Introducing the RGM Model 600 Chronograph

Pennsylvania based RGM Watch Co. has introduced their latest creation, the Model 600 Chronograph. Much of RGM’s work is bespoke, and the brand is particularly well known for their engine turning and enameling capabilities, so it’s always interesting to see them release a watch for general sale in a style that skews less ornate than what the brand is often associated with. The Model 600 Chronograph (the M-600) takes vintage military chronographs as its chief inspiration, and it appears to be crafted to the high standard RGM has set for itself. 

Legibility is the top priority of this simple military inspired design. Easy to read Arabic numerals round the perimeter of the dial, with subdials for running seconds at 9:00 and a minutes totalizer at 3:00 providing some balance. For low light performance, X1 SuperLumaNova is used on the markers and hands, which have been cut in a syringe shape, recalling popular watches from Sinn, Patek Philippe, and many others. This is a no frills black dial adorned with what you need to tell the time and not much else. 

The case is also fairly straightforward, but certainly sized up from almost any watch that could have been used as a source inspiration for the M-600. It’s 42mm in diameter and 12.4mm tall. It also has a lug width of 22mm, so this one should wear widely even on large wrists. RGM has applied a satin finish across the entire surface area of the watch, including the closed case back. Interestingly, this watch is RGM’s first production model to feature a box sapphire crystal. This style of crystal was chosen by RGM because of how it recalls a particular vintage aesthetic, and it’s ability to slim the watch somewhat compared to a highly domed crystal. 

The M-600 Chronograph runs on a Valjoux 7753 movement that has been modified by RGM. At $4,250, that’s on the high side for a watch with this movement, but devotees of RGM’s American made watches understand the quality behind their products, and that purchasing a watch like this not only gets you a well made chronograph, but is a small piece of supporting an ongoing American watchmaking effort, which is tough to place monetary value on. More information can be found at RGM’s website right here.