CX Swiss Military Watch is the brainchild of enigmatic Frank M. Bürgin. With roots dating back to 1926 the company currently produces a range of professional stylish diving watches.
In 2005 Frank and his highly skilled team of watchmakers won the world record for water resistance in automatic diving watches with their highly accomplished 12,000 Feet. Subsequently the Rolex Sea Dweller Deep Sea broke this record in 2008. A year later the 20,000 feet was introduced and reinstated the brand name into the Guinness Book of Records.
It is clear from numerous conversations with Frank that he is exceptionally passionate about his creations. The 20,000 feet is a culmination of many years work combining traditional watchmaking with state of the art technology. All CX Swiss Military Watches are designed and manufactured in Switzerland by parent company Montres Charmex SA. These professional timepieces have been used by several armed forces worldwide.
When writing a feature on any divers watch it hard not to draw the obvious comparison with the iconic Rolex Submariner. Aesthetically the 20,000 feet has a more contemporary styling and is significantly larger. The dimensions of this formidable timepiece measure a staggering 46mm x 28mm. CX Military have constructed the 20,000 Feet from high performance titanium, which should make the piece lightweight and highly durable. Realistically this unbelievably chunky timepiece won’t appeal to everyone but I love its robust appearance.
The CX Swiss Military 20,000 Feet is available in a choice of silver, black carbon, blue or yellow dials. My preference is definitely the carbon fiber as it perfectly contrasts with the large Superluminova™ indices and the red sub dials. Essentially the success of design lies in its simplicity. Every element of the composition has been well conceived and is integral to the functioning of the watch. Other important features include a unidirectional bezel and oversize pushers incorporated for ease of use with thick gloves. I also love the 10mm domed anti-reflective sapphire crystal. This gives the timepiece an incredibly distinctive side profile.
Like all other CX Swiss Military watches the 20,000 Feet is equipped with a highly proficient engine. This particular model features a Valjoux 7750, COSC chronometer-certified automatic chronograph. The mechanical movement comprises 25 jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 bph delivering a respectable 48-hour power reserve. As well as hours, minutes, seconds and chronograph this amazing timepiece is also equipped with a helium relief valve. Ultimately this is a high performance instrument designed for extreme measures of endurance.