*Unpolished* Porsche Design Military Chronograph PVD (Ref. 7177)

Founded in 1972, Porsche Design brought the functional aesthetic of automotive design to the wrist, partnering with Swiss manufacturer Orfina to produce its earliest watches. The resulting chronographs have earned a devoted following for their distinctive styling, motorsport connections, and memorable appearances on the silver screen. Among them, the black PVD models remain the quintessential expression of Porsche Design’s original vision.

With its black dial, contrasting markings, and purposeful case design, the Military Chronograph ref. 7177 channels the clear, instrument-driven layout of a period Porsche 911 dashboard. The distinctive red “3H” marking denotes hydrogen-3, better known as tritium, used for the watch’s luminous material. Beneath that utilitarian exterior is the robust automatic Lemania cal. 5100, a movement whose durability and readily legible chronograph display made it particularly well suited to military applications. These qualities helped establish the broader Porsche Design military chronograph family as a trusted tool among armed forces and civilian enthusiasts alike.

This unpolished example offers an especially compelling expression of the ref. 7177, preserving the case’s original lines and the purposeful character that defines these early Porsche Design watches. Combining automotive influence, military functionality, and an unmistakable presence on the wrist, it represents a distinctive chapter in the evolution of the modern tool chronograph.