Tsao Baltimore made their entry into the market several years back, introducing their Founder’s Edition dress watch. However, personally, I found it to be a bit bulky. Over time, they have released several impressive designs, all drawing inspiration from their hometown or notable landmarks there. While some of their creations may seem familiar, their latest model, the Legacy, marks a significant milestone in their journey since the Constellation Chronograph—a mecaquartz chronograph paying homage to the renowned Baltimore boat.
The Tsao Baltimore Legacy serves as undeniable evidence of their growth and evolution. Available in two variations—a dual-crown watch with GMT functionality or a three-hand version featuring an internal 12-hour bezel (as examined in this review)—the Legacy retains the Constellation’s case while incorporating exciting new elements that elevate it to unparalleled heights. Without hesitation, I can confidently declare it as their finest timepiece to date.
On the wrist
The focal point of the Tsao Baltimore Legacy timepiece lies in its captivating dial, which exhibits a vibrant fumé shade that gracefully transforms into a lush forest green, depending on the interplay of light. This delightful variability in color adds to the watch’s appeal when worn on the wrist. One can experience the complete fumé effect, revel in the deep green hue, or find themselves somewhere in between. Additionally, the sandwich dial design introduces a sense of depth that serves as a delightful bonus.
While the dial takes precedence, I must also express my admiration for the chamfer that gracefully adorns the case’s edges on both sides. However, the most significant aspect of the case design lies in its short and sharply angled lugs. Looking closely, particularly in cases with a somewhat tall and tonneau shape, it becomes evident that having lugs that seamlessly blend with the case and gently transition onto the wrist is immensely beneficial. Take a moment to appreciate the gentle slope of the endlink!
The Y-link bracelet is designed for utmost comfort, and despite the distinctive lugs, the lug box allows for the effortless attachment of various straps, including NATO styles. Even when paired with a strap, the lugs contribute to a smooth and comfortable wearing experience, ensuring a seamless integration with the wrist.
Dial
The Tsao Baltimore Legacy comes in a variety of attractive colors, including green, purple, grey, and blue. Each option is equally vibrant, and it’s difficult to make a wrong choice. The purple color pays homage to the hometown football team, The Ravens. Although I have the green version for review, I must admit that achieving the right shade of purple can be challenging. However, the brushing and fumé finish on this watch manage to make it work exceptionally well.
One delightful detail is how the brushing on the hands mirrors the brushed texture on the dial. Additionally, I had recently mentioned my preference for a sandwich dial with gentle, rounded edges on the cutouts, and it seems that my wish has been granted. Take a look at how the corners and sides lack sharpness but instead feature a pleasing curvature. When combined with the beveled date window positioned next to the abbreviated hour marker, it creates an appealing aesthetic. Moreover, there’s something incredibly satisfying about the symmetrical placement of two lengthy words on the dial: BALTIMORE|MARYLAND.
I don’t need to emphasize how impressive the luminescence is on this watch, but I must commend the decision to illuminate the triangle on the rotating inner bezel. And let me correct myself, the luminescence is not just good—it’s exceptional.
Case and Bracelet
I appreciate the thoughtful texturing on the crowns, which provides a tactile distinction. The upper crown adjusts the bezel, while the lower one manages the date and time. Another notable detail is the continuation of the lines on the undercut of the profile, which has been a consistent design element across all Tsao Baltimore watches since the company’s establishment.
The endlinks seamlessly blend with the lugs, giving the impression that they were crafted from the same material as the case. The ease with which they slide in and out, thanks to the quick-release spring bars, further accentuates this seamless integration. Once again, I must highlight the exquisite chamfer and the polished edge surrounding the bezel, akin to the crispness of a newly opened bag of Doritos (although I don’t recommend eating the watch).
The Y-link bracelet serves as an alternative to the Vacheron Constantin Y-link, which features the brand’s iconic Maltese cross logo. It exhibits a brilliant design that enhances the mobility of the links and, consequently, adds comfort to the overall wearing experience. The links are secured using a pin-and-collar system, which can be a bit challenging to size accurately. Although it offers the highest level of security, it may prove to be slightly inconvenient. As for the ratcheting clasp, it is a popular choice among microbrands. However, it often falls short when paired with watches that have insufficiently thick links to accommodate it. This is not the case with the Tsao Baltimore Legacy, making it one of the few watches I have come across that successfully incorporates this clasp without any drawbacks.
Movement
Tsao Baltimore has joined forces with an innovative local movement provider to enhance the Legacy. The movement for this timepiece has been carefully selected from Maryland Watch Works, a renowned establishment that specializes in assembling and regulating the MD-1 automatic movement in their facility located in Hagerstown, MD. This exceptional movement, which closely resembles the ETA 2824, rivals its counterpart in terms of size, accuracy, and reliability. To ensure optimal performance, the movement will be regulated to maintain a remarkable precision of -/+ 8 seconds per day. Notably, the Legacy will feature a distinct touch with a customized blacked-out rotor, harmonizing with the movement itself.
Final Notes
The name Legacy is not only fitting but also audacious, conveying their determination to establish a lasting presence in the industry. What sets the Tsao Baltimore Legacy apart is not only its remarkable comfort but also its breathtaking fumé sandwich dial. As a resident of the same state and with familial ties to its birthplace, this watch holds a special significance for me.
The Legacy collection offers a wide range of options, including bronze variations, GMT functionality, and four distinct dial colors. With such diversity, you have the opportunity to choose from 16 unique Legacy models. The availability of each model will be limited, with 75 units of the 3-handers and 25 units of the GMTs. Priority access to these exclusive timepieces will be granted to those who join the waitlist for the preorder, which is currently open. By signing up, you can secure the privilege of pre-order pricing.
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