Many watch brands use the Seagull ST automatic movement, and you can’t blame them. Based on a classic Venus 175 chronograph the Seagull is probably much more accurate than the original Venus from 1940s Switzerland, as 21st century machine tools, CAD design and robot assembly all aces old fashioned production line methods using hand assembly.

So the latest three models from Raconteur watches, Stockholm based and offering their new timepieces on Kickstarter, marry that Chinese value-for-money movement tech to Euro design. The Verne Nautilus dive model, Verne Bi-Compax chrono and Earhart are clean, punchy style statements, with the panda dial Verne Bi-Compax being our fave dial combo. The 60s style flat-top chrono pushers are very nice detail, plus the vintage tanned straps also add an old fashioned feel.

£265 for the Verne Nautilus is fantastic value, and £275 for the Bi-Compax is a decent price too – extra few quid for a see-thru caseback by the way. Worth it we think as the Seagull is quite an interesting vintage chrono remix, with its many levers, anodised screws, plated gear cogs and chamfered bridges.

There are super early bird discount prices on all three models on the Raconteur Kickstarter page by the way. Moreinfo here.

See the Raconteur promo video here;