They’re affordably priced, and I just can’t get enough of their design, finishing, and that unique, rugged vibe… I absolutely love “Nivada Grenchen” watches. Hmm, how many have I bought so far?? Eight?? My collection has really grown in just a few years (sweat).
It might be because I tend to get really fixated on things once I like them, but the “ANTARCTIC” line from Dress Line covers everything from 1,000 meters (100 atmospheres!!)water-resistant “DEPTHMASTER”—the appeal of their extensive lineup is just too powerful.It’s a “bottomless swamp” that’s hard to escape once you’ve discovered it… That’s the watch brand “Nevada Glänchen” (*´ω｀*)
The History of Nivada Grenchen
By the way, to be honest, what kind of impression do you, our readers, have of the brand “Nivada Grenchen”?
Incidentally, while some theories trace the brand’s origins back to 1879, when the family was making watches on a small scale, the official founding date is set as 1926, with the “establishment of Glashütte” in Switzerland.In other words, even if we count from the shorter end of the spectrum, the “history of the Nivada Glenchen brand” will happily reach its “100th anniversary” this year, 2026. In fact, it is an undisputed, venerable veteran in the industry.
Although Nevada Glänchen had achieved one success after another in the mass production of various high-quality practical watches, the brand faced a dispute with Movado in the 1930s over the similarity of their brand names.In the United States, the company faced some growing pains, such as partnering with “Croton Watch Co.” and adopting the “Croton” name. Nevertheless, until the mechanical watch industry was thrown into turmoil by the quartz crisis, Nevada Glenchen was one of the world’s most recognizable brands.
The “Croton,” “Croton Nevada,” and “Croton Nevada Grenchen” models released in the United States during this period are all “watches manufactured by Nivada Grenchen.” When you come across one of these on the vintage market, be sure to take note of the twists and turns of its history.
Nivada Grenchen Showed a “Logical Comeback”
Following the Quartz Crisis in the 1980s, the trademark rights to Nevada Glenchen—which had rapidly declined—passed through several hands.In the context of watch culture, this amounted to a de facto “semi-dormant state.” In fact, it was not a situation that caught the attention of watch enthusiasts (incidentally, Croton, which had supported Nevada, met a similar fate).
While this is a common—and not particularly surprising—outcome for a mechanical watch brand in decline,it would have been far too great a shame to let it end that way, so Guillaume Raide, founder of “William L. 1985,” and Rémy Chabla of the “Montrichard Group” stepped in to “rescue” the “Nivada Glénchen” name.
Just hearing that Mr. Raide—known as “the entrepreneur who loves watches too much”—is involved gives me a tremendous sense of reassurance. Mr. Raide’s vision has always been clear, and he has never neglected the principle of “making good watches,” which comes before business considerations.
At present, “Nivada Glänchen” stands out for its approach of “recreating the brand’s history itself” by pursuing faithful reissues based on its past archives.It’s clear that the brand is striving to allow modern watch enthusiasts to “relive” the brand’s history itself, while taking care not to disappoint Nevada fans familiar with its past models.
These days, there are countless examples of brand revivals, but among them, I feel that the “revival of Nevada Glänchen” is guided by a clear intention and a consistent “storyline” (*´∀｀*)
Isn’t this a “zombie brand”??
Looking at overseas wristwatch forums, the general impression of the new “Nevada Glänchen” is that the reviews are “70% positive, 30% negative.” Many commenters say they’re quite satisfied considering the price, and the high level of authenticity compared to past models is impressing even longtime fans who remember the original.
On the other hand, some people have raised doubts, asking, “Isn’t this just a ‘zombie brand’ after all?” The fact that the brand markets itself on faithful reissues has backfired, leading to complaints that it is “merely conjuring up ghosts of the past (archives).”
I can understand why watch enthusiasts are skeptical of the recent trend of “revival through trademark acquisitions.” As for the opinion that it’s “nothing more than a reliance on nostalgia,” I do feel that’s a bit too harsh, though…
However, I don’t think that’s the crux of the matter. The argument that a brand—one that has been family-run and maintained a seamless, end-to-end operation throughout its history—possesses “supreme value” is certainly valid. But in reality, even if you were to order your descendants, “Take over the business!!,” they would likely have their own paths they wish to follow.
If that’s the case, it’s far more realistic and forward-looking to entrust the brand to a “savvy executive” who can respect its history and the fans who have supported it, and take that “first step toward a new chapter.”When it comes to reissues, we should distinguish between those that stem from a genuine love for past masterpieces and “easy reissues” that are merely a desperate attempt to run out of ideas.
