by Marc Levesque
Different and unexpected
Over the past thirty years, I have spent countless hours exploring the world of sports watches, from divers to GMTs to chronographs. I am always on the lookout for the different, the unexpected, and especially those that can combine both. Findeisen is one of those brands. A little over a year ago, I had the tremendous opportunity to review two of their NauticMaster dive watches for Worn & Wound. You can read that review here.
With the SpeedForce Chronograph, Findeisen, affectionately known as “Finnie” in my mind, once again delivers something different and wholly unexpected: a proper racing sports chronograph powered by a top-tier German movement with a twist. I wore the Desert Oak (salmon-dial) on the steel bracelet for weeks, and here’s my complete, in-depth review.
Advertisement
First Impressions
At first look, its numerical dimensions might seem daunting. However, thanks to a clever case design, the SpeedForce wears smaller than the numbers would suggest. On the wrist, it strikes a bold balance between a vintage racer and modern tool. There’s a blend of grit and refinement, with polished surfaces, sculpted mid-case lines, and a tachymeter bezel, complemented by the warmth and thoughtful finishing of the salmon dial.
This marks Findeisen’s first chronograph built on a proprietary movement (Damasko C51.6), representing a significant advancement beyond the NauticMaster. While the NauticMaster suggested mechanical precision through its design, the SpeedForce boldly announces it. This is a pivotal moment in the brand’s evolution. Additionally, salmon dials are currently trending, but this particular execution of salmon is done with sophistication rather than gimmickry.
Let’s explore every detail and see how the SpeedForce compares in design, engineering, wearability, and overall personality. For this comparison, I’ll reference my NauticMaster review throughout.
Advertisement
Explore the OMEGA Seamaster Diver 300M in Orange
Key Features of the Findeisen SpeedForce
Case & Dimensions
The entire case is made of brushed stainless steel, and although it is significant, the SpeedForce doesn’t feel oversized. Thanks to a narrow bezel, which brings the visual center closer to the typical watch size of 40-42mm. The sculpted sides of the case flatten below the bezel ring, reducing its perceived height and giving it an elegant, wrist-hugging profile. The bezel is polished stainless steel with crisp tachymeter markings. It’s non-rotating and sets a sporty tone without inviting confusion.
The screw-down case back is securely fastened and features a well-executed alternating pattern, combining polished and media-blasted surfaces, reminiscent of racing flags from the glorious days of motorsport. The crown and pushers do not screw down, but thanks to rubber gaskets and proper seals, the watch is water-resistant up to 100 meters. This means it can handle all your summertime activities, so long as diving isn’t included.
The crystal is a 2.5 mm-thick piece of sapphire glass with AR coating underneath, which is very clear, with no rainbowing or distortion, even at steep angles. Overall, it’s a substantial and confident piece, featuring subtle design elements that keep it both elegant and functional.
Advertisement
Dial & Bezel
Salmon is a challenging colour, and Findeisen has captured it perfectly. This shade isn’t simply pink or peach; it’s a sophisticated warm hue, reminiscent of a vintage chronograph catching the sunset rays on the dashboard of an old rally car. Depending on the ambient light, the colour shifts from peachy gold to blush. It has a soft metallic sheen that reflects light beautifully without being overly flashy. It’s a representation of luxury that is also understated.
The SpeedForce features a classic tri-compax layout, comprising a 12-hour subdial at 6 o’clock, a 24-hour indicator at 3 o’clock, and running seconds at 9 o’clock. All are subtly sunken with a concentric guilloché texture, a visual cue that separates the function from the dial background. The 12-hour totalizer was my biggest comfort: many chronographs skip it, but this keeps full timing utility intact. Red rings on subdials echo NauticMaster’s accent strategy and bring cohesion to Findeisen’s microbrand DNA.
Advertisement
The placement of the date in the 9 o’clock seconds subdial is somewhat unusual, but it is done tastefully and remains unobtrusive. It is near the guilloché outer ring and does not disrupt the tri-compax symmetry at all. I inquired about the placement of the date display. I was informed that positioning it at 6 o’clock would obstruct the totalizer display, while placing it at 3 o’clock would interfere with the 24-hour counter. Findeisen believes that the constant seconds readout is the least valuable, and putting it between the subdials would disrupt the symmetry.
The fixed tachymeter bezel showcases markings for measurements up to 1000 units per hour, adding a touch of functionality to its sleek design. The polished surface beautifully complements the brushed case, giving it a refined appearance. The compact, technical font for the markings strikes a perfect balance between style and utility.
Advertisement
The applied hour markers feature elegant rectangular shapes with chamfered edges, which catch the light in a captivating manner. The central chronograph hands are slim yet long enough to reach the track markers. Many watch companies overlook the importance of hand length, and this is a lesson that could be learned from Findeisen.
The polished baton-style hands and hour markers are generously coated with SuperLuminova BGW9, ensuring excellent visibility both during the day and at night. The glowing effect lasts for hours, making the watch easily readable even in the early morning hours. All elements of the dial, including the applied markers, guilloché subdials, hands, and date display, exhibit precision in design and execution. The attention to detail is top-tier, and it is evident.
Movement
For the SpeedForce, Findeisen opted for the Damasko C51.6 TOP grade central-seconds automatic chronograph movement, instead of using a generic ETA or its Sellita clone. This movement is a proper manufacture caliber, built in-house by Damasko and utilized exclusively by Findeisen. It is shock-proof according to DIN 8308, anti-magnetic according to DIN 8309, and it is adjusted in 5 positions.
