Singer Reimagined presented one of the most pretty classic market chronographs a few months ago. Classic because it is a watch with the content diameter (38.8mm), with a uni-compax dial and animated by a Valjoux 236 caliber. By reading these characteristics, one has the impression of going back a few decades and yet this chronograph, which bears the official name of Singer Reimagined Heritage Chronograph, shows a lot of modernity. This is the reason why I find it successful: it is not a nth neo-retro exercise but rather an original approach which highlights the aesthetic codes of Singer Reimagined.
How can we guess if a brand has found its identity? Quite simply if we are able to recognize it by hiding the logo of a watch that it has designed. And this is the case with the Heritage Chronograph. The design of the needles, the colors used in the two versions, the shape of the pushes, the fluted rang, the typography of the figures, everything recalls the refined, technical and elegant atmosphere of Singer Reimagined.
This chronograph is marketed as part of a limited series of 100 pieces and available in two dial colors: Black piano or Green Empire. I have a preference for this second color, more original and softer in my eyes. The quality of the execution is impeccable and the dial does not lack depth or relief thanks to the undercadrans withdrawn, the applied indexes and the golden inclined. The small odds of the dial is at the level of the minutes of the minutes which is not entirely graduated. However, when it comes to a 30 -minute counter, our brain is able to determine the number of minutes sold thanks to the 5 -minute markers.
Beyond the design which finds a perfect balance between the classic presentation of the dial and the assertive modernity of Singer Reimagined, the highlight of the show lies in the use of a caliber from the 70s with manual reassembly: the Valjoux 236. The latter is an evolution of Valjoux 23 but with a frequency of 3Hz. Its power reserve is 48 hours. This caliber was restored and decorated by the Singer Reimagined teams and the result is consistent with what we can observe on the dial side. The classic dial architecture is underlined and key elements such as the column wheel and the chronograph bridge are highlighted. And there is the decorative, more contemporary style whose sobriety allows you to appreciate the quality of the decorations. There is nothing superfluous, nothing demonstrative. Everything is treated and I appreciate the brushed finish of the bridges. The subtle contrast with the polished screws gives a very pleasant dynamic touch to the eye. In any case, I always have a weakness for these classic chronographs with manual reassembly because I find that they are among the most beautiful movements.
The Heritage Chronograph is in any case with pleasure. Its size is perfect for me, the dial is well balanced thanks to the rehabetting and the play of colors has its effect. The brand logo is superb. The steel case alternates satin and polished finishes which brings it sophistication. The watch is well maintained on the wrist thanks to the flexible grained leather bracelet. The work of restoration of the movement also has an impact on the use since the reassembly is easy and the triggering of pleasant pushes. However, it remains a movement of half a century ago and it requires a little more delicate manipulation than a recent movement.
I really liked this watch which in addition to its aesthetic success and its overall coherence has the immense virtue of being the most accessible model of Singer Reimagined. Its price is indeed set at 21,100 euros including tax. Admittedly, the movement is not of the same level as the AGENPRAPH but the Heritage Chronograph makes it possible to enter the universe of Singer Reimagined with an attractive watch offered at a reasonable rate given the exclusivity of the brand.
Thank you to the time -consuming team for the presentation.