MECHANICALS
JUNGHANS
THE JUNGHANS MEISTER CHRONOSCOPE EXUDES ELEGANCE
This latest example of the already impressive Junghans Meister Chronoscope might just be the collection ’ s most handsome . Its 40.7mm diameter case size fits perfectly on most wrists while its curved convex crystal , slim markers and clean dial design make for an easy-to-read chronograph that trades sportiness for style .
The retro-styled Meister Chronoscope , which alongside the Junghans Max Bill Chronoscope variation has been a long-time favorite at the About Time office , rightly claims the ‘ Meister ’ designation , which German-based Junghans places only its high-end lines . Those familiar with the brand may be aware that it debuted its first Meister collections in the 1930s . By 1956 the company was the third-largest producer of chronometers in the world , and in 1957 Junghans debuted its first automatic chronometer ( Calibre J83 ), a movement still in demand among collectors .
This latest Junghans Meister Chronoscope exudes elegance with a rich dark blue color both on its sunray dial and its luxurious alligator leather strap . The blue plays nicely off the PVD-coated gold steel case , while gold-hued hands and four primary indexes underscore the watch ’ s dressy appeal .
Inside Junghans applies its nicely re-finished J880.1 , an automatic chronograph caliber based on the reliable ETA Valjoux 7750 . A mineral crystal on the caseback allows a clear view of the rhodium-plated , striped finishing on the caliber .
Junghans notes that the owner can request a sapphire crystal to replace the shaped plexiglass version supplied to protect the dial on this watch . However , given the extra effort Junghans expends to source its plexiglass and its coating , I ’ m not certain many take the offer . Junghans says for its crystals it uses a Sicralan MRL UV coating method originally developed for suppliers to the automotive industry . The clear coating results in increased scratch resistance , improved resistance to ultraviolet light and chemicals , all while adding an intense , deep gloss to the plexiglass . Price : $ 2,095 .
14 | AboutTime Magazine