Damasko DC86/2 Review - An Uncompromising Chronograph

As watch enthusiasts, we tend to obsess over specs, marketing jargon and manufacturer promises. It’s easy to get lost in the numbers, but the real test of a watch happens outside the spec sheet – in a world where conditions are unpredictable and reliability isn’t just a feature, it’s a necessity. That’s why I took the Damasko DC86/2 on a December hike through the Polish mountains. On paper, it’s an aviation-inspired chronograph built for extreme conditions. The question is, can it live up to that reputation on the wrist?

First impressions: made for off-road driving

The plan was simple: hike to the summit of Klimczok from Szczyrk, a route that, while not the highest (1,117m), offers steep, forested climbs that can quickly become demanding. The perfect testing ground for a watch designed to handle the terrain.

The matte, hardened steel case exudes a discreet, tactical vibe—without drawing attention to itself. Unlike traditional stainless steel, Damasko’s patented hardening process ensures that the case is not only scratch-resistant on the surface—it’s hardened throughout, making it incredibly resistant to dents and everyday wear and tear. This isn’t the kind of watch you don’t wear. A few accidental knocks on my camera gear? Nothing. A slap on the steel buckles of a backpack? Not even the tiniest scratch. If you’re used to watching your watch collect micro-scratches from a visit to the office, this one is a welcome change.

Readability first: a chronograph that keeps it simple

During the trek, the DC86/2 proved that Damasko understands legibility better than most manufacturers. The matte black dial, crisp white indexes, and high-contrast hands ensured that the time was always easy to read, even in changing lighting conditions. The double-coated anti-reflective sapphire crystal helped, although I bet the watch would be just as legible without the anti-reflective coating.

What really stood out was the layout of the chronograph. Most chronographs can feel crowded, especially when you’re on the move. Not so here. Damasko’s decision to use a central chronograph minute counter instead of the usual sub-dial layout is brilliant in my opinion. The layout is intuitive, easy to read at a glance, and once you’ve used it, it feels like a throwback to a traditional Valjoux 7750-style chronograph.

Mechanism and Engineering: Thinking Long-Term

Under the hood, the DC86/2 runs on the in-house Damasko C51-6 movement, a heavily modified version of the Valjoux 7750, where the idea for the chronograph layout was taken from the legendary Lemania 5100. So this isn’t another ETA 7750 clone with a modified rotor – it’s a fully-fledged design that focuses on solidity and functionality. The 50-hour power reserve is a nice touch, and when it comes to accuracy, my test model was accurate to +3 seconds per day – very solid for a mechanical chronograph.

Water resistance is 100 meters – enough for everyday wear, even in unpredictable conditions. But what sets Damasko apart is its lubricant-free screw-down crown system, which ensures the watch will maintain its factory specifications for decades. It’s an over-engineered solution that seems unnecessary until you realize that most watches lose water resistance over time. No worries here.

On your wrist: Surprisingly versatile

With a case diameter of 42 mm and a thickness of 13.8 mm, the DC86/2 may seem large. But thanks to the short, well-shaped lugs, it wears exceptionally well - even on my modest wrist. It is more substantial than, for example, the Omega Speedmaster, but it is far from being unwieldy.

The included strap—in my case, black leather—kept the watch secure and comfortable throughout the hike. Would I have preferred a bracelet? Maybe. But honestly, on a toolwatch like this, any strap, including a NATO, just feels right.

Summary: Is the DC86/2 the perfect adventure chronograph?

Ultimately I didn't manage to reach the summit - the weather conditions changed so much that I decided to warm myself up in the shelter with soup and descend safely. For DC86/2 this could really be the beginning of a great expedition. He accepted everything that had happened to him up to that point and didn't catch a breath.

This watch isn't trying to be a Speedmaster , a Daytona or a traditional pilot's chronograph - it's something completely unique. It takes the best of German engineering and distills it into a chronograph that's as legible as a cockpit clock, as strong as ship's steel and as practically designed as possible.

Would I choose it over the competition from Sinn or IWC ? Absolutely. It's built from better materials, has a better dial layout, and feels like it could last my entire life. The Damasko may not have the same name recognition as the big brands, but in terms of durability and functionality, it's one of the best chronographs on the market.

Would I change anything about it? Maybe I would make it a hair thinner. But honestly, that's just nitpicking. The Damasko DC86/2 is a serious choice for people who actually use their watches - and in this category it's hard to beat.