Vocalist Turns Restoration Expert, Now Focuses on Reviving Classic Watch Mechanics
In a departure from its usual innovative designs, Singer, the renowned Porsche tuner based in Southern California, has introduced the Heritage Collection. This new line of watches keeps things traditional, showcasing a unique blend of historical authenticity and mechanical purity.
The Heritage Collection watches are housed in a round, stainless steel case, measuring 38.8mm across and 11.75mm thick. The case is affixed to a grained black leather strap, adding to the traditional feel of these timepieces.
At the heart of the Heritage Collection lies the 1974 Valjoux 236 hand-wound chronograph movement. This movement, visible through an exhibition caseback, is a testament to Singer's commitment to preserving the past while infusing it with modern technology. The modified Valjoux 236 caliber has been refinished with frosted bridges, rhodium plating, and polished chamfers, and boasts a 48-hour power reserve and a 3-Hz beat rate.
The bicompax register layout of the Heritage Collection watches, with a date window at the 3, is complemented by the dial's hallmark orange-lumed skeletonized sword hands and a golden chapter ring with a fluted design. Interestingly, the Heritage Collection does not feature a bezel.
The Heritage Collection is available in two dial colors: olive green and black. Each watch is part of a limited edition series, with the specific models being SR601 and SR602, and is limited to 100 units in total. The suggested retail price of these watches is 16,700 CHF (~$18,931).
Singer's decision to focus on restoring old movements for the Heritage Collection aligns with the brand's roots in auto restoration. This practice of using untouched, never assembled vintage movements provides these watches with a unique charm that resonates with collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.
It's worth noting that Panerai, another notable watch brand, has also incorporated true NOS movements into its new watches. This practice of using untouched, vintage movements provides these brands with a unique blend of historical authenticity and mechanical purity, much like what Singer Reimagined demonstrates with their NOS movements.
The Heritage Collection watches are available for purchase on Singer's website and at trusted retailers. For those seeking a watch that combines tradition with modern technology, the Heritage Collection is a worthy consideration.
[1] Panerai's relaunch under CEO Angelo Bonati involved using 60 NOS Rolex movements originally produced in the 1940s for their classic Radiomir models
[2] This practice of using untouched, never assembled vintage movements provides these brands with a unique blend of historical authenticity and mechanical purity
[3] Several companies like Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, and Omega do have vintage watch restoration offerings with rare vintage parts
[4] In summary, beyond Singer Reimagined, Panerai is a prime example of another brand that incorporated true NOS movements into its new watches
- Panerai, under CEO Angelo Bonati, has revamped its offerings by using 60 NOS Rolex movements originally created in the 1940s for their classic Radiomir models, following the same path as Singer Reimagined in using untouched, never assembled vintage movements.
- This practice of using untouched, never assembled vintage movements offers a unique blend of historical authenticity and mechanical purity, as both Singer Reimagined and Panerai demonstrate with their NOS movements.
- Many companies, such as Rolex, Cartier, Patek Philippe, and Omega, also have vintage watch restoration services with rare vintage parts, showcasing an industry-wide appreciation for preserving the past while infusing it with modern technology.
- Beyond Singer Reimagined, Panerai is a prime example of another brand that has incorporated true NOS movements into its new watches, further demonstrating the growing trend within the automotive-inspired watch industry.
