Amazing design doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg, it can be found at any price range if you know where to look. Mondaine found their inspiration for creating affordable yet stylish watches by looking at the heritage of the Swiss Federal Railway (SBB), leading to popular creations like the evo2 – an accessible quartz watch. Now, the evo2 is evolving with a new collection that brings it up to contemporary watchmaking standards and, excitingly, adds an automatic movement to the formula.
Aesthetically, the evo2 already had a strong design so I’m glad that Mondaine aren’t messing with it too much. The dial is an homage to the famous SBB Railways Clock that was created in 1944 by Hans Hilfiker – the strong, bold shapes following in the legacy of the Bauhaus movement from a few years earlier.
The result is that the evo2 is very minimalist, focussing on the essential aspects of timekeeping, with just time and date. Aside from the minute track and hands, the only aesthetic adornment is the inclusion of the SBB logo that marks the partnership between the watchmaker and the railway and few other small inscriptions.
The primary changes with the update are very small but together they help to improve the overall watch wearing experience. The stainless steel case has been given a softer shape, making it more rounded and giving a pleasing sense of completeness as the curve now smoothly blends into the sapphire caseback. The crown and lugs have also been adjusted, slightly changing how the watch sits on your wrist and making operating the watch a bit easier.
Of course, the thing that most collectors will be happy about is the addition of the automatic movement. While there have been automatic evo2 timepieces in the past, they have been a distinct minority with limited options, making a dedicated collection overdue. It goes without saying that for a brand as steeped in Swiss heritage as Mondaine the only route is to go Swiss-made and the Sellita SW220-1 calibre is their go-to. Sure, it only has a 38-hour power reserve but it’s a proper workhorse movement and keeps the evo2 Automatic at an accessible price.
As I mentioned briefly, if you wanted an automatic evo2 previously you really didn’t have many options. Now, they’re available at 35mm and 40mm sizing and come with a choice of mesh bracelet or leather strap with a few colour choices. Both sizes are the same price so it’s really down to your preference which you go for. There is a price difference between straps, but if you opt for the bracelet they’re £599 and £549 on leather, so it’s not exactly breaking the bank either way.
Price & Specs:
Model: Mondaine Evo2 Automatic
Case/Dial: 35mm or 40mm diameter, stainless steel, white dial
Movement: Sellita SW220-1, automatic, 26 jewels
Water Resistance: 100m (10 bar)
Frequency: 28,800 vph (4 Hz)
Power Reserve: 38h
Functions: Hour, minute, second, day-date
Strap: Red or black leather or mesh stainless bracelet
Price/Availability: £549 (leather strap) or £599 (mesh bracelet)
More details at Mondaine.
