Delma currently produces three versions of the Klondike, with the Klondike Moonphase being the most complex of them (the others are more simple chronograph models). Within the Klondike Moonphase, Delma produces six different versions – both on straps or mostly on the pictured steel metal bracelet. Delma also offers two dial colors (black and silver) as well as some models which have elements of the steel case and bracelet in a PVD-coated yellow gold tone.
I prefer this black dial version of the Klondike Moonphase for its acceptable level of legibility. I’ll admit that I haven’t seen the silver-dial models hands-on, but given that the dial and hands are of a very similar color and texture, I believe legibility would suffer as a result.
Delma puts luminant on the hour and minute hands along with four hour markers, but the rest of the dial is a bit more “classic” in its execution. Proportions are decent (though the hands should be a bit longer) and the look is attractive, but what fails to really capture my attention is the lack of any serious originality. What can often come with a “timeless look” is a “generic look,” or rather one that borrows from too many known sources.
The hour markers look directly inspired by those on the IWC Portugieser, and while the dial isn’t emulating a specific known design, it feels very familiar. Delma uses a rather standard looking case design, though you see a small bit of creative originality in the bracelet. For example, the models on the bracelet in the gold tone have the outer links colored in gold as well. Also, the inner links are bisected to create enhanced visual interest, though the result might be just a bit off.
One reason is because the vertical depression that goes down the bracelet through the center links doesn’t add any real functional value. The thick cut is meant to create the optical illusion that the middle link is cut in half, but in reality it doesn’t really appear that way. I think Delma would have been a bit wiser to actually go a step further and make this a true four link bracelet. When it comes to high-end goods, I don’t want to see optical illusions to make them appear more complicated. I would simply prefer for the watch I own to be that complicated or at least intricate.
On the wrist this Delma Klondike Moonphase ref. 41701.680.6.032 appears substantial, but isn’t too large for most wrists unless you are very sensitive to heavy watches. According to Delma, this watch weighs in at 220 grams. At 44mm wide and 14.8mm thick, this makes for something statistically larger than most watches in this style. Thus, to enjoy this watch the most you need to first like the size and style, then love the movement. If you get that far, you’ll realize that Delma is charging about the same amount of money as some Longines watches that feature the same Valjoux 7751 automatic movement. That’s not a bad thing, and Longines is clearly a brand that a company like Delma is competing with. Many people with more of an interest in contemporary design who still want something subdued could easily find more to enjoy in a Delma Klondike than in a similar Longines watch or other products. It’s just a matter of taste, and when you consider the brands Delma is positioned to complete with, the designs make a lot more sense.
I’m not at the point in my life anymore when I would have been all over something like the Delma Klondike Moonphase. It is a very decent watch, but best suited for those who are actively looking for something with a 7751 movement in it, and who also want something with this style in a larger package. That is a lot of younger guys, and it is good that Delma is there for them. With that said, mature watch collectors with established collections might not find enough originality in the Klondike Moonphase to persuade them to get one. Price for the Delma Klondike Moonphase reference 41701.680.6.032 watch is €3,550. delma.ch
Necessary Data
>Brand: Delma
>Model: Klondike Moonphase (reference 41701.680.6.032 as tested).
>Price: 3,550 Euros
>Size: 44mm wide
>Would reviewer personally wear it: Yes, in my early to late 20s, or if I had a lot less watches to currently select from.
>Friend we’d recommend it to first: Someone with larger watch size tastes who still wants a classic looking mechanical watch with a Valjoux 7751 movement inside of it.
>Best characteristic of watch: Effectively makes a large-sized dress watch with the appeal of a classic watch. Nice execution of the Valjoux 7751 movement. Not too high in price.
>Worst characteristic of watch: Bracelet design isn’t as refined and compelling as other parts of the watch. Large size will limit the wrists this watch will look best on. Overall design is pleasant, but lacks any real originality or serious character.
