Every year, the Tour de France captivates the imagination and competitive spirit of those who are interested in cycling. While many Americans probably associate the sport with Lance Armstrong, there is an entire population of cycling enthusiasts who watch with bated breath as some of the top athletes in the sport traverse 2,115 miles over 23 days across France. It’s a spectacle of dedication, athleticism, and, yes, a bit of national pride.
Swedish watch brand Bravur has tapped into the enthusiasm of the sport with the release of their series of watches dedicated to the Grand Tours, the top three most prestigious cycling events of the year. With the 2023 Tour de France upon us, Bravur has just released their third edition of Le Grand Boucle. The latest in the series to honor the Gallic event, Bravur has taken design elements of previous versions, while making the Le Grand Boucle III entirely new.
Starting with the visuals, the latest from Bravur is a vibrant pairing of yellow (long associated with the Tour winner) and a ceramic black coating on the case, giving it a sporty look that still remains sophisticated. The small details of this watch show that Bravur has done their homework, including the frosted white dial features and dot markers, reminiscent of the legendary polka dot patterns found on the King of the Mountains jersey, awarded to the race’s top climber. Further design themes that nod to the Tour’s history include an inverted “13” on the chapter ring, a good-luck charm of sorts that’s traditional for cyclists in the race.
At a compact 38.2 mm, the Le Grand Boucle III is a great option for those who want a sporty alternative to larger styles, while still making a statement. The watch is powered by a Sellita SW511b movement and has a 62-hour power reserve and a sapphire crystal caseback, so one can see the intricate magic of the watch’s mechanism in motion.
Whether you’re a Francophone or a regular at the velodrome, the latest in the Bravur line-up will surely add a little je nais sais quoi to your look. Choose between two strap options, leather or rubber, for $2,590. Available now via Brevur’s website.
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