We are thrilled to share an insightful blog post by Bilal Khan from Teddy Baldassarre on December 29, 2024, exploring the remarkable Sea-Gull Rattrapante Split-Seconds Chronograph. In his article, titled "This $3,649 Chinese Watch Could Be the Best Value in Watchmaking," Khan delves into the craftsmanship and innovation behind this groundbreaking timepiece—China's first-ever split-seconds chronograph.
As a proud symbol of Sea-Gull's heritage and engineering prowess, this watch represents a new chapter in our journey to push the boundaries of precision and value. Read on to discover why the Sea-Gull Rattrapante is capturing the attention of watch enthusiasts worldwide.
Below is Bilal Khan's insightful blog post, which we have reposted.
A few days ago on December 26, Sea-Gull watch company celebrated their 70th anniversary with a new product presentation in Tianjin, China. At this launch, they released four new watches including an astronomical calendar tourbillon, a minute-repeater automaton, and a triple complication piece with a tourbillon, perpetual calendar, and minute repeater. However, it was the simplest and most humble release that has grabbed my attention and will likely make a splash throughout the industry: the Sea-Gull Split-Second Chronograph aka Rattrapante watch.
Mechanical rattrapante aka split-seconds chronographs have long been one of the most complicated and difficult to produce complications out there. For some time the Habring² Doppel-Felix has been considered one of the better deals out there for a mechanical rattrapante with a price just shy of $10,000. A big reason for this has to do with the fact that brand co-founder Richard Habring actually designed the reconfigured Valjoux 7750 movement which was respecced as a split-seconds chronograph for the IWC Doppel chronograph in 1993. Once the patent expired in 2012, he was able to create his own version of the movement. Beyond these 7750-based rattrapantes, there are some in-house calibers from brands that start in the mid-to-high five figures and easily go into six figures.
Well, something changed recently and it’s not from who I expected. Sea-Gull, the Chinese brand known for its inexpensive movements recently decided it would dramatically cut down its production of movements for third-party manufacturers (with some reporting that their minimum per order is a whopping 10,000 movements). Now in a decidedly upmarket move, we see the release of the Sea-Gull Rattrapante Ref. 418.13.1077, the very first rattrapante made in China. It also undercuts every other Rattrapante out there with a price of $3,649 (the price for free shipping and insured delivery to countries and regions outside mainland China).
The Sea-Gull Rattrapante uses the ST1961 movement which is based on its ST19. I know what you’re thinking and yes, the base ST19 is a relatively cheap movement you’ve seen in the cult-classic Seagull 1963 which goes for literally a couple of hundred bucks. While it’s hard for me to judge the new ST1961 movement without handling it and with no long-term consumer testimonials, it’s equally difficult to underestimate the watchmaking prowess it would take to create a new rattrapante movement. Sea-Gull is being cautious here with a limited edition run of just 500 pieces, also. Still, there are some hand-finished touches here like Geneva stripes and what I believe to be some hand beveling on the bridges. The ST1961 has 27 jewels and a 45-hour power reserve. Again, it’s difficult to make any judgments beyond specs and images but wow do I want to handle this watch. For a closer hands-on look at the movement, here is the official link of Seagull Rattrapante Split Second Chronograph.
Adding to the value proposition here is the fact that the 42.5mm wide and 12mm thick (50m of water resistance) case is done in titanium. Beneath the AR-coated sapphire crystal is a very traditional dial layout with applied hour numerals and Sea-Gull logo. Also, the leaf-shaped hands are flame-blued which is an appreciated touch. Finally, the watch comes on a black alligator leather strap with a titanium alloy clasp on the pin buckle. The Sea-Gull Rattrapante Ref. 418.13.1077 is limited to 500 pieces with a price of 23,800 CNY or 3,649 USD (the price for free shipping and insured delivery to countries and regions outside mainland China).
For more information about Sea-Gull, head over to the official website at seagullwatches.com. With only 500 pieces globally, it is a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of horological history.
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Blog correction: $3,649 is the price for free shipping and insured delivery to countries and regions outside mainland China.
About Bilal Khan
Bilal Khan is a distinguished watch journalist and photographer based in Los Angeles, with a rich background in the horological media industry. His journey into watch journalism began in 2015 when he joined aBlogtoWatch, where he served as Managing Editor and later as Senior Editor until 2022.
In June 2022, Bilal became a Senior Editor at WatchTime, further solidifying his reputation in the field. His work is characterized by a deep appreciation for watch design and mechanics, as well as a commitment to educating and entertaining his audience.
Bilal's personal watch collection began with the Omega Speedmaster, a timepiece that has inspired many enthusiasts. Over the years, he has explored a wide array of watches, reflecting his dynamic interests and extensive knowledge in horology.
Beyond his editorial roles, Bilal has contributed to various platforms, including Teddy Baldassarre's website, where he provides in-depth analyses of notable timepieces.
His passion for watches is complemented by interests in travel, design, and engaging storytelling, making him a respected voice among watch enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
