Developing and producing reliable and elegant wristwatches is what Serica does.
Today, the brand's founders Jérôme Burgert and Gabriel Vachette present a new iteration of their field watch, the 6190. Although the watch bears a different name (or reference, if you like), this is where it all began for the young Parisian brand. However, much has changed since then. Let's take a look at the Serica 6190 M.S.L. chronometer.
It's only been five years since Serica released its first watch - the W.W.W., which stood for “Wrist Watch Waterproof.” However, since 2019, it has undergone several iterations and improvements. A year after its debut, the watch's water resistance increased from 100 to 200 meters, thanks in part to a new sapphire crystal. The watch was also renamed (or renumbered) to 4512 and became available in options with white and black dials. In 2022, the 4512 model was renamed again to 6190, and instead of a manual movement, it received an automatic one. Today, alongside the three current versions of the 6190, a new trio joins the lineup. Meet the Serica 6190 M.S.L. chronometer in black, white, and gray.
Serica 6190 M.S.L. Chronometer
With last year's release of the 6190 Field Chronometer, the shape and dimensions of the case were also updated. The most obvious changes are a thinner 10.4-millimeter profile (instead of 11.3 mm) and sloped lugs. Thanks to these changes, the Serica field watch looks more refined. It seems that with the new 6190 M.S.L. model, Jérôme and Gabriel have made their field watches even more elegant rather than sporty.
The model name 6190 M.S.L., however, strongly reflects the exploratory nature of field watches. The model name derives from M.S.L. - the international unit of measure for the altitude of a summit above mean sea level. The watch features a familiar matte and polished stainless steel case with a diameter of 37.7 mm and a thickness of 10.4 mm, including a double-domed sapphire crystal of 1.8 mm thickness, with a lug-to-lug length of 46.5 mm. With these dimensions, the 6190 model fits snugly and comfortably on my 17-centimeter wrist, especially on the magnificent, flexible, and adjustable Bonklip bracelet.
Soprod Inside
Before we look at the updated dials, I'd like to tell you that the 6190 M.S.L. model is equipped with the same automatic movement as its Field Chronometer counterpart. The automatic Soprod M100 caliber operates at a frequency of 28,800 per hour, has 25 jewels, and a power reserve of 42 hours. Additionally, although it's not visible through the steel case back, the movement is decorated with Geneva stripes.
Like the 5303 divers and the 8315 GMT watches, the 6190 M.S.L. movement is a COSC-certified chronometer. This means its timing is stated to be within the range of -4 to +6 seconds per day. After Serica's past issues with movements, it's admirable that they now pay increased attention to their calibers, checking if they pass all COSC tests.
Applied Indices Instead of Printed Numbers
Until now, the dials of Serica's logo-free field watches always featured printed numbers. The current field chronometer is equipped with either four or twelve Arabic numerals or a mix of Roman and Arabic numerals on a “California” dial. Although the 4512 model was previously available with a white dial, the Field Chronometer's sole choice is black. Well, get ready, because the 6190 M.S.L. model offers several new options.
First of all, all numbers have given way to applied indices. However, their shape and positioning are not entirely new - they're already familiar to us from the 5303 diver and 8315 GMT models. However, the fact that they are raised and have a thin frame makes them much more expressive. Whether all future Serica watches will feature applied indices, I don't know. But I do know that on the clean dial of the 6190 M.S.L. model, they look right at home.
Available in Black, White, and Gray
The second change is that the 6190 M.S.L. model's dial comes in three different colors - black (obviously), white, and gray. White was a frequent request from fans, so Serica brought it back. The gray option is entirely new, marking the first time a Serica field watch dial is offered in a color other than black or white. I must say, it works very well. The glossy black dial with white hands and print looks like a classic Serica. If you're looking for a versatile watch, this is your choice. However, the other two options may be just as versatile. I didn't expect this, but the white version with a clear enamel dial, black print, and black hands also looks very good.
However, my favorite among all three options is the new gray version. Described by Serica's founders as something between brown, beige, green, and gray. I would say “taupe” is quite an apt description. Whatever it is, it looks stunning, but in this version, the white print and black hands do not match. I'm still not sure if this is a brilliant design move or if they should have matched. I think I'll let you decide in the comments below. Knowing Jérôme, I'm sure he tried all possible combinations, and it seems this one was the winner.
One thing that bothers me a bit is that I feel like there's a lot of empty space at the edges of the dial. I don't have that feeling with my Serica 5303-3 divers. For some reason, the proportions of the 6190 dial seem a bit off to me. Otherwise, I believe this dial design suits the 6190 case very well.
On the Wrist
As I've mentioned, the Serica 6190 M.S.L. chronometer is a real dream to wear. The thin case hugs the wrist nicely, and the familiar bezel with bevels and vertical brushing gives the watch expression. In its press materials, Serica calls the dial without numbers a more sporty option, but I disagree. In my opinion, it's a more refined and dressy version of the 6190 model. What do you think?
In reality, the applied indices are an incredibly nice touch, especially because they're crafted and placed with delightful precision, as you can see in Morgan's close-ups. Additionally, they contain a decent amount of lume, which enhances legibility in the dark.
Like the first Serica field watches, the 6190 M.S.L. model also comes on the signature Bonklip bracelet. I've owned this bracelet for several years, and it's one of the most comfortable bracelets out there. It articulates very well and allows for quick adjustments on the go. I like how it looks on the 6190 model, but I also know people who would prefer something other than straight end links.
Final Thoughts
The 6190 M.S.L. chronometer is yet another elegant and reliable watch from Serica. The screw-down crown ensures water resistance to 200 meters, and the automatic movement allows you to forget about winding it. If you like vintage-style watches, the 6190 M.S.L. model is definitely worth considering.
The Serica 6190 M.S.L. chronometer went on sale today at a price of 1,090 euros. As mentioned, it comes on a Bonklip bracelet. Of course, it's also compatible with Serica's injection rubber straps and fancy engraved end links. More information can be found on the brand's official website.
What do you think of the new iterations of Serica field watches with applied indices? Which color would you choose? Let us know in the Telegram channel.