Advertisement
This design is unique and improves readability by eliminating the need to consult a separate tiny subdial for the chronograph minutes. In my opinion, this is the best way to read a chronograph, and more companies should strive to implement this type of complication. The start/stop pushers have crisp, tactile action, providing excellent feedback without any mushiness. The reset function is instant, returning the hands precisely to their home position.
Regulated in five positions, this is a highly accurate, top-level movement. Over two weeks, I measured an accuracy of +2 to +4 seconds per day on my wrist, which is better than the COSC specifications. A silicon escapement not only provides greater anti-magnetic properties but also improves friction and consistency in precision. For performance and robustness, the C51.6 is no afterthought.
Advertisement
Bracelet
The bracelet is made entirely of stainless steel, featuring polished center links and brushed outer links. It tapers from 22 mm at the lugs to 18 mm at the clasp. The finishing is clean and smooth, with solid male end-links, although there is some noticeable rattle and flex. When including the end-links, the total length across the wrist reaches a substantial 57.5 mm; however, they do curve down sharply to conform to the shape of the wrist. It fits my 7.5-inch wrist comfortably. I hope that future redesigns will consider using female end-links.
The links can be adjusted using single-sided screws, but there’s something unique about this design. The threads for the screw are located at the top, near the head, and are independent of the pin that slides through the link. I have never encountered anything like it before. This clever design eliminates the possibility of the screw loosening due to the everyday movement of the links. Very impressive, in my opinion. It features a twin-trigger clasp designed with a convenient on-the-fly micro-adjust system, which includes +/- 2mm toggles for a precise fit.
Weighing a total of 190 grams—130 grams for the watch and 87 grams for the bracelet—this piece has a substantial feel without causing wrist fatigue. Despite its size and weight, it offers excellent comfort on the wrist. The lugs are designed to curve and match the shape of the wrist, while the flexibility of the bracelet helps reduce torque. I wore it from day to night, transitioning between meetings and dinners, and it was consistently comfortable.
Advertisement
On-Wrist Experience & Daily Use
Wrist presence: The salmon dial catches attention subtly. People inquire, “What is that dial colour?” instead of “Are you wearing pink?” It’s unique yet sophisticated. The chronograph functionality is user-friendly. Start, stop, and reset actions are straightforward and immediate.
Functionality: The chronograph hands provide a sufficient contrast to prevent any confusion on the dial. The tachymeter bezel, although never used, adds a sporty racing feel. The watch maintains its precision and good looks despite daily wear and tear. It has withstood hot showers, rain, leisurely bike rides, and the occasional bumps against tables without any issues.
The dial remains easily readable in direct sunlight or artificial lighting. The AR coating is effective, preventing reflections that obscure the dial, and the hands are sufficiently large for quick readability without overly obstructing the subdials.
Collector feedback: I displayed it at several watch events, and there were two main reactions: “That’s a beautiful salmon dial,” and “Is that a central minutes chronograph?” True collectors were nodding in appreciation. The movement also drew attention, prompting discussions and shared memories of the long-gone Lemania 5100.
Advertisement
Specs
| Case | 316L Stainless Steel 44mm Diameter 52mm Lug to Lug 22mm Lug width 14.7mm Thick (with Crystal) Screwed Case Back 100m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Sapphire Crystal Salmon Dial Applied Markers Pencil Hands Hands BGW9 Swiss Super-LumiNova® |
| Movement | Damasko C51.6 TOP 27 Jewels 28 800vph 50-hour Power Reserve |
| Strap | Stainless Steel Bracelet /w Comfort-Adjusting Clasp |
Findeisen SpeedForce
Advertisement
Limitations & Observations
Size & Thickness: 44mm wide and 14.7mm thick, which can feel chunky for full sleeves or tighter cuffs. However, embrace that identity! The SpeedForce is not stealthy; it’s performance-oriented. If you need something sleek and under 40mm, this is not the choice for you.
Exclusivity & Availability: Only 35 pieces per colour option. At €4,875 (~USD 5,300), it is steep but comparable to high-end Swiss limiteds. Rakish value for engineering; price remains fair for a small independent brand, plus manufacture caliber.
Tachymeter Utility: Tachy bezels are niche and functional if needed, although this need is rare. Otherwise, the cluster of numbers on the dial’s edge can appear somewhat vintage or vestigial.
Advertisement
Final Thoughts
The Findeisen SpeedForce Salmon Dial on Bracelet is not just another chronograph; it’s a small independent brand’s serious expression of design and mechanical capability. Bold size, vibrant subdued colour, and competition-grade movement: this is independent horology at its best.
This watch goes beyond form; it’s about substance, readability, and integrity. Each element reflects Findeisen’s progression post-NauticMaster. This is a brand forging a mechanical identity, not just a styling one.
If you want a full-function chronograph, creative independent design, and small independent brand rarity, the SpeedForce delivers. It’s big, but it wears well; it commands curiosity, yet retains sophistication; it costs serious money, but offers excellent value with manufacture pride.
Advertisement
About the author
Based in Montreal, Quebec, Marc has been an enthusiastic watch collector for well over three decades. Having witnessed and participated in the birth of the internet watch community, he has played a role on multiple watch forums and his articles have appeared on-line and in print since the late 1990s. Today his passion for all things horological is as pronounced as it has ever been, while he continues his never-ending search for watch next. You can follow him on Instagram.
Off The Cuff articles are full-length, hands-on reviews of the watch in question and represent the opinion of the author only. All photos are original, unless specified otherwise. If you would like to have your watch reviewed on this site, contact us here.
Please understand that using any links to products on this site might result in us making money.
Great review and a great watch! Far away from the usual and therefore refreshingly different!