The new MeisterSinger 24H Enamel Edition

MeisterSinger is famous for its portfolio of single-handed watches, and the latest 24H Enamel Edition is no exception, but a white enamel dial, single revolution every 24 hours and the ability to moonlight as a compass helps it really stand out. The philosophy of the brand is to slow down a bit and appreciate time at a more leisurely pace, not burdened by precise minutes and seconds. The 24-hour dial layout really hammers that point home, displaying an accurate yet approximate time via the single hand between 24 Arabic numerals. It’s limited to just 25 pieces, so it makes a great collector’s piece as well.

The stainless steel case is simple and classic MeisterSinger at 40mm in diameter with 50 metres of water resistance. A sapphire crystal protects the dial and there’s an exhibition case back secured with six screws, and the edition number is engraved on the case back’s steel perimeter. An oversized conical-shaped crown makes winding and setting the time easy, with the latter achieved by simply rotating the hand to the correct number (or thereabouts). The watch is fitted with a nice cognac leather strap with egg dyeing and tan stitching.

The dial is the focal point as it’s white enamel via a powdered glass mixture fired at around 800°C multiple times. It’s a labour-intensive and risky process as cracking and other flaws are common during the process, so failure rates are high, with many dials being rejected during production. It’s not uncommon for brands or artisans to have a rejection rate of 30% or higher. The result, however, if nailed, is a glassy, deep finish that’s nigh impossible to replicate with other methods.

There are 24 Arabic numerals, starting with 12 at 12 o’clock that goes to 24 at 6 o’clock. The left side then counts from 01 to 12 at the top. A single heat-blued hand again sweeps once every 24 hours, which is a historic “365” style. A detailed blue and black track spans the outermost perimeter. In addition, there are four compass marks: S (south) at 12, W (west) at 18, N (north) at 24 and O (east) at 06. Keeping the watch parallel to the ground and pointing the hand towards the sun will provide an accurate reference for direction.

Powering the MeisterSinger 24H Enamel Edition is a Sellita SW330 automatic (an ETA 2892-A2 alternative) with 25 jewels, 28,800vph (4Hz) and a 42-hour power reserve. Functions are limited to a single hour hand sweeping over the dial once every 24 hours. The MeisterSinger 24H Enamel Edition is again limited to just 25 pieces and retails for EUR 5,490 (incl. 19% VAT). For more information, please visit MeisterSinger’s website.