To begin with, try counting the number of brands that have remained true to their original management philosophy and are still in business today. Just as national systems undergo changes, brands, too, cannot avoid their share of ups and downs. That is the “weight of 147 years of history.”
The “F77”: A Model That Divides Opinions
Today, I’d like to focus on the “F77,” the most luxurious sports model in the “Nevada Glenhen” lineup. As you can see, this model has, as expected, been the subject of heated debate on overseas forums on numerous occasions.
“Isn’t that a Royal Oak?!”
Well, that’s true, I guess (laughs). Actually, even among the “Royal Oak knockoff series” flooding the market, this design is quite a bold take on the original.
Since I used to own an older Royal Oak myself, I completely agree with the opinion that “That’s a Royal Oak!!” No matter the brand, if you place an octagonal bezel on a case integrated with the bracelet, it inevitably—almost unfairly—becomes a “Royal Oak.”
Even so, maybe I should have at least held back on the “screw-mounted bezel design” (sweat)
In today’s world, with its many strict restrictions, this would be unthinkable.However, when you consider the “unique context of the 1970s” in which the original “F77” model was released, along with the management philosophy of the “New Nevada Glashütte”—which is passionately dedicated to creating reissues that capture the spirit of that era—many aspects of this decision suddenly make perfect sense.
Reflecting on the “Era” in Which the Original Model Was Born
Given that this is the work of “Nivada Glänchen”—a brand that can hardly be described as anything other than “purely dedicated to reissues”—even the “F77,” which is often criticized for pandering to best-sellers, has a distinct “original model,” as mentioned earlier.
It was introduced in 1977. Virtually identical to the current model, it is what is known as a “Genta-style watch.” One glance at its appearance makes it clear that its design was influenced by the “Royal Oak,” the world’s first luxury sports watch, which debuted in 1972.
For example, if “Nivada Glenhen” were to release this “just now” out of the blue, that would be a real mess. It might be hard to blame them if they were criticized.
However, it’s a different story when it comes to reissues.Moreover, this was the 1970s—an era when every industry was promoting the philosophy of “follow the lead of what’s selling.” That’s precisely why a genius like Mr. Genta declared, “This won’t do!” and pushed forward with innovative designs, and that’s also why so many imitations emerged even amid the chaos of the 1970s.
“Imitate and Be Imitated”… This is a story from an era when such practices were virtually unrestricted and widely accepted. From the perspective of modern compliance standards, the 1970s were rife with problems, but it is precisely because of this free-spirited environment that wristwatch culture has endured to this day.
I wanted it, but I just couldn’t quite bring myself to take the plunge, and then…
Ever since the reissue was released and H°M’S” WatchStore began carrying it, I’d been desperate to get my hands on the “F77”—but the truth is, the “resentment” I mentioned in the paragraph above had been smoldering inside me for a surprisingly long time.
Come to think of it, the mere fact that I had been wearing a Royal Oak—however imperfectly—may have made me feel that way more than the average person would. It was only very recently that, in the conflict between fact and emotion, the fact prevailed.
Then, at the end of last year, the long-awaited opportunity to get my hands on the “F77” finally arrived. Now that I actually own it, I have to say… as a watch, it’s absolutely fantastic!! I was truly impressed all over again by just how well-crafted this watch is (*´∀｀*)
A Last Stand?? Select the “F77 CHRONO MECAQUARTZ”
Still, one last act of defiance… “I managed to avoid the three stitches” (lol)
The reason is, quite simply, that “a three-hand watch is too much like a Royal Oak.” So I bought the “F77 Chrono Mecaquartz,” which is equipped with the familiar “VK64” movement.
Compared to the Royal Oak chronograph—a three-counter “tri-compax”—the VK64’s F77 is a “bi-compax.”I believe this difference is the most significant factor of all. Of course, the fact that it’s “over 70,000 yen cheaper” than a mechanical three-hand model costing roughly 220,000 yen also gave me the push I needed, given my limited budget (lol).
What’s Different About the “MK2” Model??
Unusually, the “F77” model comes in “two lines” with slightly different designs. First is the “MK1,” which was the first to be reissued. This line was reissued based on the concept of embracing the “flavor” of the original model’s imperfections, and it prioritizes fidelity to the original.
