For those looking for a chronograph that varies from the norm, Cuervo y Sobrinos is a Cuban-based watch brand that offers something different.

The Historiador Gran Premio de Cuba “1957” comes in a 42 mm x 12 mm stainless steel case with lugs that are reminiscent of Vacheron Constantin’s Cornes de Vache timepieces, that have “cow horn” lugs.

Cuervo y Sobrinos watches tend to be cigar-themed, this particular chronograph looks back to 1957 when Cuba hosted the Cuban Grand Prix. The Gran Premio de Cuba chronograph is limited to 162 pieces and pays homage to the automobile race that took place in the esplanade of Malecón, north of Havana.

“In 1957, Juan Manuel Fangio, the famous Argentinian driver, secured victory in his Maserati 300S. The following year, on the eve of the race, anti-government revolutionaries kidnapped Fangio, however, the race still went ahead and Stirling Moss was victorious in his Ferrari 335S. Unfortunately, the 1959 race was canceled due to political instability, however, it returned for one last time in 1960, when the British driver, Stirling Moss, was once again, triumphant, albeit this time in a Maserati Tipo 61,” according to Cuervo y Sobrinos.

With a red-orange matte textured dial, contrasted by cream-colored 30-minute and 12-hour counters, a cream-colored telemeter scale, a black tachymeter scale, leaf-shaped hour and minute hands, a white central chronograph seconds counter, and white and black printed numerals — the dial has a sporty feel that’s evokes racing and Cuba.

Distinctive “piston-style” chronograph pushers and an unusual crown guard further distinguish this Cuban chronograph. The caseback is Gran Premio 1957 de Cuba insignia and the model is limited to just 162 pieces. This latter number was inspired by the 162-mile race distance of the Gran Premio 1957 de Cuba. A domed sapphire protects the dial. and the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters.

Driving the time and chronograph functions is a 27-jewel, 4Hz, automatic Valjoux/ETA 7753 chronograph movement which has a 48-hour power reserve. A domed sapphire protects the dial. and the watch is water resistant to 30 meters.

The Historiador Gran Premio de Cuba “1957 (Ref. 3142.1GP57)” is paired with a black perforated leather racing strap with red contrast stitching and the watch retails for $4,425

 

Photo by Cuervos y Sobrinos.