Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Which came first - Glashütte or Prim?



In 2007, Glashütte Original presented what would turn out to be the first in a line of "Sixties" models (with a square-cased tourbillon featuring in 2011's line-up) based on an almost identical design that they’d produced in, of course, the 1960s. The modern version was released in either a silver or black dial, and rose gold or stainless steel models.

This one is Reference 39-52-04-02-04


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS :

Case: Stainless steel
Size : 39 mm 
Crystal : domed sapphire
Dial : Arabic numerals and applied indices
Calibre : Automatic GO 39-52. 25 jewels, 28,800vph
Power reserve : 40 hours
Water resistance : 30m


This was one of those watches that, when its release was announced, I was convinced that I’d love, especially the silver dial version. Interestingly, my enthusiasm wasn’t anywhere near as great by the time I saw one in the flesh, the silver left me somewhat ambivalent.

The black one, to my mind, is more eye-catching, looks more elegant, and the dial feels as though it has more depth to it than its lighter sibling. In the flesh, they are very discreet classic looking watches and at 39mm, a comfortable size for both men and women (this one belongs to a woman).


You'll notice that this 1960s PRIM I have is more than a little similar to the silver dialled version. It makes me wonder how many other brands did a similar design in the ‘60s. Does anyone know of any others?



[AP]

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