We reviewed the Marchand Legacy back in April, and we were impressed by the bold design but noted that it was a watch you would either love or hate. The brand is back with a new series of watches – the Marchand LMP collection – which includes their first chronograph.
First Impressions – the Marchand LMP Collection

A chronograph complication is really at home in a racing watch, and so we were glad to hear it is an option in Marchand’s latest series. LMP stands for “Le Mans Prototype”, a name that all motor racing fans will be familiar with. They’ve gone for a 1970s*vibe, with a choice of Japanese quartz movements – a basic three-hander or a chronograph. They share the same 43mm case with Marchand’s characteristic chequered case-back. The crown will be signed (not shown on the prototype photos here) and the watch comes on a quality leather strap.
Marchand LMP Collection – Specifications

  • Case: 316L All Stainless Steel, Polished and Brushed Steel
  • Case Size: 43mm
    Movement: Japan Quartz/Chronograph Quartz
  • Glass: Mineral Crystal
  • Water Resistant: 10ATM (100M)
  • Caseback: Chequered Print
  • Strap: Genuine Leather
  • Lug: 22mm
  • Warranty: 24 Months

Marchand LMP Collection – First Impressions

Whereas Marchand’s first two models were a bit of an acquired taste, we think this new model looks great. The cushion case and round dial have just the right balance between sportiness and retro-appeal – and the watch looks like it won’t have the legibility issues that marred some of the Marchand Legacy models. We like the*24-month warranty and love the zip-up travel cases that Marchand supply.
Downsides? Watch enthusiasts tend to prefer automatic movements for three-handers and the Miyota OS20 has a “ticking” second hand when the chronograph is engaged unlike the smooth running Seiko VK64 that is commonly found at this price point. The choice of mineral glass rather than sapphire is, in our opinion, a cost-cutting measure too far.

Overall, we think that these watches have a mass-market appeal and we can see them selling outside of the watch-obsessive microbrand world – and*the prices are very competitive compared to similarly specified watches on the high street.
Buy a Marchand LMP Watch

Production of the Marchand LMP collection has already begun, with an expected release date of early November. Without the Kickstarter delay you could have one on your wrist for Christmas. Sign up now at Marchand’s website*to find out when they are available. Prices start at £219 for the silver-cased three hander, with the chronographs coming in at £279. PVD black watches are £10 more.
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