The 2023 Fratello × Nivada Grenchen Racing Chronograph is a 38 mm, hand-wound racing chronograph that combines inspiration from two vintage Nivada watches: the Chronosport case and the dial of a separate Racing chronograph. It was presented as a new collaborative model, not a direct reissue of one specific vintage watch. Nivada’s retrospective archive lists the collaboration as a limited edition of 150 pieces.
How the collaboration draws on two vintage watches
Fratello announced the watch on March 13, 2023, describing the design as a blend: the case takes inspiration from the vintage Nivada Chronosport, while the dial looks to a different vintage Nivada model, the Racing chronograph. The result was introduced as a new model line rather than a direct re-edition.
The collaboration replaced the original red dial accents with Fratello orange and added a steel tachymeter bezel, which Fratello said was absent from the original Chronosport case. Fratello author Balazs Ferenczi described the goal as: “The aim was to keep the vintage vibe while creating a modern-looking chronograph.” Fratello’s launch announcement gives the design background; Nivada’s retrospective collaborations archive lists the project under 2023 as a 1970s-inspired racing chronograph collaboration.
Five dial options
The collaboration was offered with five dial choices: black, panda, reverse panda, white, and tropical brown. Each uses orange accents and Super-LumiNova. These are dial variants; Fratello’s published specifications do not indicate differences in movement or other hardware among them.
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- Built on Bulova’s vibrant history in motorsport – from soap box derbies to the upper echelons of auto racing – the new men’s Racer chronograph watch is fine-tuned and designed for performance. The contoured black IP stainless steel case features a unique design evoking the aerodynamic curves of the world’s fastest automobiles.
- A two-tone orange and black tachymeter ring offers further functionality, while pronounced pushers provide a distinctively automotive aesthetic. The black 5-hand chronograph dial features an orange and white racing pattern chapter ring, with a date display at 6 o’clock and black subdials displaying the chronograph minutes and the 24-hour time
- A bold orange chronograph seconds hand ensures optimal legibility no matter the speed. The dial is appointed with applied silver-tone markers and matching beveled hands, all filled with a super-luminous material for low-light visibility.
- The watch is paired with a perforated black leather racing-style strap with a pin buckle closure.
- Whether gripping the wheel around the bend at the track or on your daily commute, the Bulova men’s Racer chronograph is a stylish expression of racing history and a passion for speed.
| Dial option | Appearance |
|---|---|
| Black | Black dial |
| Panda | Light dial with dark contrasting subdials |
| Reverse panda | Dark dial with light contrasting subdials |
| White | White dial |
| Tropical brown | Brown dial |
The “panda” and “reverse panda” labels describe the contrast between the dial and chronograph subdials; they are not separate movement or case configurations. Fratello’s announcement and general-release article identify all five options and the shared technical details.
Specifications
These are the specifications Fratello published for the collaboration in its March 2023 announcement and June 2023 general-release article.
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- VK63 MECHA-QUARTZ CHRONOGRAPH: The WD1863 uses a VK63 mecha-quartz movement with a central 1/5-second chronograph hand, 60-minute counter, running small seconds and a 24-hour display. The pushers control start, stop and reset, combining quartz accuracy with crisp mechanical-style chronograph action for practical elapsed-time measurement.
- BUBBLE SAPPHIRE CRYSTAL & ALUMINUM BEZEL: The raised bubble-style sapphire crystal adds depth above the dial, while a high-clear inner AR coating helps reduce reflections. A 316L stainless steel case and bracelet provide a solid everyday build, and the fixed aluminum bezel creates a defined frame around the vintage chronograph display.
- SUPER BGW-9 BLUE LUME: BGW-9 super luminous material is applied to the hands, hour markers and selected dial details. After exposure to light, these elements produce a blue glow that supports quick time reading in darker surroundings. Coverage follows the individual dial design and remains clearly arranged around the three-register chronograph display.
- 100M WATER RESISTANCE: The screw-down crown and screw-down case back support a 100M water-resistance rating for daily wear and suitable surface-water use. Always tighten the crown fully before contact with water, do not operate the chronograph pushers while the watch is wet or submerged, and avoid hot water, steam and diving. Water resistance should be checked periodically as seals age.
- COMPACT 39MM WRIST PROFILE: The WD1863 measures 39mm across the bezel, with a 41mm mid-case, 46mm lug-to-lug length, 12.9mm thickness including the raised crystal and 20mm lug width. These proportions balance the detail of a three-register chronograph with a wearable footprint. The 20mm bracelet remains proportionate to the case, while the raised crystal adds vintage depth to the compact design.
| Specification | Fratello × Nivada Grenchen Racing Chronograph |
|---|---|
| Case | 316L stainless steel; 38 mm diameter, 44.3 mm lug-to-lug, 13.75 mm thick |
| Lug width | 20 mm |
| Crystal | Double-domed sapphire with antireflective coating |
| Movement | Sellita SW510 M B, hand-wound; 28,800 vibrations per hour; 23 jewels |
| Stated power reserve | 63 hours |
| Functions | Time and 12-hour chronograph |
| Water resistance | 10 ATM / 100 m |
| Bracelet | 316L steel bullet bracelet, tapering from 20 mm to 16 mm; signed push-button deployant clasp |
| Caseback | Display back with flat sapphire and Fratello engraving |
| Warranty stated at launch | Two-year international warranty |
The 20 mm lug width is a useful measurement when considering a different strap, but it does not establish compatibility with every strap, end link, or bracelet attachment. Check the fit of the specific accessory.
