Memosail Regatta Yacht Timer 'UFO' Chronograph, c. 1970s

Dealer description — Analog/Shift

Purpose-built watches have captured the minds and hearts of collectors for decades. Many have found an enduring place in the pantheon of classic designs even though they might not still be used for their intended purpose. During yachting regattas, so-called ‘yacht timers’ were equipped with special countdown functions that allowed a skipper to line up his vessel such that it would cross the start line exactly at the sounding of the starting gun. Of course, these watches also needed to be thoroughly water-resistant, first-rate timekeepers in and of themselves, and as a result, many robust, beautiful watches were developed by companies large and small. This particular regatta timer, dating to circa the 1970s, is from Swiss watchmaker Memosail. It features a 45.5mm stainless steel round case with shrouded lugs — allowing for a piece that wears far smaller that its dimensions would lead you to believe — barrel pushers, an acrylic crystal, a gloss blue Tritium dial with a white chapter ring, a yellow a 10-minute regatta timing disc within, and a matching handset with a bright orange seconds hand. Powered by a manually wound movement and paired to a fantastic signed blue rubber strap, this colorful regatta timer is an awesome artifact from the pre-digital days of sport timing. With a case design that feels comfortable on the wrist, this delightful yachting timer will surely have your yacht timing needs covered, whether you're skippering a yacht or watching from the safety of the pier, cocktail firmly in hand. We know you’ll love it as much as we do!