The case

I always feel sorry for the designers of watch cases. Their role is tough and, like the younger sister at a family function, they have to sit back and allow their attention seeking older sisters, dial and movement, take all the glory. The case of the Angelus U30 Tourbillon Rattrapante could easily have assumed the role of younger sister, considering the propensity of the display to showboat and delight, however, look closely and there is much beauty and interest to be found with the case of this watch.

Measuring 47mm in diameter, the grade 5 titanium case is generously proportioned but provides an agreeable union with the wrist. When worn, the case appears much smaller than its specification sheet would suggest. Furthermore, the case height of 15mm does not feel as significant when the timepiece is affixed to the arm, probably owing to some of the height being attributable to the airy sapphire crystal. The bezel is slender, prominently angled and highly polished. In contrast, the black caseband is unassuming, appearing to evince an almost covert character. Punctuating the muted surface of the caseband, the chronograph pushpieces add a soupçon of brushed detail, enhancing visual interest. Indeed, it is the profusion of design features which will delight prospective purchasers.

The lugs are graceful, sharply tapering down, inviting the strap to envelope the wearer's wrist. They could almost appear classical in profile, if it were not for the open-worked vertical flanks which add a further dose of modernity.
Some of our most observant readers may ponder the whereabouts of the split-seconds chronograph push-piece. It is not located at the customary 10 o'clock position, but integrated into the crown, granting the watch a very neat appearance.