While everyone was drooling over Porsche Design’s groundbreaking all-black Chronograph 1 from 1972, there was this quieter follow-up in 1975 that ditched the signature black PVD coating for something more classic and understated. Now, half a century later, the brand is finally bringing back that version of the Chronograph 1 with the 1975 Limited Edition.
More Than Just Missing the Black Coating
Where the 1972 model screamed “look at me, I’m the future,” the 1975 variant whispered its tool watch intentions. Military units picked up on this immediately, turning variants into highly sought-after field watches for elite forces.
This new limited edition takes that utilitarian ethos and runs it through modern manufacturing. Instead of the original’s stainless steel, we’re getting glass bead-blasted titanium throughout the 40.8mm case and integrated bracelet. For the first time, Porsche Design is offering this configuration to anyone who doesn’t own a specific limited-edition Porsche vehicle like previous titanium Chronograph 1 variants have been.
Titanium’s natural properties complement the design’s Germanic tool-watch character perfectly. The uniform matte finish across the case and bracelet creates an almost industrial aesthetic that removes the stealthiness of the blacked-out Chronograph 1.
Back to Basics, Forward in Execution
Everything else here remains wisely close to the classic Chronograph 1, including the 40.8mm case size, the hooded lugs, the subtle bezel slope, and even the way the case sides flow into the bracelet. You still get the matte black dial background with white markers and hands for maximum contrast, and a single pop of Guards Red on the chronograph seconds hand.
The 911 speedometer inspiration is still there in the layout and typography, and we even get the bilingual day-date window (German and English). However, the brand has now mixed vintage Porsche Design logos with the contemporary branding on the dial for a commemorative touch.
Under the solid caseback, the WERK 01.240 movement is a definite upgrade from the Valjoux 7750 that powered the originals. Porsche Design worked with Concepto to build this specifically for them, adding flyback chronograph functionality and COSC certification while maintaining a respectable 48-hour power reserve.
Spec Sheet
Model: Chronograph 1 1975 Limited Edition
Case Size: 40.8mm
Case Thickness: 14.15mm
Case Material: Glass bead-blasted titanium
Water Resistance: 100m
Movement: Porsche Design WERK 01.240 automatic flyback chronograph
Bracelet: Titanium with micro-adjustment clasp
Limited Edition?: Yes, 350
Pricing & Availability
Limited to just 350 pieces, the Porsche Design Chronograph 1 1975 Limited Edition is available now from the brand’s website for $9,650.
Recap
Porsche Design Chronograph 1 1975 Limited Edition
Porsche Design pays homage to a 1975 steel cased version of its Chronograph 1 with this non-black case version available to non-Porsche owners for the first time.
