Roadmaster Perseverer Black Ref. NM9050C-S1-BK

In 1891, about 40 miles west of Cleveland, a fast mail train collided with a passenger train. This accident later became known as the Great Kipton Train Wreck. The cause of the accident? The passenger train's conductor's watch had stopped functioning for a mere 4 minutes before restarting.
 
After that collision, renowned jeweller Webb C. Ball was appointed Chief Time Inspector to investigate the accident's timekeeping issues. Ball then formulated a new timekeeping system for the railroad industry, revolutionising timekeeping (in the industry) and thus making train travel significantly safer for both passengers and employees. The watches that employees used were certified and issued by Ball, which led to the birth of the legendary company known today as Ball Watch Co.

Ball Roadmaster Perseverer Black Ref. NM9050C-S1-BK

Ball watches are renowned for their precision, robustness, and durability. This new Roadmaster Perserverer 40mm Black continues to uphold Ball's official railroad standards. With a wearable 40mm diameter, the watch has a thickness of 12mm and a lug-to-lug of only 44.5mm. This set of dimensions helps ensure the timepiece will sit nicely on the wrist and is suitable for almost all wrist sizes. With a screwed-in crown, it boasts a 100m water resistance.
 
"The Roadmaster Perseverer features a robust 904L stainless steel case, predominantly brushed with polished accents on the bezel and bevels for a striking contrast. This steel has been used primarily by the big "R" company for decades. 904L stainless steel is unlike any other steel. Due to its extra amounts of chromium, molybdenum, nickel and copper, 904L steel features superior resistance to corrosion, rust and acids. While its unique hardness allows it to withstand extreme conditions, it requires special machinery and production processes to be shaped, which is why it is not as commonly used. Visually, 904L stainless steel has an exceptionally high polish compared to 316L steel and ages exquisitely well.

Automatic BALL Manufacture caliber RRM7309-C, Chronometer certified COSC

Moving on to the dial, the new Roadmaster Perseverer features a classic and versatile black surface adorned with horizontal stripe texturing. This refined pattern creates a striking contrast against the luminescent elements, enhancing both aesthetics and legibility. A date magnifier at 3 o'clock ensures the date is easy to read. The dial is equipped with 12 indices, each fitted with micro gas tubes —11 are thick and prominent, while one small tube sits next to the date magnifier. This thoughtful design ensures the tubes fill the dial beautifully, enhancing legibility, especially in low-light conditions, while the glow from the tritium tubes offers a steady, easy-to-read display in the dark. Of these, 11 tubes illuminate in green, providing a steady, vibrant glow in the dark. The 12 o'clock index is uniquely highlighted with a yellow gas tube, adding both a functional and aesthetic touch, as it serves as a clear visual marker to quickly orient the watch. The dauphine hands also glow green as ensuring time keeping capabilities in the dark. Couple this with their signature seconds hand with Ball's "RR" symbol as a counterweight on the other end. Topping things off for the dial, the Roadmaster Perseverer has a flat sapphire crystal with an anti-reflective coating underneath.
 
Powering the Ball Watch Roadmaster Perseverer is the calibre BALL RR1103. This movement is based on either the ETA 2824-2 or Selita SW200-1 movement. It has 25/26 jewels, beats at 28,800 BPH and has a power reserve of roughly 38 hours. The movement is a workhorse that has been used by many watchmakers and will ensure accurate and reliable timekeeping.

16 micro gas tubes on hour, minute and second hands and dial for night reading capability

The new Roadmaster's 904L integrated steel bracelet runs alongside the show's star and is done with a nice mixture of polished and satin-brushed finishing. It further features a butterfly clasp system, making the bracelet appear more streamlined when worn.
 
In short, the Ball Roadmaster Perseverer Black is certainly for someone who appreciates fine watchmaking that packs reliability and value from a respected watch company. The use of the premium 904L stainless steel gives the watch an exceptional glow while making it tougher and more corrosion resistant at the same time. The watch exhibits exceptional value given that it has a 28,800bph in-house movement. The classic black dial, mesmerising self-illuminating green and yellow tritium tubes, and exceptional case finishing make the Roadmaster high up in the value-for-money chart. We cannot find a reason to not like this watch.

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