Lebois & Co Baton ChronographvsKUOE Royal Smith 90-012

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Measurements
Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Baton Chronograph

Royal Smith 90-012
Diameter
39mm
37mm
Lug-to-Lug
47.4mm
44mm
lowest
Thickness
13.9mm
lowest
14.3mm
Water Resistance
50m
50m
Power Reserve
60h
highest
45h
MSRP
$3,813
n/a
Movement
LC-450
Seiko NE86
Case
3 specsCrystal & Dial
3 specsMovement
3 specsPricing
1 specsReviews
Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.
The Lebois & Co Baton Chronograph 324.478 is widely praised for its excellent value and exceptional case finishing for its price point, with specific call-outs for its stepped bezel and lug design. Owners and reviewers highlight the pleasing proportions of the 39mm case and the vintage charm derived from its domed sapphire crystal and salmon dial with applied gold indices and blued hands. The manual-wind chronograph pushers are described as pleasurable to operate, and the movement is noted for its smooth operation and decoration, including a blued column wheel. Some owners find the 39mm case size slightly small for a chronograph, and one reviewer noted potential legibility issues with the telemeter scale on the dial, though this was slated for pre-production correction. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Lebois & Co Baton Chronograph 324.478 highly for its vintage aesthetics and impressive finishing at its price point.
Owners widely praise the KUOE ROYAL SMITH 90-012 for its elegant 37mm size and symmetrical bicompax layout, with the salmon dial described as a "copper" hue. The chronograph pushers are noted as firm and crisp with a satisfying reset, and the included leather strap is considered high-quality. Some find the 14.3mm thickness chunky for the 37mm case, impacting wearability, and the date window is considered difficult to read due to its small size and deep setting. The TMI NE86A movement has an accuracy of +25/-15 seconds per day and a 45-hour power reserve. On balance, owners and reviewers appreciate the KUOE ROYAL SMITH 90-012 for its retro charm and build quality, with the dial and chronograph functions being particular highlights.
The high-level automatic mechanical chronograph movement is a significant strength. The case thickness is noted as a point of discussion.
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