The Glashutte Original PanoMaticChrono XL watch is a veritable must-have for devotees of fine chronographs.  Few chronograph watches can unite elegance and idiosyncratic design elements with such effectiveness; throw a truly world-class manufacture chronograph movement into the mix and you have a superb wristwatch. 

This Glashutte Original timepiece features a 42mm case in polished 18K white or rose gold.  The dial is a real masterpiece of intricate detailing, and has a look unlike any other watch–the off-centered time display instantly defines this watch among those in the know, as is the striking central chronograph seconds dial, which is elevated, and rises above the hour and minute counters.  The craftsmanship is truly beautiful.  Equally impressive is the Caliber 95-01 movement, with its intricate architecture that unites traditional elements of high quality (such as a column wheel), with ingenious features such as an exclusive bi-directional rotor system, which can optimize its winding motions to account for varied levels of activity in its wearer.  

Bigger isn’t always better.  However, with the PanoMaticChrono XL, Glashutte Original aesthetically one-upped the smaller (39.4mm) PanoMaticChrono watch, which uses the same movement and has the same displays.  Why?  Well, to my eyes, the unique overlapping chronograph displays appear more harmonious, and less “crowded” when given the benefit of those three extra millimeters.  While the PanoMaticChrono is undeniably nice, the 42mm PanoMaticChrono XL is like Goldilocks’s porridge–”just right!”