MIH Watch Annual Calendar Chronograph Review

This is one that I've wanted ever since it was introduced back in 2005, thanks in no small part to Magnus' terrific coverage of its development and unveiling; Daniel's ringing endorsements didn't hurt much, either. Now that I have it on my wrist, all I can do wonder is why it took seven years for me to close this deal.

Good question, and one that I'm afraid has no answer, other than the typical WIS wanderings that take us on and off the path to true horological enlightenment. ;-)

The minimalist design complements my personal aesthetic perfectly, though I can understand how some might find it too spare; taste is always subjective. What isn't subjective, however -- at least IMO -- is the delightfully simple Oechslin-designed annual calendar mechanism that's a breeze to set and equally easy to read. In fact, when looking at how the heavyweights pull off this complication, with the date spread out all over the dial, one has to wonder why it took so long for someone to design it the way that we naturally read it. For instance, today is Friday, November 2nd, and that's exactly how it's displayed on my watch. Perfect. Don't forget to throw in the AM/PM indicator for good measure, too. The lightweight titanium case is comfortable on the wrist, the crown is appropriately grippy and I love the rubber strap (ordered the XL), which blends nicely with the matte black dial and muted gray tone of the case.

There are some who deride the vestigial 30 min chrono subdial on the back as an afterthought, and something that goes against the Bauhaus-inspired proceedings, but this was a big selling point for me, and not because I have a burning need to time things, but rather because it offers me a way to interact with the watch. The action of the monopusher is nice and crisp, and the ability to instantly hack the second hand is quite useful in practice. Had Gerber decided to drop this whimsical feature, I wouldn't have been half as interested in this watch.

So, are there any cons? Well, it is a bit on the thick side, which is to be expected when dealing with a 7750 base movement, but a few millimeters less wouldn't have been unwelcome (the design of the watch seems to amplify the height). Also, the second hand motion is a bit rough in spots, which, again, is often seen in 7750s (not always, but this isn't the first time I've noticed this behavior). Otherwise, it's a comfortable, highly legible, practical and purist-worthy watch at an entirely reasonable price, IMO, even with the recent increase.

Ever since I took delivery about a month ago it has been a constant companion, and indeed, I find myself reaching for it over other, more conventionally desirable pieces in my collection from the likes of AP, JLC, IWC, etc; as a daily-wearer it's hard to beat. During these trying times here in NYC (we're still without power/water/gas/phones downtown), it has been a reliable tool that always puts a smile on my face, and the good Lord knows I need a smile right now. I don't know, but there's something that's reassuring about the honesty and integrity of this watch, and I'm looking forward to leaning on it for a long time to come.



Regards,
Adam