Release history, edition size and historical prices
Fratello’s March 13, 2023 announcement scheduled a one-week presale for March 20–26: 50 watches in total, with 10 per dial, at €1,499 excluding VAT. It said a larger release would follow in June.
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- INSPIRED BY LA DOLCE VITA AND VINTAGE MOTORING CULTURE - The Retro Chrono Collection captures the effortless charm of classic Italian style, blending vintage racing influences with modern watchmaking. Created by Filippo Loreti, these chronographs are inspired by legendary cars, scooters, and the laid-back confidence of Mediterranean living.
- RETRO CHRONOGRAPH DESIGN WITH VINTAGE INSTRUMENT DETAILS - Featuring retro-inspired subdials modeled after classic automotive gauges, distinctive gradient dials, and a bold cushion-shaped case, the Retro Chrono Collection pays tribute to the golden age of motoring. The combination of nostalgic styling and contemporary execution creates a standout mens watch with timeless appeal.
- VK63 MECHAQUARTZ CHRONOGRAPH PERFORMANCE - Powered by the reliable VK63 MechaQuartz movement, the Retro Chrono delivers the smooth operation of a mechanical chronograph with the accuracy and convenience of quartz technology. This hybrid approach makes it an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking dependable chronograph watches for men.
- BUILT FOR STYLE, PERFORMANCE, AND EVERYDAY WEAR - With a 42mm stainless steel case, tachymeter scale, luminous hands and indexes, and 100M water resistance, the Retro Chrono is designed to perform as well as it looks. Whether paired with leather or rubber straps, it transitions seamlessly from weekend drives to everyday wear.
- A FILIPPO LORETI COLLECTION FOR LOVERS OF VINTAGE RACING STYLE - Combining automotive heritage, Italian-inspired aesthetics, and accessible luxury, the Retro Chrono Collection celebrates an era when style and performance went hand in hand. Among Filippo Loreti watches for men, it stands out as a distinctive chronograph collection for enthusiasts who appreciate classic design and modern reliability.
In its June 15, 2023 general-release announcement, Fratello said the presale had sold out and announced an additional batch of 200 watches, 40 per dial. The historical launch price for that batch was €1,875 excluding VAT, with orders scheduled to open June 22, 2023.
Nivada’s retrospective archive records the collaboration as a 150-piece limited edition. That archive total differs from the two quantities described in Fratello’s launch announcements; the announcements do not account for every production or allocation detail. The figures above are historical release claims, not evidence of current stock or market value.
Rank #4
- As eye-catching men watches: Featuring an ice-blue racing-style dial with contrasting colors, paired with red and gold chronograph pushers, this watch breaks the dullness of traditional timepieces and creates a highly recognizable statement piece that elevates any outfit.
- As mens watches that balance both texture and practicality: featuring a 316L stainless steel case and scratch-resistant mineral glass crystal, along with a soft-textured leather strap, they are durable and reliable for daily wear, ensuring stable and accurate timekeeping.
- This watch with CILOA is designed to define your unique style: Inspired by retro racing aesthetics, it embraces bold color contrasts and breaks free from generic men’s watch designs, giving you a one-of-a-kind look that stands out from the crowd.
- As versatile watches for men: Equipped with chronograph and date display functions, it meets both daily commuting timing needs and sports scenario timing requirements, perfectly balancing stylish design with practical functionality.
- With a sophisticated aesthetic comparable to luxury watches men: It showcases meticulous craftsmanship in every detail, from the polished case and stitched strap to the precise dial markers, delivering high-end luxury quality at an accessible price point.
Current availability and avoiding model confusion
The cited launch announcements and Nivada archive do not establish whether the collaboration is currently available or what it costs today. Neither 2023 launch price should be treated as a current offer or resale valuation.
Take care not to confuse this collaboration with Nivada’s generic/current Chronograph specification page. That page describes a different configuration, including an automatic Valjoux-7750-ETA movement, a date, 20 ATM water resistance, and a 48-hour reserve. Those details are not the Fratello collaboration’s specifications. See Nivada’s generic Chronograph specifications separately from the collaboration details published by Fratello.
Quick Recap
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- Vintage racing layout: A high-contrast two-register dial, tachymeter-style outer scale, and orange central chronograph hand give the ML23 a clean motorsport character that works from casual weekends to smarter everyday outfits
- Smooth-sweep chronograph: The 6S21 Japanese quartz movement delivers a fluid central chronograph seconds motion with reliable everyday timing, while the two-register layout avoids an unnecessary 24-hour subdial for a clearer view
- Balanced 40 mm fit: A 40 mm case, 48 mm lug-to-lug length, and 12.7 mm overall thickness create noticeable wrist presence without the bulk of many oversized chronographs; the top-grain cowhide strap tapers from 20 mm to 18 mm for a cleaner fit
- Sapphire clarity and blue lume: A domed sapphire crystal with an inner anti-reflective coating keeps the dial clear in changing light, while BGW9 lume on the hands and markers adds a blue glow for easier low-light reading
- 100 m everyday water resistance: A screw-down crown supports 100 m water resistance for rain, hand washing, and swimming; keep the crown secured and avoid hot water, baths, showers, and steam to help protect the seals
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
