incorporates several differences: the counters, for example, have been moved, and the bridges redesigned.
Further detailing includes the fact that all components, bar the jewels and barrel spring, have been made in-house; there’s a power reserve of 48 hours and a frequency of 28,800 turns per hour; and it features an Incabloc shock protection system.
Moreover, a dial-side peripheral oscillating weight – an extremely rare feature used by only a small selection of labels – has been added, and though this detail is already incorporated in CODE41’s X41, for the NB24, it is made into a visible feature.
Each model also comes with a wide range of interchangeable straps.
For the latest iteration, which has a diameter of 42.7mm and a weight of 90g, the CODE41 community has chosen a new orange dial to be incorporated, as well as the addition of a Stratom case, which was first seen in the T360 Tourbillon and is known for its well-defined lugs; chambered, layered build; and sporty silhouette.
Pre-orders for the NB24 Stratom are available from 20 September, 2023 to 18 October, 2023, and will be limited to 200 pieces. Each is priced at £6,900, and delivery dates are scheduled for summer 2024.
Want more from CODE41? Read about its ANOMALY Evolution Edition 2…
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