If you ask watch enthusiasts what sets Farer apart from other brands, the likely answer would be "color."
The London-based brand is known for its skill in using color. A great example is the Lissom collection I reviewed last year. This series of everyday watches demonstrates the importance of color schemes in creating a successful line. The new Farer Racing Chronographs confirm this approach - they feature vibrant color combinations inspired by the famous racing liveries of the late 1960s and early 1970s. This gives the models a bright retro charm appreciated by fans of historic motorsport.
History of Farer Racing Chronographs
For the creation of the new trio of Racing Chronographs, Farer drew inspiration from classic races. The colors of the three models reference the bold color schemes of racing teams from that era - a time many consider the golden age of motorsport, when mechanical simplicity and the dangers of racing went hand in hand. Although we won't discuss the risks faced by drivers, it's clear that their bravery deserves respect and admiration.
In those years, teams weren't afraid to stand out with bright colors. Think of the light blue and orange of Gulf Oil, the black and gold livery of John Player Special, or the white-blue-red design of Martini Racing. These legendary liveries originated back then and remain iconic. This era served as the inspiration for the design and color choices of the new Farer chronographs.
Technical Specifications of Farer Racing Chronographs
All three models have a stainless steel case measuring 38.5mm in diameter, 44mm in length, and 13.4mm in thickness. The classic case profile features distinctive concave lugs shaped like a ski slope, giving the watches individuality. The case finish combines matte surfaces on the lugs with highly polished bevels on the sides. The bezel with a ribbed frame and the crown, as well as the "pump" style chronograph pushers, have a mirror polish. The crown is adorned with a bronze insert embossed with the Farer logo in the shape of the letter "A".
All three models are equipped with a bidirectional bezel with a ceramic insert featuring a 12-hour scale filled with luminescent BGW9 Super-LumiNova. This allows tracking a second time zone even in the dark. On the back of the case is a flat sapphire crystal revealing the Sellita SW510M b movement.
Farer uses an Elaboré caliber version with manual winding, tested in three positions and adjusted for an average accuracy of ±5 seconds per day. The movement is decorated with Farer's signature finish, blue screws, and polished bevels, making it visually pleasing. The caliber operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, contains 23 jewels, and provides a power reserve of up to 63 hours.
The movement displays central hours and minutes, a small seconds at the "9 o'clock" position, and the chronograph features a central seconds hand, a 30-minute counter at "3", and a 12-hour counter at "6".
Farer Racing Chronograph Libre
The first model is Libre, whose name refers to Formula Libre and classic "big-eye" chronographs. Its feature is an enlarged 30-minute counter at "3 o'clock", executed in three shades of red and burgundy. Burgundy also appears on the ceramic bezel insert, hands, minute track, and dial inscriptions. The dark red hue dramatically contrasts with the textured white dial.
Applied baton indices with white Super-LumiNova and burgundy edges emphasize the contrast. The large "12" adds character and balances the design. The central chronograph hand and the small hand on the 30-minute counter are in bright blue, adding an additional accent. To complete the look, a burgundy rubber strap, several leather strap options, and a Milanese bracelet are available.
Farer Racing Chronograph Gara
The next model is Gara, which means "race" or "competition" in Italian. The color scheme is inspired by classic British Racing Green. The bezel features a green ceramic insert, and the three subdials are green with a concentric texture, white printing, and white hands. They contrast with the sunray silver dial.
Around the perimeter are applied faceted hour markers with white luminescent BGW9 Super-LumiNova. The central hour and minute hands are coated with glossy green enamel and also have luminescent coating.
In the details are orange accents: the minute track is marked with orange numbers every five minutes, and the tip of the white seconds hand is painted orange. The central chronograph hand in yellow completes the vibrant palette.
At first glance, Gara seems simple, but upon closer examination, a complex color composition becomes visible, evoking associations with watching the Italian Grand Prix under the September sun. For this model, a green rubber strap with curved ends, several leather straps, and a stainless steel Milanese bracelet are available.
Farer Racing Chronograph Volante
The third model is Volante, inspired by the popular Cobb Monopusher GMT. The dial is in sky blue with a sunray effect, and the subdials are cream-colored with guilloché, giving the watch a retro atmosphere. Applied faceted markers and the main hour and minute hands in dark blue are coated with Super-LumiNova.
The central chronograph hand and the tip of the seconds hand in sky blue are adorned with orange details. The bezel's ceramic insert is dark blue with a white luminescent 12-hour scale. The model is offered with a dark blue rubber strap, a signature leather strap, or a Milanese bracelet. Volante, which translates from Italian as "steering wheel", combines retro style with modern color execution, emphasizing its racing character.
Final Thoughts on the New Farer Racing Chronographs
For fans of classic racing chronographs, the new Farer trio is an intriguing choice. The use of color demonstrates a thoughtful and innovative approach to design that distinguishes the British brand. All three models contain many details characteristic of Farer.
The case sizes and proportions are optimal, and the manual-wind movement enhances the vintage charm. This makes the watches an excellent option for those seeking a classic chronograph with a retro vibe and modern reliability for everyday use.
Production is limited to 100 pieces of each variant. The models are now available for pre-order on the brand's official website at a price of €2,150 / US$2,095 / £1,875. Considering the quality and features, it's a competitive offer. A quick sell-out is expected, so if you wish to purchase the watches, it's best to act quickly. Shipping begins on July 14 - you might receive your new Farer Racing Chronographs before the summer holidays.