Introduction: A fresh take on motorsport-inspired chronographs
Watch enthusiasts know that chronographs and motor racing have a symbiotic relationship. Nivada Grenchen leans into that synergy with the Chronoking Racing Mecaquartz, a 38mm chronograph that combines accessible pricing with a bold, track-ready aesthetic. The new model lineup invites personalisation—from bezels to straps—allowing you to tailor the watch to your mood, race day, or collection goals.
Design foundations: compact, confident, and retro-forward
The Chronoking is built around a 38mm 316L stainless steel case with vintage-inspired straight-edged lugs and a deeply ridged tachymeter bezel. At 13.7mm thick and paired with a closed case back, the design emphasises wearability and legibility over flash. The watch is powered by the Seiko VK64 Mecaquartz movement, delivering precise chronograph performance with mechanical-feel pushers while keeping the price accessible and serviceable. A double-domed sapphire crystal adds a retro-chic distortion that nods to classic racing chronographs without compromising durability or legibility.
Dial variations: five personalities, one core layout
Five dial variations give each Chronoking Racing its own character while preserving a consistent tri-compax layout (24-hour indicator at 3, running seconds at 6, 60-minute counter at 9). The black forged carbon fibre dials produce unique patterns in each watch due to subtle differences in the carbon weave. Other dial options include a deep metallic blue, a silvery grey, and a striking sparkly metallic teal green. Sub-dial details and chapter rings feature different colour accents—yellow, orange, blues, grey, and black—providing different vibes from understated to bold. Aesthetically, the mix of high-polish hardware, grained dial finishes, and concentric sub-dial rings conveys a refined, race-inspired look without crossing into ostentation.
Bezel and strap customization: endless combinations
One of the Chronoking Racing’s standout features is its bespoke bezel system. Each dial can be paired with a colour-matched steel tachymeter bezel (three glass and two aluminium options). The bezels are user-replaceable, enabling instant transformations from subdued to electric with a simple swap. Nivada’s approach here is unusual in a market where limited editions and fixed configurations dominate, but it pays off for collectors and enthusiasts who crave change without buying a new watch. Beyond bezels, the watch line offers a broad strap and bracelet selection: two stainless steel options (flat link or beads of rice), a black Tropic-style rubber strap for a retro 1960s vibe, and six leather options, including various browns, blacks, pebbled, smooth, and perforated finishes. This breadth supports a wide range of wearers and outfits, from daily commutes to weekend track days.
Movement, durability, and daily practicality
The VK64 Mecaquartz movement is a pragmatic choice, offering quartz accuracy with mechanical chronograph feel. With an approximate three-year battery life and accuracy within ±20 seconds per month under normal conditions, the Chronoking Racing prioritises reliability for everyday wear. The 100-meter water resistance ensures resilience for rain-soaked track mornings or beachside weekends, while the closed case back keeps the movement tidy and protected. For buyers who value function nearly as much as form, this combination satisfies both needs without charging a premium for mechanical-only prestige.
Limited edition highlight and availability
Among the five dial variants, the carbon fibre edition with multi-coloured subdial details stands out as a limited run of 500 pieces. This model, when paired with an optional colourful bezel and your preferred strap, becomes a highly configurable addition to any collection. Pricing starts at CHF 560, offering an attractive entry point for a modern racing chronograph that still communicates ambition and character. Availability begins September 25, 2025, with limited stock in select shops and retailers.
Who is this watch for?
The Chronoking Racing Mecaquartz is ideal for motorsport enthusiasts who want a bold, versatile chronograph that can be reimagined with different bezels and straps. It’s also a practical entry point for newcomers to the genre, combining a compact 38mm footprint with dial personalities and colourways that can mirror a driver’s helmet or the mood of a race weekend.
Bottom line: a fresh, affordable racing chronograph with room to grow
Nivada Grenchen’s Chronoking Racing Mecaquartz delivers a cohesive, race-inspired package with strong dial finishing, thoughtful colour-blocking, and an innovative modular bezel system. It’s a watch that invites ownership through customization while offering the reliability of a Seiko-powered quartz chronograph. If you’re chasing a characterful timepiece that echoes motorsport’s visual language, this is a compelling option that won’t overwhelm your budget.