The other “MK2” is a line that has been redesigned with just a touch of a “modern interpretation.“ While it may be slightly less faithful to the original, it surpasses the MK1 in terms of comfort on the wrist and ease of use.
I was completely won over by this “MK2 design.” Even though it might seem like they’re just reissuing old models, I was deeply impressed by the sincerity of “Nivada Glänchen” in making such subtle improvements in such a short period of time.The “F77 CHRONO MECAQUARTZ” I purchased is also based on this MK2 design. That’s why it’s incredibly comfortable to wear, and that comfort directly translates into its sleek, refined appearance (*´ω｀*)
The “close fit” with the wrist, enhanced by lowering the rug
Compared to the “MK1,” the “lugs” are significantly larger and slope downward toward the bottom. In fact, even though it’s just this small difference, the “slightly erratic feel” I experienced when using the MK1 was completely eliminated with the MK2—even though the MK2 is 1 millimeter wider than the 37-millimeter-wide MK1.
With “integrated bracelet cases,” which have limitations on strap and other bracelet options, there are some issues that can only be resolved through fundamental design changes like this. And the impact of this bold decision has been tremendous.
In fact, while the “MK1” and “MK2” are so similar in outline that they’re virtually indistinguishable, the feel of them on your wrist is “completely different.”
The MK2’s “Profile” with a Modern Twist
The bold decision to lower the lugs also played a major role in refining the design.Compared to the MK1, which aimed for a faithful reproduction of every detail to capture the spirit of the era, the MK2’s case sides have been sophisticatedly updated for a modern look, thereby elevating its level of elegance. I would like to actively commend the fact that it has simultaneously enhanced both the “functional aspect” of how it sits on the wrist and its “superior aesthetic appeal.”
And yet, they’ve gone and added “side holes in the lugs”—something even the MK1 didn’t have. It’s details like this, isn’t it? That’s what makes the “Nevada Glänchen” so clever (laughs).
Bezel, Case, Bracelet… The “Trinity Context” of the F77
There’s no doubt it’s in the Genta style, but you can still see “originality” here and there.
In particular, the presence of the “end piece” that connects the case to the bracelet creates a unique aesthetic for the Nevada Glänchen “F77.”Although the design features a now-common octagonal bezel—which could be described as “distinctive mediocrity”—it is this “end piece” that puts the brakes on that impression.
By serving as a starting point for “understanding the structure,” its industrial design provides the wearer with a wealth of information beyond the mere outline of a “Royal Oak-style luxury sports watch.”
Whether or not people can grasp the message behind this… I think that’s where opinions on the “F77’s design” tend to diverge.
“Bracelet” with a Beautiful Tapered Silhouette
Since this “bracelet” was created solely to evoke the “atmosphere of that era,” it requires no unnecessary embellishments. It is the kind of bracelet meant to be appreciated for one thing alone: the beauty of the tapered line that flows purposefully from the side of the case.
Ultimately, I think this is the bracelet you’ll “never get tired of wearing.” I’m not saying it’s impossible to swap it out for a different bracelet or strap, but basically, this is a watch that “only accepts its specially designed bracelet or strap.”For that reason, the design can’t be one that you’ll eventually tire of, nor can it be too delicate—one that looks bad just from a few minor scratches. This bracelet is just right for the “F77.”
Even so, details like the “end piece design,” which showcases its rugged construction, are a real treat for the eyes. I also think the “clasp”—which is, as always, beautifully crafted—complements the F77’s aesthetic perfectly.
41 mm and 38 mm: The MK2 Automatic Offers “Two Options”
By the way, the MK2 mechanical automatic model comes in two sizes: “41 mm” and “38 mm.” The Mecaquartz Chrono I recently acquired has a 38 mm case. As for the MK1, it’s currently available only in “37 mm” (a faithful reissue never strays from the original).
Since there were no large models in the MK1 lineup, I believe the transition from MK1 to MK2 was a response to consumer demand for “a slightly larger size.” That said, changing the size of a watch is a major undertaking, tantamount to “redesigning it from scratch.”Given that they went to the trouble of creating a 41-millimeter model despite this, it seems consumers’ desire for a “jumbo model” was quite strong.
So, judging by the official website, the larger size has changed the balance between the bezel and the dial, resulting in a design that’s quite intriguing. If the time ever comes when I buy a three-hand model, there’s a good chance I’ll go ahead and “choose the 41mm” (*´∀｀*)
The “F77 Dial” with Its Distinctive Emotional Appeal
The blue dial on the Mekaku Quartz Chronograph “F77” that I bought features a beautiful “woven” pattern that looks just like Okinawan tatami mats. I’m really glad it wasn’t that “chocolate-like blocky thing” (lol).
