Back when I started to get seriously into watches, one of the models I’d consistently see on “affordable watches” lists was the Mondaine Stop2Go. It was and still is nothing quite like anything else out there. And while I, for some reason or another, never added one to the collection, I’ve always found it to be a fascinating piece and a watch that actually does qualify as real a conversation starter. We even reviewed one on the site recently back when news of the collection’s future seemed unclear. Now, Mondaine has updated the watches with a new crown-free design, available in a black or white dial, and with the option of a 41mm or 34mm case.
As some readers may know, the allure of the Mondaine Stop2Go comes from its minimalist design and its movement, which mimics the operation of Swiss railway clocks. Its red seconds hand actually makes its rotation around the dial in 58 seconds before pausing at 12 for 2 seconds, advancing to the next minute, and starting again. It’s what you’d observe with real-life Swiss railway clocks as they pause to synchronize to a master clock. Another key detail is that this quartz movement requires two different motors to operate; one for the seconds hand and one for the minute hand.
One of the more interesting features in this new generation of Mondaine Stop2Go is the crown-free design, which takes the design even closer to that of the watch’s railway counterparts. Now, there’s a small push-button for time adjustment. It might take some getting used to, but Mondaine provides a handy tool for the job. You have two sizes to choose from – the full-size version measures 41mm by 12mm thick, while the smaller one is 34mm with a slimmer profile at 11.5mm. Both sizes sport a clean white or black dial with a bold red seconds hand. The black dial version goes all-in on lume for its hour hands, while the white dial opts for Mondaine’s BackLight tech, which gives the hour and minute hands a cool green glow against the white backdrop.
Both models come with black vegan-friendly grape leather straps and stainless steel buckles. But if you go for the 41mm white dial version, you also have the option of a stainless steel bracelet with a Jubilee-style design and a handy double push-button clasp. Plus, these watches feature quick-release spring bars for easy strap swaps, and you can explore a world of third-party straps with their standard lugs.
Mondaine Stop2Go Specs
- Case Diameter: 41mm or 34mm
- Case Thickness: 11.5mm or 12mm
- Case Material: Stainless Steel
- Water Resistance: 30 Meters
- Movement: Stop2Go quartz movement
- Crystal: Sapphire
- Price: $645 – $695
I’m really stoked that Mondaine decided to refresh these watches. I know some people might find them gimmicky or too expensive, but the concept is just so entertaining and unique. I’m also glad there’s a little more sizing variety and I think this will help with the model’s overall popularity. Now we just have to get our hands on one of these new ones to bring you a full review. The crown-free operation is definitely intriguing. You can find out more about the new Mondaine Stop2Go models on the brand’s official site.
Co-Founder & Senior Editor
Michael Peñate is an American writer, photographer, and podcaster based in Seattle, Washington. His work typically focuses on the passage of time and the tools we use to connect with that very journey. From aviation to music and travel, his interests span a multitude of disciplines that often intersect with the world of watches – and the obsessive culture behind collecting them.