Traska Chronograph

As a watch enthusiast who spends plenty of time in Facebook groups where independent brands are discussed, Traska is a name I see recommended again and again. Owners consistently share their satisfaction with their watches, and it’s easy to understand why. Since Jon Mack founded the company in 2018, Traska has built a reputation for creating high‑quality, thoughtfully engineered watches at genuinely accessible prices. Their debut model, the Freediver, set the tone - and every release since has reinforced the brand’s commitment to refinement, durability and honest value. The Chronograph, Traska’s latest and most premium addition priced at $1,650 USD, continues that trajectory with a level of execution that stands out in the microbrand space.

The Case

The case is crafted from 316L stainless steel but hardened to 1200HV, making it roughly six times more scratch‑resistant than standard steel - a treatment that hugely enhances real‑world durability and remains one of Traska’s signature advantages. The most intriguing element, however, is the tungsten tachymeter bezel. Tungsten - derived from the Swedish term for “heavy stone” - is denser, harder, and more scratch‑resistant than steel, with exceptional corrosion and heat resistance. Commonly found in demanding applications such as drill bits, aerospace components, and even lightbulb filaments, tungsten is a premium choice of material for a bezel built to endure. Its use - also seen in watches from popular independent brands such as Venezianico - further underscores the emphasis on durability and long-term resilience.

The Dial

The Traska Chronograph features a purposeful grey dial that leans toward a more tougher , tool-watch aesthetic, contrasted by two silver subdials that add both clarity and visual depth. One tracks the running seconds, while the other is dedicated to chronograph timing. What sets the dial apart, however, is Traska’s decision to replace traditional subdial hands with rotating discs - a less common execution that introduces a more contemporary, almost instrument-like feel to the display. Subtle touches of red, seen on the central chronograph seconds hand and within the subdial markings, inject a measured sense of energy without overwhelming the overall design. A circular date aperture positioned just above 6 o’clock maintains the symmetry of the layout while adding a layer of everyday practicality. The applied indices and diamond-cut hands are filled with Swiss Super-LumiNova, to ensure clear legibility in low-light conditions.

Movement

At the heart of the watch is the NE86 automatic chronograph movement from Time Module Inc (a subsidiary of Seiko). Compared to many Swiss automatic chronograph calibres, the NE86 is relatively slim, allowing for a more wearable case profile without compromising on functionality. This movement has also been seen in models such as the Yema Speedgraph and Kuo Royal Smith, reinforcing its position as a capable and well-regarded chronograph engine.

In terms of performance, the movement offers a power reserve of approximately 45 hours. Traska has further refined it by regulating the calibre in four positions to improve timekeeping consistency. After regulation, the NE86 typically runs within a range of -10 to +20 seconds per day, while maintaining around 45 hours of power when fully wound.

Technically, the NE86 features a column wheel chronograph architecture, a detail often associated with higher-end chronographs. This results in a smoother pusher feel, with more precise and refined engagement when starting, stopping, and resetting the chronograph functions. The movement also includes manual winding capability, adding a layer of practicality for everyday use.

Other details and final thoughts

Beyond its distinctive chronograph architecture, the Traska Chronograph brings a number of practical strengths to its appeal as an everyday automatic watch. A 75 meters water resistance rating provides a useful degree of versatility for daily use, while the screw-down crown adds reassurance. The stainless steel bracelet, tapering from 21mm to 16mm, also features a tool-less micro-adjustment system for added convenience and comfort. The watch is also offered with a three-year warranty, which stands out, particularly as a two-year warranty remains more common among many independent brands. In conclusion, the Traska Chronograph presents a persuasive proposition for those seeking an automatic chronograph from a respected independent brand that has earned the recognition for delivering watches that are strong value for money.