Hands-on with the BALL Roadmaster Chronograph No. 999 Limited Edition Watches

Ball has released two limited edition chronographs, each exclusive to 1000 pieces worldwide with distinct Roadmaster DNA. Just some advantages include a magnetic resistance of 4,800A/m, a 200-meter water resistance, a chronograph 12-hour function and 30-minute function and the brand’s innovative Micro Gas Tube technology.

Ball Watch Company is known for its accurate mechanical watches that continue the legacy of Webster Clay Ball, founder of the company. The intention behind each wristwatch is to provide “accuracy under adverse conditions” and by doing so, they instil a sense of confidence in the wearer. The inspiration behind Ball watches came about in 1891, motivated by a fatal train journey that could have been avoided if not for a faltering watch. Over the years, Ball watches have improved in technical function, materials and features but all are designed to face the harsh demands of a daring and adventurous lifestyle and are perfectly geared to the needs of extreme explorers, mountaineers, hikers, search & rescue teams, and deep sea divers (the list goes on).

What makes Ball watches so special?

One reason why consumers turn to Ball watches time and time again is the brand’s commitment to sourcing highly reliable and long-lasting materials that are designed to ultimately stand the test of time. For example, the 904L stainless steel used for its watches is resistant to corrosion, acid and rust, whilst the band’s rigorous testing system ensures that each design is up to scratch before it is ready to leave the manufacturing facility based in La Chaux de Fonds. Every Ball watch is tested for its durability and strength, with exposure to extreme temperatures and rigorous assessments proving routine for the company. Small adjustments can be made in Ball’s approach to watchmaking based on the findings of its tests, such as altering the height of the bimetallic spring, for example, or making adequate changes to the bridge and mainplate of a movement to improve performance. Some models also have anti-magnetic properties, making them particularly useful for explorers and adventure-seekers. Other tests such as subjecting its watches to external shock prove that some Ball watches can be durable and functional when faced with forces up to 7,500Gs.

One technology that Ball Watch Company is most known for, however, goes by the name of Night Reading Evolution. It uses the power of micro gas tubes to provide sufficient light across the key element so the dial, enabling you to tell the time when in dark conditions or during the night. Paired with features like helium escape valves and impressive water-resistant capabilities, Ball watches are some of the most reliable out there in the market.

The new Ball Roadmaster Chronograph No. 999 watches

The Ball Railroad watch collection is a diverse series of wristwatches aimed at those in charge of guiding railroad infrastructure. Developed from unique materials and integrated with robust resistance technology, the two Roadmaster Chronograph No. 999 Limited Edition watches are fitted with the brand’s micro gas tube technology, making them incredible tools for wearing day and night. Ball Watch Company has recently released two models for this collection. Both are limited edition chronographs and both are crafted from lightweight titanium, measuring a 42mm diameter. The key feature that separates the two chronographs apart are the chronograph counters placed along the north and south axis of the dial. Arranged in a bi-compax layout, the models offer a 30-minute counter and a 12-hour counter respectively and are finished in different colours. The reference DC3230B-S7-BK features tone-on-tone counters with a visible day-date feature in white at 3 o’clock, whilst the reference DC3230B-S7-BKWH features silver-filled sub-scales.

Limited to 1000 models each, these two new Ball Roadmaster Chronograph No. 999 watches are equipped with the company’s innovative Micro Gas Tube technology meaning that one glance is all you need for expert timekeeping whilst out exploring. This self-powered luminosity is 100 times better than conventional lume material and lasts for a minimum of 10 years. Safely sealing pure tritium gas inside its lightweight mineral gas tubes, phosphor powder in different colours enables the numerals and hands of a Ball watch to glow brightly in an array of colours once the tritium emits electrons. The coating inside the tubes gives off a bright light without posing any risk of radioactive levels to the wearer.

Inside the 200-meter water-resistant titanium case of each of these two new Ball Roadmaster Chronograph No. 999 watches is the Calibre BALL RR1409., which provides a power reserve of 62 hours. The movement sits inside the case, measuring a height of 14.8mm and is housed behind a sapphire crystal glass caseback. With a magnetic resistance of up to 4,800A/m and a strong piece of anti-reflective sapphire crystal glass upon its front, the new limited edition Roadmaster watch is perfect for any challenge. Its tachymeter scale on the flange sits close to a unidirectional rotating bezel that can be aligned with the minute hand on the dial for effortless measuring of elapsed time. In addition to the Micro Gas Tube technology seen in the hands and hour markers of the watch, the central chronograph second hand has also received a shot of red colour for a touch of definition and detail to the design. This same colour is echoed in the circlets around the push-pieces flanking a screwed-down crown at 3 o’clock and both watches are also fitted on a titanium link bracelet with a folding clasp.

If you’d like more information on the new Ball Roadmaster Chronograph No. 999 Limited Edition watches and would like to own one of the 1000 pieces on either design, you can place a pre-order for these with our Jura Watches team in time for December by calling 01335 453453.