Lima Kronosprinter

by Tyler Frederick

Less is more

Being a “watch writer” brings two things: checking out badass watches and connecting with unique minds and unique designs through various brands and creators. As the saying goes, sometimes, less is more, and that includes includes design. Regarding watches, brands love to push the envelope with new movements, complications, and functionality, which can be overwhelming and sometimes too much; the other side of the spectrum creates a watch with minimalism in mind–a design that has the most simple aesthetic that packs a punch on the wrist. The watch I’m focusing on today is minimal, unique, and a spin on a chronograph that I wasn’t expecting to be so damn good. May I present from Indonesia, Lima and the Kronosprinter Black.

Lima Kronosprinter Watch Review — Lima Kronosprinter @horologyobsessed

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Key Features of the Lima Kronosprinter

To be clear, the watch didn’t make it to my desk in the usual manner, and this is a crucial example of why the watch community is filled with amazing people looking to share cool stuff. Fellow writer, collector, and friend Vincent Deschamps (@mainspring.watch) contacted me a few months ago regarding the Kronosprinter and asked if I’d like to check it out. The second I saw his shots of the watch, it was an immediate yes. Fast-forward, and here it is on my desk. Simple and elegant. With a unique dial layout and a use of primary colours paired with black and stainless steel, it’s a genuinely gorgeous watch with the perfect pop of colour.

You should know immediately that the design of the Kronosprinter is inspired by Dieter Rams and Bauhaus. For those who don’t know, Dieter Rams is a legendary Industrial designer (now 92 years old) who took the “less but better” approach to his work. He is mainly known for his consumer products with Braun and furniture with Vitsœ. He also wrote the award-winning book, “Ten Principles of Good Design.” There’s a lot more to his story, but that’s an article in and of itself.

I’ve had an abundance of unique case shapes to check out over the last few weeks, and the “squircle” case on the Kronosprinter stands out among the crowd and hooked me instantly–a vintage vibe with a modern twist. Measuring 37mm in diameter with a 45mm lug-to-lug and a 10mm case thickness (11mm with the crystal), it fits in my perfect proportion range. Compact, comfortable, and easy to wear, it’s a watch I often reach for due to its casual wearability and sleek–yet bold–aesthetic.

SPECS

Case	316L Stainless Steel 37mm Diameter 45mm Lug to Lug 10mm Thick (11mm /w Crystal) 20mm Lug Width Screw Down Crown 50m Water Resistance
Dial & Crystal	Domed K1 Mineral Glass Matte Dial Printed Indices Pencil Handset Japan Luminova
Movement	Seiko VK64 Meca-Quartz Hybrid 32 768Hz 3-Year Battery Life
Strap	Black Saffiano Leather

Lima Kronosprinter

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Quibbles

The Kronosprinter is a watch I’ve enjoyed thoroughly and wear often. While it may be comfortable now, one thing hindered the wearing experience for quite some time, and it still does in some instances: the stock leather strap. While it does look great with the watch, the time it took to break in was quite extensive due to the stiffness and finishing of the leather; the best way to describe it would be the feeling of a hardened material. With a bit of time in the sun and wearing it every day for a couple of weeks, the strap did conform to my wrist, but that stiffness still exists slightly.

Final Thoughts

The Lima Kronosprinter Black has been an unexpected treat, and it’s even more surprising that it’s become a daily (every other day?) wear for me. The proportions, reliability, aesthetic—all of it is so, so good. If you can get your hands on one, I recommend checking it out and experiencing one for yourself; they’re really cool.

Pricing & Availability

Now, here’s the thing: the Kronosprinter series is often sold out, which makes sense. However, there is a re-stock in mid-June and mid-July, but they’re expected to go quickly, so keep your eyes peeled. The watch retails for $290USD and can be found on the Lima website.

About the author

Born into a family obsessed with motorsport, Tyler Frederick became enamoured with speed and beautiful cars at a young age. His love of Formula 1–and all things mechanical–eventually lead him to horology. You can follow him on Instagram.

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