Corbeau is a mil-spec style chronograph and the latest addition to the watch collection from Nezumi® Studios. The Swedish brand specializes in vintage looking watches with references to the 1960s and 70s and is known for uncompromising attention to detail. The Corbeau chronograph is no exception!
The inspiration for the mil-spec style Corbeau
The Corbeau chronograph is a mil-spec style chronograph with retro vibes from the 1960s and 70s. Designer and founder of Nezumi® Studios, David Campo explains that the inspiration comes from icons like the Swedish Air Force issue Lemania “Viggen” and German Heuer Bundeswehr ref. 1550 SG from the 1970s, to name a few.
Each element of the timepiece is carefully designed while both respecting traditions, honoring the past and carefully updating the look for a modern chronograph that stands out from the crowd. While the other Nezumi models come with a leather strap, the Corbeau is born with a premium laser-cut nylon NATO strap. This is the perfect choice for the watch and both practical and comfortable: every watch lover should have at least one NATO strap!
“The Corbeau is a timeless classic with an authentic military vibe and retro style cues”
Dimensions and specifications
The 40mm wide case (47mm lug to lug) is the optimal size to match the retro vibe of the chronograph. Compared to the Loews model, it looks slightly smaller due to the bezel but the dimensions are actually exactly the same. Corbeau has a very well-balanced look and the color palette of the REF. CQ2.202 is just amazing! David Campo has done it again and managed to create a subtle and yet super interesting color combination with vintage black, off-white and mustard.
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Even the Swiss Luminova on the dial and hands have a nice vintage color that ties everything together, adds character and underlines the military references. Thanks to the Arabic numerals and the anti-reflective double domed genuine sapphire crystal glass it’s very easy to read the time and the uni-directional rotating bezel adds extra functionality. If you want to emphasize the military and tactical look, the included NATO strap is just the perfect match. To transform the look, you can also change to the Stewart Jubilee bracelet which we just love on the CORBEAU REF. CQ2.202.
“Each element of the timepiece is carefully designed while both respecting traditions, honoring the past and carefully updating the look for a modern chronograph that stands out from the crowd”
Features of the Corbeau chronograph
The Corbeau chronograph has a gorgeous symmetrical design with depth and details thanks to the three sub-dials, the rotating bezel and the vintage palette. The brushed case takes less attention compared to the partly polished case of the Loews and perfectly complements the military-inspired design. Thanks to the matte black turning bezel you really notice the vintage black color of the dial. You still have Nezumi features like the logo printed on the dial, the engraved “N” on the crown and the case back with the brand but the center seconds chronograph hand is kept clean and the strap just has a small “Nezumi” engraved in the brushed buckle.
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Review conclusion: a timeless classic with an authentic military vibe
When I first discovered Nezumi® Studios a couple of years ago, I was instantly attracted to the Voiture…but ended up buying a Loews for my husband (don’t ask, but you can read the story about the Loews right here). However, the Corbeau has since then really grown on me and when seeing a picture with the Stewart Jubilee bracelet fitted (image below), I was just in love! And now that we have the bracelet…we still ended up keeping the lovely grey NATO strap on for the most parts and now and then switching to the bracelet. It’s just so comfortable!
To really appreciate the vintage look and the beautiful palette chosen for this model, you have to see the watch in person…and then it’s all that you see. For everyday-use the NATO strap is a great option – especially for the warmer days – and the grey version has just the perfect tone for the Mil-spec style Chronograph. After having worn the watch on the NATO strap for a couple of weeks, everything still looks brand new and the watch has attracted curious eyes and several compliments.
The Corbeau is a timeless classic with an authentic military vibe and retro style cues. As always when it comes to Nezumi® Studios watches, you get great quality for your money and a unique design that stands out compared to other brands in the same category.
The Corbeau chronograph by Nezumi® Studios is available in four editions – see the entire Nezumi® Studios watch collection here.
CORBEAU REF. CQ2.202 Chronograph specifications
DIAL & HANDS:
- Vintage black dial / off-white sub-dials with circular texture
- Off-white hour, minute and Chrono hands / black sub-dial hands
- Vintage colored Swiss Luminova on dial and hands
CASE:
- Double domed genuine sapphire crystal glass with AR ( anti-reflective ) coating on the inside
- Brushed 316L Stainless Steel case
- Drilled through lugs for spring bars
- Diameter: 40mm excluding crown
- Lug to lug: 47mm
- Total height incl. domed sapphire glass: 13mm
- Height excl. glass: 11.25mm
- Lug width: 20mm
- 120 click unidirectional turning bezel
- Push down crown with N logo
- Screw down machined case back with branding
- Waterproof to 5 ATM
NATO STRAP:
- Premium laser-cut nylon
- 20mm width
- 270mm long excluding the buckle
- Brushed 316L Stainless Steel hardware inc. our branded buckle
MOVEMENT:
- VK63 mecha-quartz hybrid movement by Seiko
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