Without losing its vivid blue luster, the intricate surface texture creates a play of colors that captivates the eye. It’s absolutely beautiful. I could gaze at it forever and never get tired of it. If only I could let you all experience this “emotional depth” for yourselves.
The black dial features a “dark carbon texture.” Hmm… Now that I think about it, I probably would have been just as happy with a plain black dial. After all, the overall design is the kind that really suits a subdued black dial (*´ω｀*)
F77 Chrono Mecaquartz, featuring “MK1-style hands”
The basic design of the F77’s hands is the “bar hand” style with luminescence. It’s designed to complement the tall hour markers, creating a well-balanced look. To be honest, I’ve always thought, “There really isn’t a better combination for the F77 than this.”
However, incredibly cool “dauphine hands” appeared on the MK2 three-hand model. This threw me—who had been planning to get my hands on one—into quite a bit of confusion (sweat).
MK1 or MK2? A three-hand watch or a chronograph? …I’d been caught in a whirlwind of indecision like that for so long, and then this “new turning point” came along… and suddenly, I just couldn’t make up my mind anymore.
Of course, having more options to choose from is generally a good thing. However, when the “items you really want” are spread out, it makes it harder to take that final step toward a decision. So, after a series of twists and turns, I ended up purchasing the “F77 Chrono Mecaquartz” (*´∀｀*)
The MK2 Bi-Con Pack Chronograph, equipped with the VK Mekaku quartz movement, features “MK1-style hands.” Personally, I think this is a “brilliant choice.”Since the 37-millimeter case—the same width as the three-hand model—now incorporates additional visual elements typical of a chronograph, using bold dauphine hands might have resulted in a dial that felt a bit overwhelming.
“The Fusion of MK1 and MK2,” Born from a Commitment to Craftsmanship: F77 Chrono Mecaquartz
In other words, the “Mekaku Quartz Model” I purchased could be described as a watch that combines the best of both worlds: the faithfully reproduced “MK1” reissue and the “MK2,” which has been refined for improved usability.A branding consultant might warn, “Let’s not settle for something half-baked!!” but the “pure commitment to craftsmanship” shared by the current Nevada Glänchen, led by Mr. Raide, transcends such conventional wisdom.
If there’s an idea that makes the watch look cool, I wouldn’t even mind if it disrupted the overall cohesion. After all, this is a brand that has risen from the brink of death, so while building on its legacy, I hope it will explore a wide range of possibilities in this second “life” of the brand.
It’s true that the “F77” has sparked heated debate among watch enthusiasts. That said, in psychology, praise and criticism are considered “two sides of the same coin”—in other words, reactions with the same underlying structure.Just how “healthy” it is for a brand to be caught between these two extremes becomes clear when we look at other brands that have been on an upward trajectory recently. This is because criticism is the very soil that breeds “devoted followers.”
It has die-hard fans and some harsh critics… In short, “Nevada Glenhen” is currently in a healthy state as a brand (*´∀｀*)
Is the “F77” even a “luxury sports car” to begin with??
I’ve tried to put “the appeal of the F77” into words in my own way up to this point, but a “fundamental question” suddenly popped into my head. How should I put it… I started wondering if the F77 is actually a “luxury sports car” to begin with.
In terms of appearance, this is a watch that should be classified as a “lugsport” no matter how you look at it. The bracelet that flows seamlessly from the case, the bezel with its distinctive features… Judging by those elements alone, it certainly fits the lugsport category.
However, the F77 is not, in the first place, a “watch marketed as a luxury item.”Whether in terms of price or heritage, the F77 positions itself as a “practical watch modeled after a sports-luxury design,” and I believe it should be interpreted and enjoyed as such. While it may be a stylish sports model, it is not what is commonly referred to as “luxury”… That is the conclusion I’ve reached this time.
It does have a “quiet luxury” vibe, though (*´ω｀*)
The True Nature of the “Bitter Aftertaste” Shared by Both the Old and New Nivada Glenhen
Even before I learned that I could see the actual watch in Japan, I had been keeping an eye out for older models of the “Nevada Glänchen” on overseas auction sites and elsewhere. In fact, I had actually learned about “Croton” first, and only later discovered that “Croton” was another name for “Nevada Glänchen.”
