The Valjoux Field Chronograph 1860 Blackout (Ref. A.1861.BO) essentially completes Luminox’s extensive product range of ruggedized, military-styled timekeepers. Being essentially the same Field automatic chronograph with a new, more impressive in its stealthy, kill-em-all-style color scheme, it offers the same winning formula of classic exterior design and a great self-winding movement that is as reliable as a well-oiled Glock.
Perhaps, the only thing that may greatly limit the timekeeper’s appeal (and projected sales figures) is the gadget’s terribly oversized body: the watch measures whole 48 millimeters in diameter, has relatively longer horns and will be downright uncomfortable if you happen to have narrow wrists.
The only thing that sweetens the pill a little is that, at around 11 millimeters in height, the Field Chronograph 1860 Blackout is also slim. The latter quality may come especially handy not only if you carry eighty pounds of gear on your back, shoulders, chest, legs, and, yes, wrists, but also if you prefer to wear it with plain clothing: even a shirt with tighter cuffs won’t be a problem here.
Also, occupying less space atop of your wrist, the watch won’t be as prone to occasional shocks and accidental hits on walls, furniture, and the door of your car. And, of course, there is a smaller chance that you would scratch the PVD-treated timekeeper while cleaning your M4.
Like the original, the Valjoux Field Blackout is powered by the time-tested and proven ETA Valjoux 7750 chronograph movement. Reliable, accurate, and robust, the caliber gives you the usual chronograph functionality together with a calendar that shows not only the current date but also the day of the week.
Although the dial is monochromatic, the 1860 Blackout can be easily read in total darkness thanks to the usual set of LLT micro-tubes. Filled with radioactive, but harmless tritium gas, the tubes emit a bright glow for a guaranteed period of 25 years.
Regrettably, only the 12 hour-markers, as well as the hour and minute hands are equipped with the glowing tubes. If you plan to use the chronograph in the dark or simply want to check whether the watch is actually ticking, you will either have to use a flashlight or find some other time-measuring device that has a normal or night goggles-friendly backlighting.
The price is yet to be revealed, but other versions are currently offered at $2200-$2300 USD, so this timekeeper will probably go on sale at some $2500.
See also: Welcome 2 the Evolution: Hamilton Aviation X-Patrol
Photos: Luminox
Luminox Valjoux Field Chronograph 1860 Blackout A.1861.BO specification
Price: $2400 (MSRP)
Movement: Automatic, caliber ETA Valjoux 7750, Swiss Made
Number of jewels: 25
Movement frequency: 28,800 vph
Power reserve: 48 hours
Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, chronograph, date, day of week
Case: Stainless steel, black PVD
Shape: Round
Size: 48.00 mm
Case height: 11.00 mm
Lug width: 26.00 mm
Dial: Black
Numerals: Arabic
Hour markers: LLT tritium tubes
Hands: Steel, luminous
Water resistance: 100 meters
Strap: Black leather strap, grey stitches, steel PVD black brushed signature buckle
Crystal: Sapphire, antireflective
Back: Transparent