Pinion, a prominent British independent watch manufacturer, is reintroducing one of its foundational designs, the Pure, to the modern market. Initially launched in 2014 with a 42mm case, the timepiece felt somewhat disproportionate given its minimalist dial. Responding to evolving design sensibilities and a shift away from larger watches, Pinion has meticulously reimagined the Pure, presenting it in a more balanced and comfortable 38mm diameter, complemented by an expanded palette of dial colors.
The updated Pinion Pure is available in two distinct case materials: stainless steel and bronze. The stainless steel variant boasts a sophisticated blend of brushed and polished finishes, with the upper lugs featuring circular graining and the bezel exhibiting a high polish. Conversely, the bronze case adopts a uniformly brushed finish, offering a more rugged aesthetic. Both versions are equipped with the manual-winding Sellita SW261-1 M movement. The absence of an automatic rotor contributes to a svelte 11mm case thickness, enhancing both comfort and visual harmony on the wrist. With a 45-hour power reserve, the watch encourages a ritual of daily engagement through manual winding. The stainless steel models come with classic black or vibrant orange dials, while the bronze versions offer choices of black or verdant green.
True to its name, the Pure's design prioritizes clarity and essential timekeeping. The dial layout is clean and intuitive, focusing on hours and minutes, with a dedicated sub-dial for small seconds. Distinctive numerals mark the 3, 9, and 12 o'clock positions, adding a unique character, while slender markers fill the remaining hours, excluding the 6 o'clock position. Each marker and numeral is treated with X1 Super-LumiNova, emitting a blue glow for improved legibility in low light. The recessed seconds register features a subtle concentric pattern, adding visual depth. This thoughtful design, coupled with the refined case size, results in a highly coherent aesthetic. However, the absence of a minute track may necessitate careful alignment of the minute hand for precise time setting.
The rear of the watch features a sapphire caseback, through which an artistic skeletal hand, created by British artist Keisha Karlsen, is visible. This illustration points towards the intricate balance spring of the movement, serving as a symbolic representation of Pinion founder Piers Berry's meticulous involvement in every stage of the watch's creation, from design to assembly and regulation. This hands-on approach is a hallmark of Pinion's identity. Each Pure timepiece is produced in limited batches, emphasizing its exclusivity. The watch also offers practical features, including 100 meters of water resistance, secured by a push-down crown and double seal, and is fitted with a leather strap featuring quick-release spring bars for effortless interchangeability. Priced at £1,350, the Pinion Pure is exclusively available for purchase on the brand's official website.