The “image of the Nevada Glenche” that has taken root in my mind as a Croton enthusiast is epitomized by the chronograph models that led to the current “Chronomaster.”Looking back now, I can’t help but regret not buying them when they were available at such affordable prices; despite being heavily worn from daily use, they radiated a youthful, aggressive “passion” that seemed out of place for such practical items.
A tough-as-nails exterior and a passionate soul… It was just like the Showa-era police dramas I used to watch as a kid.
Those tough-as-nails adults I looked up to as a kid, thinking, “I want to be just like them when I grow up!”… If I had to give an example, it would be actor Go Wakabayashi. Just this comparison alone should mean something to those in the know. Huh?? You don’t get it?? Oh, man… Go watch *G-Men* right now (lol).
That’s why I sense the same “bitterness” in the “New Nevada Glänchen,” which is forging ahead on a straight path of reissue.
Finally… A “faithful reissue” from a watch brand… Nevada Glocken “F77” Series
Much of the “criticism of the F77” on overseas forums stems from the fact that it “resembles the Royal Oak.” On the other hand, it’s also characteristic of these forums that there are many posts from people who, fully aware of this, still praise it as a well-crafted “reissue in the Genta style” and report, “It has its flaws, but I bought one anyway.”
For those who think, “I can’t forgive it,” it doesn’t matter how well-made the watch is. In short, the moment they compare it to the Royal Oak—one of the “watches that must never be imitated” by today’s standards—quite a few people effectively shatter their own yardstick for evaluating watches.
That feeling smolders within me, too, but at the same time, I also think, “It would be a waste to judge it based on emotion alone.” That’s just how pleasant the “F77” is to wear. “It’s a replica watch, so of course it’s good”… I can understand why someone would say that. And that’s exactly why I’m torn.
However, if we calmly assess the facts as they are, the “reissue of the F77 itself” should be permitted. Given the historical context in which the original was created, it would be unfair to condemn aspects that weren’t considered problematic at the time using today’s standards. I believe this is the decisive difference between this brand and those that release “reissue-style” watches based on models that don’t exist in their own archives.
In a sense, Nevada Glänchen’s “F77 Series” is a reissue that truly “stays true to its identity as a watch brand” (*´∀｀*)
| F77 SST CHRONO MECAQUARTZ BLUE MK2 – 38MM | |
|---|---|
| Item | Contents |
| Dial | Blue Woven |
| Diameter | 38 mm |
| case thickness | 12.2 mm |
| Case Material | 316L Stainless Steel |
| lug-to-lug | 46.2 mm |
| Case Finishing | Combination finishing of satin brushing and polishing (including the area around the glass) |
| caseback | 316L Stainless Steel (Silver) |
| Bracelet Width | 22 mm → 16 mm |
| crown | Screw-in type |
| buckle | 316L Stainless Steel Push-Button Deployment Clasp |
| movement | VK64 Mekaku Quartz |
| crystal | Sapphire Crystal (Double Dome) |
| water resistance | Water-resistant to 10 atmospheres |
| Features | 2 hands (2 counters) + date display, central chronograph seconds hand (1/5-second measurement), chronograph minute counter, 24-hour display |
A Side Note on F77:
Even Nivada Glänchen itself must have been worried that “people might have something to say” when the reissue was first released. Still, the reason it managed to go ahead with the sale was likely due to the support of longtime fans and a strong desire to share the lineup from its heyday with today’s watch enthusiasts.
Since we’re on the subject, I’d like to share a little interesting “fact” with you.
Believe it or not, there are several people around me who own the current “Royal Oak” model, and among them is someone who loves their “F77.“
Do you get it?? This sense of ease… This “luxury of the overwhelming victor” (lol)
I don’t think I’ll ever get to experience this myself, but if you look at it from the opposite perspective, perhaps it’s the owners of the Royal Oak who are the ones who can truly enjoy the F77 the most.
If they actually thought it was a “copycat” to begin with, “real Royal Oak wearers” wouldn’t be interested in it. Is the point to mock it?? I’m sure that’s not the case (they seem to be having a blast, after all!!)
It must be precisely because he recognizes it as “a piece not to be underestimated, considering the price” that he decided to add it to his exquisite collection. In any case, I’m incredibly envious. For a watch enthusiast, that is truly a “dream-like luxury” (*´ω｀*)
ご感想（ログインが必要です）