Thomas Earnshaw Black Investigator Chronograph Watch ES-8090-03

The Investigator 2 Chronograph is an update on an earlier version of the Investigator which became one of the most iconic timepieces in the collection. While the 43mm in diameter trench-like case remains almost identical, subtle updates pronounce this watch as a new and worthwhile renovation of the original. The trench case design first appeared during World War I when pocket watches were refashioned to sit on the wrist rather than in the pocket. To do this, original pocket watches had extra lugs welded to allow leather straps to fit through them and to strap on to the wearer for a more practical fit. With a gently domed mineral crystal lens with sapphire coating, the watch houses a precise Japanese chronograph movement with a dual sub-dial layout in a contrasting color and vintage-like font used to demarcate each readout.

The dial itself has been carefully and precisely designed featuring a right-hand side etched geometric matrix pattern and a cleaner finish on the left-hand side of the dial. With a contrasting colour minute track, the overall outlook is that of depth, volume, and interest. Breguet hands match the brushed finished applied roman numerals at the hour to complete the watch perfectly.

The piston-like pushers and the vintage pumpkin style crown echo the pocket watch origins in the design of the Investigator. With a snug fit, the watch hugs the wrist courtesy of a supple genuine leather strap that affixes via the signature “E” buckle developed exclusively for Earnshaw.

Thomas Earnshaw is revered as a legend and pioneer in the field of Horology. Born in Manchester, England in 1749, he was celebrated for his work in refining, and improving upon the Marine Chronometers of the era. It was those Marine Chronometers, crucial to the journeys taken by the boats in the Royal Navy as they circled the globe during a golden era in English history of science and exploration. None more so than Chronometer no. 506, carried by HMS Beagle which carried Charles Darwin on his journey around the world to inspire his breakthrough study of evolution, "On The Origin of Species". Lauded for his work with marine chronometers, Earnshaw also embraced the challenge of developing clocks for use in Observatories such as those in Greenwich and Armagh and examples of his exquisite work can be seen in museums and auction houses around the world. It is this pioneering spirit to further the science of horology, coupled with a drive for excellence in craftsmanship that is at the heart of the Earnshaw timepiece which is available for the watch connoisseur and enthusiast alike.