Nezumi has established itself over the past decade as a creator of distinctive and affordable timepieces, often leveraging unique color palettes to set its designs apart. Following recent updates to models like the Aviera GMT and Baleine diver, the brand has now unveiled a refreshed version of its acclaimed Voiture racing chronograph. This new iteration, the Voiture VM2, integrates a mechanical movement and subtle design enhancements, solidifying its place within Nezumi's core offerings.
The Voiture collection, first launched in 2015, has consistently drawn inspiration from the vibrant chronographs of the late 1960s and early 1970s. While these vintage influences inherently featured bold color schemes, Nezumi’s approach extends beyond mere imitation. The brand adeptly employs color to create timepieces that are both visually striking and authentically retro, demonstrating a keen understanding of aesthetic balance. The VM2 series introduces two distinct models: one in a classic black, gray, and white (VM2.202), and another in a more dynamic black, gray, orange, and cream (VM2.1102), with the latter receiving a hands-on examination. A notable upgrade across the VM2 series is the incorporation of a mechanical movement, departing from the mecha-quartz calibers previously used in the standard Voiture models. This mechanical transition, initially seen in the Voiture Chronograph's 10th Anniversary edition, elevates the series' appeal by offering enthusiasts a traditional watchmaking experience. These new mechanical versions are now a permanent addition, complementing the existing mecha-quartz options.
The Nezumi Voiture VM2 chronographs feature a 40mm diameter stainless steel case with a lug-to-lug measurement of 47mm and a water resistance of 100 meters. The overall thickness is a svelte 12.9mm, which includes a double-domed sapphire crystal, with the case itself measuring 11mm. The case is entirely brushed, boasting elegant lyre lugs with a 20mm lug spacing, and is topped with a fixed black bezel insert. On the right side, a knurled push-pull crown is flanked by two pump-style pushers for operating the chronograph functions. The dial layout includes a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock, a 12-hour totalizer at 9 o'clock, and a running seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock. The VM2.1102 model showcases a dynamic interplay of black, orange, and cream within its chronograph registers, set against a gray base dial and framed by a black "Zorro mask" design. Applied hour markers and hands are filled with Grade Xl Super-LumiNova, emitting a blue glow in low light, while the central chronograph hand adds a vibrant orange accent. Powering these new chronographs is the Peacock SL4801 caliber, an automatic column-wheel movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, featuring 41 jewels and a 55-hour power reserve. This movement, introduced in 2023 as part of Peacock's SL-4 family, represents a strategic choice for Nezumi to offer a robust mechanical option while maintaining affordability. The watch is offered with a choice of straps, including perforated rally-style leather in black or brown, canvas straps in moss-green or black, and a five-row Jubilee-style bracelet, allowing for personalization.
Wearing the Nezumi Voiture VM2.1102 provides a delightful blend of vintage aesthetics and modern wearability. Its thoughtfully proportioned case and slim profile ensure comfort on a variety of wrist sizes, a characteristic that has garnered praise from multiple testers. The robust construction is evident, reflecting Nezumi's commitment to quality control, with all watches assembled and inspected in Germany. The tactile feedback of the chronograph pushers, with their firm clicks, adds to the engaging user experience. The dial's captivating design consistently draws attention, highlighting the watch's thoughtful visual appeal. The Nezumi Voiture VM2 series, with its mechanical upgrade and accessible price point of €850 (or €902 on the bracelet, excluding VAT), stands out as a remarkable offering in the market for affordable mechanical chronographs. This release is a testament to Nezumi's continued innovation and dedication to crafting watches that are both stylish and mechanically satisfying, representing a significant advancement for their signature chronograph line.
