First Look: The Olympus Watch Co. Galante Chronograph

Olympus Watch Co. is in no way affiliated with Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.

by Michael Satterfield – 06/01/2021

A lot of unique watches come through the office, but every once and a while a new watch catches my attention for its attention to detail, thoughtful design, and fun factor. The latest limited edition watch from Olympus Watch Co. is launching on Kickstarter on July 15th.

The Olympus Watch Co. Galante Chronograph is inspired by the Lamborghini Gallardo with many of the watch’s design elements reflecting the exotic Italian supercar and each watch incorporates recycled parts from an actual Lamborghini Gallardo. Under the sapphire crystal caseback, behind the outline of a Gallardo wheel, is a fragment from a salvaged 2012 Lamborghini.

The caseback also features the VIN number from the car that the part was sourced from, each salvaged piece is slightly different so no two watches will be exactly alike. The sample watch I am testing is the Argento version, which features a 36mm black sunburst dial and a polished case, there will be four options available when the watch launched including the Giallo, Rosso, and Marino. I will break down the colorway options below.

The specs on the watch are respectable, a Swiss Ronda chronograph movement, high-quality sapphire crystal, the dynamic subdials add more movement and interest to the Daytona-like face. Hands and hour markers feature a bright lume. The case itself is stainless steel and is water-resistant up to 50 meters. Lug to lug it is 48 mm which wears nicely on the wrist and the genuine leather strap features a quick-release butterfly clasp.

Unlike many smaller watch brands that use Swiss movements, each Galante Chronograph is hand-assembled by a small boutique watchmaker in Jura Mountains of Switzerland. The workshop is certified by the Swiss Watch Industry Federation, meaning each watch is built to an exacting standard often not seen with startup watch brands.

Specifications:

Case Diameter: 48 mm
Dial Diameter: 36 mm
Case: 316L Stainless Steel
Movement: Swiss Ronda 5030.D Quartz Chronograph
Strap: Leather with Quick Release

Colors:

Offered in four colorways inspired by the palette of the 2012 Lamborghini the Galante Chronograph is a handsome watch for sure, I think the blue and orange of the Marino is my personal favorite. Just 400 of each color will be released so keep that in mind if you do plan on purchasing one, you might want to get in early to secure your preferred color.

The pre-production sample I have been wearing for the last week is the Argento model, the watch has a nice weight to it, and it feels nice on the wrist. I think an established watch to compare it to is the TAG Heuer Formula 1 Quartz Chronograph, a watch that is closer to $1,500 and is powered by a very similar Swiss movement. The Olympus watch has the additional novelty of incorporating the Lamborghini elements into a numbered limited edition watch. I know for many watch and automotive enthusiasts, the story behind the watch they wear is a big part of the appeal.

Olympus Watch Co. is based out of Houston, here in my home state of Texas and their small team has done a wonderful job in creating a unique watch in a very crowded space. If you are a fan of great watches or Italian supercars, you should be sure to check out the Galante Chronograph when it launches on July 15th.

The MSRP for this watch is $1,000, but the first 100 supporters on Kickstarter will get their watch for 55% off, bringing the price down to just $449. Plus a percentage of every sale goes to support Habitat 4 Humanity in Houston.

To sign up for updates or learn more visit olympuswatches.co.

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