Dodane Tops the Field in Besançon

This just in from Dodane -

Courtesy of Duodena

The legendary accuracy of Dodane timepieces has been confirmed by the National Astronomical Observatory of Measuring Time of Besançon (FRANCE), borne out by the results of testing from 2006 to 2011. In fact, out of 200 total tests of which only 147 watches finished in the First Category of Chronometry since 2006, Dodane ranks first with 67 watches that have received this prestigious distinction.

In 2006, 2008 and 2010 Dodane achieved the first position in the examination process!  In the other years, the brand ranked among the top five brands. Overall, Dodane has achieved the highest rank in accuracy according to Thermal Variations and in Rate Resumption.

Courtesy of Duodena

A chronograph can be designated an "Observatory Chronometer" if it meets the strict standards of accuracy established by the Aover 15 consecutive days of testing that include testing in 5 positions and at different temperature settings. The uniqueness of this control lies in the fact that it applies only to a fully assembled watch unlike its Swiss counterpart, the COSC that merely tests  non-cased movements. When a watch passes the Observatory’s stringent tests, it becomes certified as an Observatory Chronometer and receives a Bulletin de Marche from the Observatory, confirming the performance of the movement in the actual watch itself.

Dodane’s high quality stems from years of demandingly precise production for the French Air Force where the tolerance for failure is zero.  Every Dodane piece is a chronometer grade chronograph ready for the rigors of professional grade use.  Dodane is one of the only brands today entrusted to produce exclusive chronographs not only for the unwavering standards of the military, but discerning watch enthusiasts and collectors around the world. 

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS: TYPE 23

The Type 23 is Available in 2 Versions –

Automatic Flyback & Automatic

Case: 316L stainless steel, 42.5 mm in diameter, height 13.9 mm

Water resistant: 10 ATM/bars (100m/330ft)

Antireflective sapphire crystal

Case Back: 

Automatic Flyback Chronograph available in 2 versions –

Display case back with anti reflective sapphire crystal

Solid case back allowing for engraving

Automatic Chronograph –

Solid case back allowing for engraving

Bezel: Unidirectional ratcheting bezel

Available in 3 options

Black anodized

SS Brushed with inversed graduation

SS Polished

Dial: Available in 2 versions –

Black with white numerals

Black with yellow numerals (available in December 2012)

Hands and dial indexes treated with SuperLuminova®

Calibers:                                                                    

Available in 2 options

Automatic Flyback Chronograph                         

·          Automatic Chronograph Flyback Dubois Depraz: 42030
·         Caliber dimensions: diameter 30mm (or 13 1/4 line);  thickness: 6,5mm

·         Swiss Made

·         45 jewels

·        Chronometer Regulated

·       42-hour Power Reserve

·       Frequency 28,800 alt/h (4Hz)

·       1/5th second chronograph                            

Automatic Chronograph

·         Automatic Chronograph Dubois Depraz: 2030
      Caliber dimensions: diameter 30mm (or 13 1/4 line); thickness: 6,5mm

·         Swiss Made

·         45 rubies

·        Chronometer Regulated

·        42-hour Power Reserve

·       Frequency 28,800 alt/h (4Hz)

·       1/5th second chronograph

Straps:            Several options available

Stainless Steel Bracelet                                                                                                       

Rubber strap - Double folding buckle

Black or brown genuine alligator skin strap - Double folding buckle

Black or brown calf skin strap- Double folding buckle

NATO strap

PRICES

Chronograph Automatic flyback fine finish with display case back: $4,750

Chronograph Automatic flyback solid back: $4,500

Chronograph Automatic non-flyback with solid case back: $3,550

Anticipated Delivery: 08.2012

DODANE UPDATE!

I have to say that the DODANE post was perhaps one of the most visited on Tempus Fugit for some time. Lots of folks wanting to know where to find them. Well the good news is that here here in the US you will not have to wait too much longer.


And while we all wait for these fantastic watches to arrive on our shores, a few more images to dwell on 

Very nice detail on the movement.

The folks at Totally Worth It are bringing in the DODANE collection to the US, and they can connect you with a retail partner in your area.

Check them out at:  www.TotallyWorthIt.com

Don't call it a comeback - DODANE TYPE 21

Don't call it a comeback!

The DODANE family started making watches all the way back in 1857. Like many watch companies of its day, it was a father in-law (Francois-Xavier Joubert) and his son (Alphonse Dodane) who put things in motion. The Dodanes developed a fly-back chronograph, and with the development of the airplane, shifted their focus to equipping planes with timing devices.

DODANE would go on to become a supplier for NATO, and the DODANE TYPE 21 made its debut in 1956.

And then DODANE went silent in 1995 due to a rather unpleasant convergence of what the company has described as a bad French economic situation, past due invoices from large orders, and the shift to quartz technology.  In short, the same sort of reasons that several well known watch companies closed up during this time.

But then in 2001 the DODANE family revived the TYPE 21!  These are not cheesy knock-offs farmed out to cut-rate manufacturers - no indeed!  These are the real deal!

Designed by the Dodane's in France, and produced and hand-assembled in Switzerland.  And you can buy direct from the company!

Check them out for yourself at:  www.dodane1857.com

And a big thank you to Cedric Dodane for supplying the images you see here!