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Horology nerds will know Vulcain as being synonymous with alarm complications — the brand introduced the world’s first mechanical wristwatch with an alarm function in 1958. In more recent times, Vulcain has had a revival, releasing a series of timepieces that respect the brand’s storied past while infusing modern design and functionality.
The Grand Prix Small Second is the latest iteration of Vulcain’s modern revival, and it’s a compelling reference for anyone in the market for a retro-inspired Swiss dress watch.
VulcainA long, rich legacy
To understand this watch’s significance, it’s best to start with the legacy of Vulcain’s Grand Prix reference. Named for the Grand Prix it won at the 1929 Barcelona International Exhibition, Vulcain’s flagship dress watch has always embodied a pure, simplistic design.
Over the decades, the Grand Prix has undergone many evolutions, and in 2024 year, the brand introduced the modern incarnation to much acclaim. With its announcement of the Small Second variant, Vulcain expands the Grand Prix collection with a fresh, more feature-rich reference that infuses timeless heritage with a touch of modernity.
Timeless design made modern
As the name implies, the small second feature at 6 o’clock distinguishes this timepiece within the broader Grand Prix ecosystem while nodding to Vulcain models from the 1950s and 1960s, particularly the Presidents’ Chronograph. But its far from this watch’s only notable vintage-inspired element. Its double-dome sapphire crystal and semi-gloss sunburst finish dial design are also reminiscent of classic timepieces.
While inspired by vintage models, the Grand Prix Small Second is sized for contemporary tastes with a 39mm diameter and 12.70mm thickness. Additionally, it’s loaded with modern amenities such as 5 ATM water resistance and an anti-reflective coating for increased legibility. Plus, it’s powered by an exceptionally precise Swiss-made Landeron L246 automatic movement with 40-hour power reserve.
Last but certainly not least for a dress watch, the Grand Prix Small Second boasts a balanced and sophisticated aesthetic. Featuring a polished steel case, the timepiece is available with two dial variations — Midnight Blue or Emerald Green — both of which feature a semi-gloss sunburst finish, steel indices and simple Arabic numerals. Finally, users can choose from a variety of strap colors, textures, and materials to further customize the timepiece for their aesthetic.
The Grand Prix Small Second is an exceptional value
Starting at just $1,420, the Grand Prix Small Second is priced competitively especially when you consider its precision components and exceptional build quality backed by one of Swiss timekeeping’s most storied brands. Price aside, and perhaps more importantly, its understated, elegant aesthetics seem to perfectly balance classical and modern design sensibilities, the result of which is a vintage-inspired timepiece that rises above in a crowded and ever-expanding sub category of dress watches.
Vulcain