Ball Watch and CronotempVs Collectors Unite to Create the 00BLU 40mm
Following the success of the exclusive 00Red 43mm model launched in 2022, CronotempVs Collectors and Ball Watch Co. now present the limited-edition 00BLU 40mm.
This second chapter was created to fulfill the desire of numerous brand enthusiasts to wear the same watch but in a smaller size.
The characteristics of the 00BLU remain the same as its predecessor. It is based on the Engineer III model, maintaining all its qualities and focusing on the distinctive feature that defines all Ball Watches—tritium microtubes. For this edition, two colors were chosen: blue and white. Since midnight is also known as the “zero hour,” the design emphasizes blue tritium in the two “00” markers instead of the traditional 12 o’clock marker. This decision highlights Ball Watches’ superior visibility compared to other luminous timepieces. Thus, the 00BLU 40mm by Ball Watch Co. was born.
A Tribute to American Progress
If there is one symbol of American progress, it is the railroad. Railroads played a crucial role in the establishment of the United States, unifying the country through an extensive steel network.
Following a tragic and well-known railway accident, Webb C. Ball was appointed in July 1891 as the Chief Inspector of the Lake Shore Line. One of his missions was to investigate timekeeping conditions throughout the railway system and develop an inspection system to improve accuracy. As a result, Webb C. Ball introduced periodic checks on railway workers’ watches. This unwavering demand for infallible precision, combined with optimal readability, has been ingrained in all Ball Watches to this day.
In homage to the tragic event that led to the founding of Ball Watch Co., CronotempVs Collectors has decided to limit the production of the 00BLU to 91 units, just like the 00RED.
A True “Tool Watch”
The 00BLU is a testament to the concept of a “tool watch” in all its pragmatism. Without unnecessary features or excessive complications, the 00BLU is designed solely to tell time in any situation. Its core characteristics, listed below, make it a highly reliable companion for all occasions.
33 Tritium Microtubes
The tritium gas microtubes illuminating the dial of the 00BLU provide 100 times more intensity than traditional luminescent treatments. Ball Watch uses cutting-edge technology to safely contain tritium gas (H₃) inside luminescent mineral glass tubes. These H₃ gas tubes are small, precise, lightweight, and produced using CO2 laser technology. They are securely attached to the hands and dial to prevent breakage, ensuring that the wearer of a Ball Watch is never exposed to radiation. Additionally, Ball’s tritium microtubes do not require charging from sunlight or any external power source.
904L Stainless Steel Case
The 00BLU features a case made of 904L stainless steel, an ultra-durable alloy containing additional chromium, molybdenum, nickel, and copper. This unique composition makes it exceptionally resistant to extreme conditions. Aesthetically, 904L steel provides an outstanding polished finish that improves over time.
Anti-Magnetic System – 1,000 Gauss
Ball Watch chose mu-metal to develop an anti-magnetic case inside the watch. Mu-metal is an alloy of nickel, iron, copper, and molybdenum, known for its high magnetic permeability, which allows it to attract and divert static or low-frequency magnetic fields. This technology protects the mechanical movement from magnetic fields up to 1,000 Gauss.
Shock Resistance – Up to 5,000 Gs
Like all Ball Watches, the 00BLU meets the highest durability standards and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure resistance to shocks of up to 5,000 Gs. These tests comply with ISO 1413, using impact-testing machines that simulate real-world conditions. The movement undergoes a controlled pendulum drop test from 1 meter to verify its resilience.
COSC-Certified Precision
At the heart of the 00BLU beats the RR1103-C automatic caliber, COSC-certified by the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute. This certification guarantees optimal timekeeping accuracy.
00BLU by Ball Watch Co. for CronotempVs Collectors
Case: 40mm in 904L steel
Movement: COSC-certified, automatic
Functions: hours, minutes and central seconds
Dial: anthracite with 33 micro tubes with tritium gas
Water resistance: 100 meters/330 feet
Bracelet: steel 904L
Limited edition 91 units
Price 2.200 Euros (ex. IVA)
