Hands-On With The BA111OD Chapter 7 Chronometer Forest Green
Writing about watches from a distance can be a challenging task. Sure, it’s easy enough to understand the specifications, finishing methods, and purpose of a new release. However, seeing is believing. Then again, there are times when coming face to face with a potentially desirable watch ends in disappointment. Thankfully, the BA111OD Chapter 7 is a piece that delivers on more than specifications alone. We spent time with the Forest Green version on the bracelet, and here are my thoughts.
The folks at BA111OD know that they have a tricky brand name. If one sees and pronounces it (using every ounce of a questionable understanding of French) as Baillod, then all is well. Consider the current guise as a modern take on the surname of founder Thomas Baillod. Since 2019, the brand has released seven model series, known as “Chapters,” at various price points. Regardless of price, BA111OD relies on the direct sale of its watches via the website, a handful of stores, and, interestingly, referrals from existing customers. Watches like the latest Chapter 7 depend on a combination of all these sales strategies for success, but it’s clear that the watch still needs to be executed well. Is it? Let’s see.
The BA111OD Chapter 7 Chronometer Forest Green
When BA111OD announced the Chapter 7 in February, we covered the release in detail. In general, the comments were favorable because of the design and affordability. However, the brand name and model name — Chapter 7 means liquidation of a business in the USA — received some heat. Still, we’re here for the watches, so let’s summarize the specs.
The Chapter 7 is a 40mm by 47mm stainless steel watch available on an integrated bracelet or rubber strap. We opted to test the former since it’s likely the more popular choice. The watch hits a sweet spot with a 10.5mm thickness, including sapphire crystals on both sides of the case. A 100m depth rating also ensures that the Chapter 7 can perform during the vast majority of life’s activities.
The movement certification is impressive
Using a Soprod P024 with 38 hours of power reserve isn’t overly exciting. No, the interesting part is that the watch has an official chronometer certification. More than that, Timelab of Geneva tests each movement and provides a performance report with each watch, which will be accurate to within +6/-4 seconds per day. With a price of CHF 880 / €950 / US$1,045 on the bracelet and CHF 820 / €895 / US$990 on a rubber strap, there’s serious potential value here. Of course, if the watch is only about the specs and wears like a junky toy, then it amounts to being all steak and no sizzle. Thankfully, that’s not the case at all.
The Chapter 7 is lovely in the hand and on the wrist
BA111OD was a participant at Time To Watches, an event next to Watches and Wonders in Geneva. While there, I carved out time to sit down with the brand and test the watches. After seeing several references, it was time to check out the watch I came to see. The Chapter 7 is a very good-looking piece, and while it’s not unique among the growing number of 1970s-inspired sports watches, it has enough going for it to differentiate itself. The other observation is that the watch feels great in the hand. There’s a fluidity to the bracelet, which feels neither too thick nor too thin. Too often, microbrand watches feel chunky in the hand and built-to-cost. Somehow, the BA111OD Chapter 7 avoids that with nice edges, sharp transitions between polished and brushed surfaces, and a great bracelet.
Regarding integrated-bracelet watches, I often find that they’re comfortable out of the chute but frequently feel like a constraining cuff after some time. The Chapter 7 blends a likeable case size with a comfortable bracelet that makes for a seamless fit.
Plus, the clasp is wonderful with its sliding-lever toolless micro-adjustment system. Did we mention that the links use screws for removal? Honestly, when a small brand like BA111OD can equip its sub-CHF 1,000 watches with a bracelet as nice as this, the excuses for larger brands are out the window.
A controversial crown location
In our original article, there were some comments about the Chapter 7 and its crown at 4 o’clock. Some folks weren’t fans. It’s a bit of a Seiko move, and in my view, it’s nice to see something a bit different in this genre. Brands like to mention the increase in comfort with this placement. Frankly, I’ve never had an issue wherever the crown is placed, but I’m fine with the look, and I’d struggle to see it as a deal-maker or breaker.
Enter the matrix on the guilloché dial
The Chapter 7’s dial has what BA111OD calls a cascading guilloché pattern. From my vantage point, it looks like digital rain from The Matrix films. It’s cool and, like the crown, looks a bit different from the norm. If anything, and I don’t have an idea on how it could be done, I’d like to see it more pronounced. Still, for those who aren’t big on dial texture, this design doesn’t overwhelm. Similarly, the applied and faceted indexes are appropriately sized and allow for a clean look. In dark environments, the Super-LumiNova on the indexes and hands emits a legible blue glow.
Final thoughts on the BA111OD Chapter 7
It’s hard to dislike what BA111OD has done with the Chapter 7. Yes, the chronometer-certified movement is a huge draw, but the entire package is worth a look. The brand didn’t simply opt for an accurate movement and surround it with cheap, second-class fittings. This is a comfortable watch that doesn’t need to apologize despite its bargain-basement price. It’s nice to see this type of offering within an industry where even some of the most dependable names have raised prices to well over the four-figure mark in any currency. There’s a future for affordable watches with great specs and build quality, and BA111OD is in the running as a leader.
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