WATCH & JEWELRY /
SIHH＆BASEL
March 30, 2015
Glashütte ORIGINAL | The highly anticipated simple and bracelet models have finally arrived
Glashütte ORIGINAL | Glashütte Original
A Nostalgic and Comforting 1970s Vibe
The Highly Anticipated Simple & Bracelet Model Has Finally Arrived
Highly regarded by watch enthusiasts as a manufacture brand inheriting the tradition of Glashütte watchmaking, the esteemed brand has, following its popular 1960s designs, unveiled a simple model with a 1970s aesthetic this year. What's more, it's a bracelet model that can be worn every day.
Reporting and Writing: Yasuhito Shibuya
A True Representative of Glashütte Watchmaking
Currently under the Swatch Group, Glashütte Original is one of the precious watch brands that carries on the glory of German watchmaking, which flourished in the mountain village of Glashütte near Dresden from the 19th century, with roots in the court watches of the Kingdom of Saxony. After World War II, in 1951, the seven watch manufacturers in Glashütte were merged and nationalized under the communist regime of East Germany, becoming the state-owned Glashütte Watch Company (commonly known as GUB). This company was privatized and transformed into a joint-stock company following German reunification in 1990. The current Glashütte Original restarted in 1994, inheriting this history and assets.
The companyTourbillonoffers a wide product lineup, from complications such as tourbillons and perpetual calendars to simple watches and ladies' watches, and is a manufacture that produces approximately 97% of its components in-house. Its proud in-house movements feature the Glashütte stripe finish on the 3/4 plate (unlike typical Swiss mechanical movements, most of the base plate is not cut away, providing superior mechanical rigidity) and a swan neck regulator that allows for precise adjustment and is aesthetically pleasing. The exterior design is also distinctive, with off-center placement of sub-dials and hands based on tradition. It possesses a unique charm not found in Swiss watches.
The New Collection's Theme: "20th Century Vintage"
The new models announced at Baselworld 2011 are themed around "20th Century Vintage." Continuing from last year, the "Sixties" collection, which inherits the basic design of the simple models from the 1960s, now features a tourbillon model with a Panorama Date (Big Date) and a Panorama Date model. Additionally, the "Senator" collection of three-hand watches has introduced automatic models with simple, classic designs and a perpetual calendar model with a moon phase. The "Navigator Worldview" model, equipped with a rotating inner bezel indicating a second time zone, is also a must-see for military watch enthusiasts.
And what we most recommend to OPENERS readers is the simple new watch "Seventies Panorama Date" with a 1970s-inspired TV screen-shaped dial and a Panorama Date (Big Date). This neo-vintage model skillfully revives the taste of wristwatches from that era, with its galvanic finish dial (where light radiates from the center outwards) and applied wedge-shaped hour indices. Of course, the case features a see-through back, allowing you to admire the beautiful in-house automatic movement, the brand's greatest appeal.
We would like those who want to enjoy the charm of German watches daily, and discerning collectors who have savored the world of Swiss watches, to wear this subtly.
Seventies Panorama Date
A Simple Model with a 1970s Vibe, Offering the Essence of German Watchmaking
This "neo-vintage watch" combines a square case with softened edges, exuding a 1970s feel, a retro-style simple dial, and the brand's signature manufacture (fully in-house) movement. It is also the first metal bracelet model in the Glashütte Original lineup, suitable for daily wear even in Japan's humid climate. Through the see-through case back, one can admire the "Caliber 39-47" mechanism as it ticks away, featuring meticulously chamfered and polished components, the 3/4 plate design, and an automatic rotor set with a 21-carat gold weight.
Automatic, 40x40mm stainless steel case & bracelet, see-through back, 10 ATM water resistance, 1,197,000 yen (preliminary price). Scheduled for release in August.
Swatch Group Japan Glashütte Original Division
Tel. 03-6254-7160
http://www.glashuette-original.com/ (German, English, Russian, Chinese)