Sternglas is a German watch brand that focuses on qualities that are traditionally associated with the German spirit: clarity and precision. In this sense, the brand takes a lot of its inspiration from the Bauhaus movement, which placed a lot of accent on functionality and minimalism and on trying to find a logical combination between the aesthetic and the functional side of any product.
Their new Topograph watch is based on this balance between functionality and aesthetics, being of course, in pure Bauhaus spirit on a minimal design. The clear design of the watch allows for a good focus on the details, making it very easy to read. With a 42 mm case, the Topograph is the largest piece to date offered by the Hamburg-based brand. The numbers are marked in a clear sans-serif font in a small size, but they are sharply printed and thus highly visible. Moreover, the contrast between the color of the dial and the numbers makes it very legible. Also, to make it a bit more special, the watch features numbers from 1 to 60 on the rehaut, which give the watch a special measuring tool feel – hence its name. The Topograph features a beautiful anti-reflective, domed sapphire crystal glass, designed for a strong anti-scratch resistance and the back is an exhibition back and reveals the automatic movement for those who enjoy getting deep in the mechanics and intricacies of watches. Inside the watch there is a MIYOTA 821A automatic movement, which is designed to be very robust and durable. The movement can also be charged through kinetic energy by simply wearing the watch. This is a really fun thing, as it makes you feel a part of the watch and creates a relationship between the wearer and the watch. In case you don’t wear all the time, you should not worry, as the watch has a 42-hour power reserve. The watch is also water-resistant and can be down to -50 meters / 164 feet underwater.
The case is made from brushed 316L stainless steel and measures 10 mm in height. The brushing on the sides is very fine and offers the watch a timeless feel. The strap is a 20 mm Milanese strap which can be changed in seconds without the use of any extra tools. Having a changeable strap is an advantage to any watch, as you can change the whole vibe of your timepiece easily. This is something that can be achieved especially with a minimal watch like the Sternglas Topograph, given that its minimal design makes it a very versatile piece, being appropriate for almost any place from the office to a dinner party or a fun and dynamic adventure. You can also order some extra straps from the Sternglas website, including some leather straps (all of which are handmade in Germany) in different colors, which can give your watch a whole different attitude. There is also a vintage-style strap, for those who want to take the watch’s historic inspiration to its full extent.
And, speaking of efficiency as a brand value, the date can be changed really easily and quickly too.
In terms of price, the Topograph is well worth its €329 / $366. It’s a very visible watch, which is great for those who like to be noticed and its features also make it a great conversation piece.
To conclude, it can be said that the Sternglas Topograph is a bold watch with a classic masculine feel and a coherent design language that makes a great companion for many settings. It’s definitely a good addition to anyone’s wardrobe (or collection) and above all, it is a clear style statement.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
Further reading:
New watches, timeless style: The Sternglas NAOS
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