PORSCHE DESIGN | Flat Six P’6340 Automatic Chronograph
Watch & Jewelry
March 3, 2015

PORSCHE DESIGN | Flat Six P’6340 Automatic Chronograph


PORSCHE DESIGN


FLAT SIX P’6340 AUTOMATIC CHRONOGRAPH


Text by OPENERS




The "Flat Six" series mechanical chronograph, which debuted as a model heavily incorporating the image of Porsche cars, is this "Flat Six P’6340 Automatic Chronograph." Like the "Flat Six P’6310 Automatic" released simultaneously in 2006, it is filled with design elements that evoke the image of Porsche cars, such as the engraving on the case side and the rotor design.

While the "P’6310 Automatic" features an extremely simple design, this model is equipped with a chronograph, so the dial has three subdials. Among these, the 30-minute counter at the 12 o'clock position and the 12-hour counter at the 6 o'clock position are enhanced in visibility by applying different colored ornaments to differentiate them from the small seconds. This kind of functional design is precisely what one would expect from Porsche Design.

Meanwhile, the small seconds at the 9 o'clock position are not displayed with a normal hand but by a triangular marker. This triangular marker is very conspicuous, allowing one to see at a glance whether the watch is operating.

The movement is the Cal. 7750, developed by the former Valjoux company and now manufactured by ETA. In addition to its proven reliability, it has been refined with unique finishing and has passed chronometer certification. Even as a chronograph alone, it is first-class, and with the addition of design elements, it boasts a finish worthy of a motorsport chronograph. Like other models, the dial colors are available in black, titanium, and red, allowing for personal choice. Similar to the "Flat Six P’6340 Automatic," this is a timepiece that Porsche fans should definitely acquire.

Automatic winding. 28,800 vibrations per hour. 46-hour power reserve. Case diameter 44.5mm. Case thickness 15.0mm. Stainless steel case. 120m water resistance. ¥409,500 (rubber strap), ¥430,500 (stainless steel bracelet).



BRAND HISTORY

Founded in 1972 by Ferdinand Alexander Porsche, grandson of the renowned Porsche founder. Ferdinand is also known for designing Porsche's legendary cars, the 911 and 904.

The company, which designs a wide range of products from eyewear to trams, adheres to a method of completely separating design and movement production for its watchmaking. In other words, they focus solely on design, without any involvement in the manufacturing of the movements.

Consequently, the history of the company's watches can be broadly divided into three periods based on the manufacturers responsible for movement production. The first era was when "Orfina" was in charge (1972-1980), during which military-style chronographs were predominant. They also introduced the world's first chronograph to feature titanium for its external parts.

Next, they partnered with "IWC" (1983-1994). While known for the 2000m water-resistant military diver's watch produced at the request of the former West German Navy, this model was developed in 1981, prior to the official partnership with IWC. Following the technical collaboration, they released the "Titanium Compass," which combined a watch and compass, and the "World Time Zone," which achieved high water resistance while incorporating an alarm function and world timer.

In 1998, they acquired the Swiss watchmaker "Eterna" as a subsidiary, establishing a new partnership. From 2003, they launched the "Dashboard" series, inspired by Porsche car bodies, fully realizing the brand's identity. In 2004, they unveiled the "Indicator," a unique and complex mechanical chronograph that displays measurement results on a digital counter, thrilling watch enthusiasts worldwide.

Due to its distinctive corporate structure, the brand may not be easily recognized by watch enthusiasts, but it undeniably continues to operate as a leader in the watch industry. Celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, further achievements are highly anticipated.

Founding Year: 1972
Place of Founding: Stuttgart, Germany
Main Series Names: Dashboard, Flat Six, Heritage
Contact: Japan Siebelhegner 03-5441-4515
Domestic Website: http://www.porsche-design-shop.jp